Promoting Healthy Cognitive Aging

Promoting Healthy Cognitive Aging Overview:

We now recognize the importance of lifestyle behaviours in promoting healthy cognitive aging and preventing dementia. However, less is known about the impact of lifestyle interventions, such as physical activity, on cognitive outcomes in those at risk for dementia, such as those with mild cognitive impairment and cerebrovascular disease.

In this online course, we highlight past and recent research from the Aging, Mobility, and Cognitive Neuroscience Lab at the University of British Columbia that focus on increasing our understanding of how we can promote cognitive health in at-risk older adults.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

1. Summarize the current research findings regarding the effect of exercise on cognition.
2. Identify factors that moderate the effect of exercise on cognition.
3. Summarize the relationship between cognitive function and mobility.

Presenter Information:

Dr. Teresa Liu-Ambrose, PhD, PT, Professor, is a physical therapist and a Canada Research Chair at the University of British Columbia, Department of Physical Therapy. She directs the Aging, Mobility and Cognitive Health Laboratory, as well as the Vancouver General Hospital’s Falls Prevention Clinic.

Dr. Liu-Ambrose’s research focuses on understanding the role of exercise in promoting cognitive and mobility outcomes in older adults. Her research expertise is in randomized controlled trials, exercise prescription for older adults, cognitive neuroscience, and mobility aging. Her research findings have been implemented into clinical practice, community programs, and influenced international practice guidelines to promote healthy aging.