2025
Publication Alert: Dr. George Heckman in the Sage Publishing and Healthcare Management Forum
November 27, 2025
This article focuses on the implementation of interRAI instruments at a national health system level. Key considerations are outlined. These include policy and legal considerations, resourcing considerations, training and education considerations, and data considerations.Media Appearance: Dr. Jaspreet Bhangu interviewed by CityNews
November 18, 2025
Canada’s health care system not ready for new therapies to treat early Alzheimer’sMedia Appearance: Dr. Jaspreet Bhangu interviewed by CTV
November 18, 2025
Experts calling for Canada to get ready for new Alzheimer's treatments.More from the Sage Journals
November 17, 2025
Inspiring That EUREKA Moment: The Importance of Patient Co-Design of Outputs from interRAI AssessmentsMeet the Faces Behind Exceptional Geriatric Care!
November 13, 2025
We’re rolling out new faculty profiles—get to know the incredible team dedicated to your health, well-being and education! Follow us on Instagram for exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes stories. Think Geriatrics. Think Western.Exciting News from Our Residency Program Committee Team!
November 12, 2025
We are thrilled to announce that Chelsea Schelhaas will be joining our residency program in July 2026! Chelsea is currently completing her Internal Medicine training at Queen’s University and was our top choice for the position. We look forward to welcoming her and continuing to provide exceptional care and education in Geriatric Medicine.Publication Alert: Dr. George Heckman in Sage Publishing and Healthcare Management Forum
November 03, 2025
"The Use of interRAI Scales Across Healthcare Settings: Building a Bridge Between Evidence and Practice:Geriatric Medicine Honoured with LHSC Patient Safety Champion Team Award for Second Consecutive Year!
October 31, 2025
We are proud to recognize Dr. Monidipa Dasgupta and her Nurse Practitioner team—Karli Crunican, Lyndsay Beker, and Michael Olawoore—as recipients of the LHSC Patient Safety Champion Team Award for their outstanding work on the initiative No Holds: Alternatives to Restraints for Respect, Mobility, and Safety (“No-HARRMS”). Their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care exemplify excellence in safety and respect. Congratulations to the entire team on this well-deserved honor.Publication Alert: Dr. George Heckman in Sage Publishing and Healthcare Management Forum
October 28, 2025
"Building a Rational Clinical Information System for Older Adults in Acute Care: The Role of the interRAI Acute Care Suite"Media Appearance: Dr. Manuel Montero-Odasso interviewed by the Globe and Mail
October 28, 2025
Lecanemab is the first new treatment for Alzheimer’s disease to reach Canada in 20 years, and Health Canada’s recent authorization of the disease-modifying drug has understandably triggered hope and excitement.Media Appearance: CBC Interview with Dr. Michael Borrie
October 28, 2025
New treatment gives hope to patients with early Alzheimer's diseasePublication Alert: Dr. George Heckman in Sage Publishing and Healthcare Management Forum
October 27, 2025
“Born From Crisis: The Evolution of interRAI and Its Relevance to Today’s Healthcare Challenges”Announcement - Dr. Montero-Odasso Awarded The Consortium of Canadian Centres for Clinical Cognitive Research (C5R) Irma M. Parhad Award for Excellence
October 07, 2025
This special tribute honors Dr. Montero-Odasso's outstanding contribution to the understanding and treatment of patients suffering from cognitive disorders.Event Announcement - XIX Gait & Brain Seminar
October 07, 2025
Guest Speaker, Dr. Amer Burhan MD, MBChB, MSc, FRCPC, Professor, University of Toronto, Director, Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences presents "The Gait, Mood, and Cognition Triad: Networks and Interventions"A Challenge to Us All - Presence as the Strongest Prescription
October 06, 2025Geriatric Medicine Walk for Alzheimer's Team Competes at the Brain It On!: Cognitive Corporate Challenge
September 25, 2025
Members of the GM Faculty and their family have a blast competing in the Brain It On!: Cognitive Corporate Challenge in support of the SJHC FoundationMeet Our Newest (and Furriest) Team Member: Geri Atric!
