What is this Study about?

This study will uncover how bilingualism supports healthy cognitive aging by examining the influence of different language experiences on the timing and location of brain network activity. We will examine the timing of brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG; i.e., recordings of electrical brain activity) and the location of brain activity using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; i.e., images of activity in different parts of the brain). Different language experience factors will additionally be explored. By measuring multiple factors (e.g., the age of second language learning, language proficiency) the effect(s) of different language experiences on the brain and cognition will become clearer.

What is this Study about?

This research study examines how online search result accuracy affects people's evaluation of medical treatments, focusing on older adults with potential digital literacy challenges. Using eye-tracking, screen logging, think-aloud protocols, and interviews, the study explores how search accuracy influences judgment. The goal is to optimize trustworthy health websites and create user-friendly interfaces, enhancing health information literacy among older adults. By analyzing attention patterns, thought processes, and search result interactions, researchers aim to understand how older adults make health-related judgments online. This will inform development of search engines better suited for older adults seeking health information.

What is this Study about?

The goal of the first study of my PhD is to confirm if the results of the recent scoping review by O'Neil, Fletcher & Bryden are consistent with the lived experiences of caregivers/care partners and community program providers with respect to physical activity and/or social support.

Implications for this research include:

~ Provide information regarding the effects of physical activity and social support on the health of dementia caregivers/care partners

~ Serve as the foundation for the development of future resources to help sustain the health and well-being of this population.

The findings from this study will be collated into various research papers, presentations and posters. Further, the results will be used to help guide the direction of the primary researchers other projects within her PhD.

What is this Study about?

Early detection of brain changes is crucial to prevent cognitive decline and dementia. This study uses electroencephalography (EEG) to record the brain's electrical signals during simple tasks, with the hope of validating a measure that can improve early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.

We are recruiting 150 individuals with mild memory issues and mild dementia at Baycrest in Toronto and Bruyère in Ottawa. In a separate study we are also recruiting older adults with no memory problems. The results of both studies together will help us determine if our new EEG measure can detect abnormal changes in brain health early on and if it can help predict future cognitive changes. We hope that this new test will be used in the clinic to identify individuals who may benefit the most from early treatment and interventions.

What is this Study about?

The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of receiving a dementia diagnosis in northwestern Ontario healthcare systems in order to improve the diagnosis process for others who may be diagnosed in the future, and physicians/health care providers who diagnose people with dementia.

What is this Study about?

This study is looking for caregivers to take part in a six-week creative movement group program, which aims to improve mental well-being and resilience.

What is this Study about?

This study aims to understand the needs and experiences of caregivers in managing medications for people living with dementia (PLWD) to enhance future resources. In stage one, caregivers of PLWD will be interviewed to gain insights into their needs and preferences for resources. In stage two, healthcare providers from various backgrounds and settings will be interviewed to understand how they support medication management for PLWD.

By understanding caregivers' experiences and needs in medication management, this study strives to contribute to the development of improved resources for caregivers. Ultimately, improving medication management practices has the potential to enhance the quality of life and health outcomes for both PLWD and their caregivers. By empowering caregivers with effective tools and resources, we contribute not only to the well-being of individual caregivers and care recipients but also to the broader societal goal of fostering a supportive and sustainable healthcare system for those affected by dementia.

What is this Study about?

The Nighttime Insomnia Treatment and Education for Canadians with Alzheimer’s Disease (NITE-CAD) team is lifestyle intervention program to support care partners in helping improve sleep in people living with dementia. This program is based on an American program that has been modified to meet the needs of Canadians. The NITE-CAD program takes place over 6-weeks and consists of 1) education and goal setting, 2) self-directed physical activity, and 3) bright light exposure. This study is to help ensure the NITE-CAD program is feasible for future offerings.

What is this Study about?

Alert systems such as United States’ Silver Alert and Scotland’s Purple Alert support first responders in locating missing persons with dementia. In Canada, provinces are responsible for Silver Alerts. To date, Alberta and Manitoba amended Missing Persons Acts, but have no Silver Alerts. British Columbia has a citizen-led Silver Alert, yet no provincial legislation. This study examines how policies and programs for alert systems are developed and implemented in Canada, Scotland, and the United States. Findings will inform policies and implementation of alert systems to optimize the safety and well-being of people living with dementia at risk of going missing.