Baycrest

2023 Rotman Research Institute Virtual Conference The 2023 conference attracted leading experts in the field of aging and brain health to discuss state- of-the-art research and clinical practices related to the vascular system and the aging brain. During this highly anticipated, two-day event, 13 internationally renowned speakers presented their latest discoveries related to the heart-brain connection, as well as innovations and interventions to prevent and manage neurovascular disorders and improve quality of life for those living with these conditions. Speakers came from leading organizations around the world, including Baycrest, Stanford University, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Columbia University, the University of Toronto, McMaster University, and more. Topics ranged from the benefits of exercise for brain health, to the impact of cardiovascular health on Alzheimer's disease, innovative neuroimaging techniques for aging and vascular health, and much more. The event was held in the virtual Rotman Research Institute (RRI) space using the gather.town platform. In addition to the fascinating plenary sessions, attendees had access to dedicated networking events and discussions with speakers and sponsors, as well as interactive poster sessions. The conference also featured a public event about the heart-brain connection, which was jointly produced by the RRI and the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI) and moderated by Dr. Allison Sekuler, President and Chief Scientist of the Baycrest Academy and CABHI. Recent studies have shown that what is good for the heart is good for the brain, and it is helpful for all of us not to have to prioritize one over the other. However, with so much conflicting health-related information available, it can be hard to know how best to take care of our hearts and brains. This free panel aimed to cut through that clutter, bringing together experts with unique perspectives from science, innovation, policy, and clinical practice, discussing questions like: "How can we optimize our heart and brain health throughout our lives?", "How can research discoveries about heart-brain connections guide policies to improve public health?" and "Why is heart health important for dementia prevention?" After the conference, leading innovators, entrepreneurs, older adults, and global companies came together at the CABHI Summit 2023, Daring to Disrupt: Reimagining the Aging Experience. This collaboration between the RRI and CABHI served as a bridge between research and innovation, and connected researchers with diverse stakeholders. Aging & Brain Health The Vascular System and the Aging Brain A recording of the public panel discussion can be viewed here. 28 BAYCREST ACADEMY FOR RESEARCH AND EDUCATION

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