Grant: CIHR Café Scientifique Program

In just the last 100 years, the life expectancy in industrial countries such as Europe and North America has increased by more than 50%. Despite this piece of good news, and the advancements in science and technology, we have not yet found an effective strategy to delay substantially the steady rise of many debilitating chronic diseases that accompany aging. As we age we are increasingly prone to cancer, heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer's. Due to this fact, Canadian policy makers are focusing on promoting the concept of "healthy aging" among the general population. Healthy aging is described as a lifelong process of maximizing opportunities for maintaining and preserving health, physical and mental well-being, independence and quality of life. The purpose of this proposal is to familiarize the public with the process of aging, the old age diseases and related preventative measures that could be taken to improve the quality of life of the seniors and currently aging population. Through a series of discussions, multiple panels of experts will share their opinion covering topics such as the science of aging, the mechanisms of aging diseases and the preventative measures that could be taken in order to slow down the process of "getting old".