Active Living for Healthy Brains: A Community Engagement Event (2 Days)

Day 1: April 19, 2016 - Impact of Exercise on Brain Health and Cognition in Older Adults
Location: Clara Christie Theatre, Cumming School of Medicine

Objective
To review the latest expert opinions and research findings on the beneficial effects of exercise and physical activity on brain health (cerebrovascular outcomes), sleep, and cognitive performance in older adults.

Topics Covered
Includes impact of physical activity on vascular reactivity, vascular biomarkers, and brain structure & function using neuroimaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Identification of knowledge gaps about the mechanisms underlying the pro-cognitive effects of exercise by examining potential factors such as the required exercise “dose” and type and the potential modifying effects of sleep quality, genetic variation, cognitive stimulation, socialization, and a healthy lifestyle.

Format
The day will include a series of topic-specific seminars, a keynote talk followed by an expert panel discussion on the role of exercise in delaying and/or preventing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Target Audience
Researchers, clinician scientists, and trainees.

Keynote Speaker: Kirk Erickson, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA

Confirmed Speakers:

• Louis Collins, McGill University, Montreal Quebec, Canada
• Bruce Pike, University of Calgary, Calgary Alberta, Canada
• Gail Eskes, Dalhousie University, Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
• David Hogan, University of Calgary, Calgary Alberta, Canada
• Erin Mazerolle, University of Calgary, Calgary Alberta, Canada
• Ronald Sigal, University of Calgary, Calgary Alberta, Canada
  
  

Day 2: April 20, 2016 - Active Living Forum: A Community of Knowledge Exchange Event
Location: Alberta Room, Dining Centre, Main Campus, University of Calgary

Objective
To provide a forum for sharing information on the role of active living and physical activity in preventing age-associated cognitive decline and enhancing mental health.

Format
Following a series of seminars, the day will close with an expert panel discussion on the role of public policy on promoting active living in Alberta.

Target Audience
Health care practitioners, decision-makers, and interested Calgarians from all walks of life.

Keynote Speaker: Roger Kramers, Executive Director, Recreation and Physical Activity Division, Alberta Culture and Tourism, Government of Alberta

Confirmed Speakers:

• Padmaja Genesh, Learning Specialist, Alzheimer Society of Calgary, Calgary Alberta, Canada
• Susan Slaughter, University of Alberta, Edmonton Alberta, Canada
• Nora Johnston, Director, Alberta Centre for Active Living, University of Alberta, Edmonton Alberta, Canada
• Andrew McCloskey, Health Promotion Facilitator, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Alberta Health Services
• Joyce Tang, Senior Planner, City of Calgary
• Stephanie Won, Recreation for Life Business and Policy Planner, City of Calgary (Active Aging Strategy)