September 15, 2025
We’re happy to introduce the honorary newest member of our Geriatric Medicine office — Geri Atric, a spirited little weiner dog who has quickly become the heart and soul of our workplace!Editorial in the Press - Dr. George Heckman
August 15, 2025
In the editorial, Dr. Heckman et al explore a recent paper suggesting that cardiovascular events may worsen frailty. While the causal link remains uncertain, the topic is clinically important. Emerging evidence indicates that some heart failure treatments may be more effective in patients with mild to moderate frailty—though the benefit in those with severe frailty is still unclear. These findings highlight the growing need for cardiogeriatric training to better address the complex needs of this population.Media Appearance: Dr. Nadeen Al Baz recognized by the Fragility Fracture Network as Canada's 1st Orthogeriatric Fellow
August 12, 2025
The Fragility Fracture Network (FFN) is collaborating with hospitals worldwide to develop orthogeriatric learning opportunities, including fellowship programs. The following is an excellent example of a successful initiative in Canada. If you are interested in establishing a similar program, please reach out—FFN can connect you with experienced mentors to support and guide your efforts.Innovation in Training: Community Resource Rotation Empowers Year 1 Residents to Enhance Geriatric Care
August 05, 2025
As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, so does the way we prepare the next generation of geriatricians. We're excited to highlight a unique and innovative component of our Geriatric Medicine training program: the Community Resource Rotation, introduced in Year 1 of residency.CIHR’s CCNA Phase III: Research Teams funding announcement
July 30, 2025
We are thrilled to share the results of the Canadian Institute of Health Research’s (CIHR) Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA) Phase III: Research Teams funding opportunity. With researchers from across Canada, 16 new research teams will study prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care for people with dementia and their caregivers.Media Appearance: Dr. Michael Borrie Interview with Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift aired on Newstalk 1010
July 30, 2025
Dr. Borrie highlights the current state of research, treatment, and diagnosis, emphasizing the urgent need for increased education among both families and physicians.Research Grant Awarded - Manuel Montero Odasso
July 26, 2025
The world’s dementia research community gathered at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Toronto. At this global event, scientists, medical specialists, caregivers, advocates, and people with lived experience from Canada and abroad will discuss dementia science and how to improve the prevention, treatment, and care for dementia, a condition that, as of 2022-23, affects almost 487,000 Canadians aged 65 and older—and more than 57 million people worldwide.Publication Alert: Dr. George Heckman
July 26, 2025
This study examines the complex transitions between the different mood states and absorbing states out of long-term care settings, as well as the factors affecting those transitions.Event Wrap Up: interRAI Canada
July 22, 2025
On behalf of interRAI Canada, and as one of the event organizers, Dr. George Heckman would like to thank everyone who attended our successful one-day conference focused on solutions to improve ALC and outcomes for older adults.Western University Celebrates Graduation of Canada’s First Orthogeriatric Fellow
July 18, 2025
London, Ontario, Canada – July 17, 2025 — Western University is proud to announce the graduation of Dr. Nadeen Al Baz, the first trainee to complete Canada’s inaugural Orthogeriatric Fellowship Program. This milestone marks a significant advancement in specialized geriatric training, reflecting Canada’s growing commitment to interdisciplinary care for older adults with complex musculoskeletal conditions.Event Announcement: InterRAI Canada July 22 & 23, 2025
July 11, 2025
InterRAI is an international not-for-profit scientific organization involving over 150 clinicians and scientists in over 40 countries (www.interRAI.org). There are four interRAI fellows based in London, including Drs. George Heckman and Jacobi Elliott based at Parkwood Hospital and affiliated with the Lawson Institute, and Drs. Danielle Fearon (Arthur Labatt School of Nursing) and Shannon Stewart (Faculty of Education) at Western University.Welcome Dr. Steven Mejia
July 02, 2025
We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Steven Mejia as the newest addition to our resident roster! Dr. Mejia joins us as a PGY-4 Subspecialty Resident, having recently completed his Internal Medicine training at Western.Welcome Dr. Taureef Mohammed to the Division of Geriatric Medicine
July 01, 2025
The Division of Geriatric Medicine is pleased to welcome Dr. Taureef Mohammed to our team.Dr. Jenny Thain has been appointed by Ontario Health as the Clinical Lead for Hip Fracture
July 01, 2025
We are proud to share that Dr. Jenny Thain has been appointed by Ontario Health (OH) as the Clinical Lead for Hip Fracture.Publication Alert: Dr. George Heckman
June 26, 2025
We examined how long-term care (LTC) home residents transition between different activities of daily living (ADL) performance levels, and to eventual terminal clinical outcomes.Publication Alert: Dr. George Heckman
June 26, 2025
interRAI is a global collaboration of clinicians, researchers and policy-makers who have developed a suite of assessment tools to assess the health status and care needs of older adults in various settings (ie, home, long-term care, etc).Event Announcement: Guest Speakers Dr. Patricia Hewston & Dr. Alexandra Papaioannou
May 26, 2025
The Division of Geriatric Medicine is pleased to invite you to the upcoming Clinical Practice Review (CPR) as part of our Grand Rounds series. The CPR presentations are dedicated to advancing the care of older adults by exploring a wide range of topics. While these sessions are typically presented by geriatricians and geriatric medicine residents/fellows, we welcome guest speakers whose expertise aligns with geriatric care.New NGIG Geriatrics Pocketbook Now Available!
May 20, 2025
We’re excited to announce the launch of the NGIG Geriatrics Pocketbook, a comprehensive new resource designed to support medical learners in the care of older adults. Developed through the dedicated efforts of the National Geriatrics Interest Group (NGIG) and with contributions from several of our own faculty members, this pocketbook offers accessible, high-yield content tailored for students and trainees.Celebrating Outstanding Student Achievement
May 09, 2025
Our Gait and Brain Lab student has been awarded the Ontario Graduate Scholarship for her master’s project on validating the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scale without an informant. Her project included conducting a study with 60 participants from the Gait Number Study to establish the reliability of this important staging tool, which is increasingly being used as an outcome measure in dementia clinical trials.Medical students offer connection and companionship to local seniors
May 01, 2025
Greeted by pink tablecloths, flowers and dozens of nail polish bottles, seniors at Fox Hollow Retirement Residence in northwest London, Ont. gather for a special treat.. It’s a sunny weekday morning in early April and medical students are on-hand to pamper them, offering manicures, makeup, basic skin care and bracelet-making.Another Milestone: 38th Geriatric Medicine Refresher Day Wraps Up
April 28, 2025
With nearly 500 attendees, the 38th Annual Geriatric Medicine Refresher Day was a tremendous success. The event featured exceptional presentations, engaging discussions, and invaluable opportunities for networking—all complemented by excellent food and a warm atmosphere.50th Anniversary Celebration
April 28, 2025
For over five decades, the Division of Geriatric Medicine has established itself as a leader in clinical care, research, and education—shaping the field of geriatrics regionally, nationally, and internationally.IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's
April 04, 2025
For the 8th straight year, the "Cognitive Enhancers" are joining together to support the Alzhiemer's Society at the Walk for Memories on May 24, 2025. This team is made up of geriatricians, medical students, residents, nurses, nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, administrative staff from the Division of Geriatric Medicine at Western University, as well as their families. Please come support our team, either by joining our walk or donating to our team. Help us raise money and awareness for this important cause!Healthcare Excellence Canada highlights neighbouring Health Team
April 03, 2025
The KW4 Ontario Health Team Integrated Care Team for Older Adults (KW4 ICT) is an integrated primary care model supporting older adults with complex health conditions. By embedding specialized services within primary care, KW4 ICT reduces avoidable emergency department visits, streamlines waitlists, and enhances the well-being of older adults and their caregivers.Media Appearance: Dr. George Heckman at ASPiRe Melbourne 2025
March 28, 2025
Dr. George Heckman's interview at interRAI ASPiRe Mel 2025. "interRAI in practice... a geriatrician's experience"Publication Alert: Dr. George Heckman
March 26, 2025
Mental health disorders are common among residents of long-term care (LTC). Despite depression being the most common type of mental illness, it is often undiagnosed in LTC. Due to its prevalence, chronicity and associated morbidity, depression poses a considerable service use burden. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought needed attention to the mental health challenges faced by older adults in LTC.Publication Alert: Dr. Montero-Odasso
March 17, 2025
Five things to know about ... Falls in older adultsExploring Geriatrics: New Faces, Fresh Perspectives!
March 11, 2025
Welcoming Our Visiting Elective Residents to Geriatric Medicine at Western! The Division of Geriatric Medicine at Western University is thrilled to welcome two elective residents who will be joining us for a month-long immersive experience.Announcement: Dr. Alishya Burrell Appointed as Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (UME) (Acting)
March 01, 2025
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Alishya Burrell as Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (UME) (Acting), Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, effective March 1, 2025 to August 31, 2025.Showcasing Excellence: Our Faculty Shines at the at the Strategic Policy Uplift Program Symposium in Australia
February 24, 2025
Across two days, the Strategic Policy Uplift Program Symposium provided enriching content and spurred thoughtful, generative discussions to inspire course participants to forge ahead on the journey to discover how they fit into designing an increasingly robust Australian health and aged care policy environment.Event Announcement: Guest Speaker Dr. Stephen Lord
February 21, 2025
The CIHR Institute of Aging and the CIHR Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis are highlighting the World Falls Guidelines with a 4 city event featuring Professor Stephen Lord (Sidney, Australia) as a invited key note speaker presenting on "The Role of Exercise on Cognition and Falls". Chaired by Dr. Montero-Odasso.Publication Alert: Dr. Montero-Odasso
January 13, 2025
Prioritizing gait speed as the primary predictive measure, with the TUG test as a secondary tool with age-specific cut-offs, will likely enhance prediction and group risk stratification accuracy.Media Appearance: Dr. Montero-Odasso in the London Free Press
January 03, 2025
Lifestyle changes cut dementia risk in half of cases: London research Get off the couch, go for a walk, get your hearing checked and get a good night’s sleep.Media Appearance: Dr. Montero-Odasso in CBC News
January 02, 2025
A team of researchers in London have channeled the power of research into creating a straightforward list of steps, like moving more and managing blood pressure, that anyone can take to reduce their risk of dementia.Media Appearance: Dr. Manuel Montero-Odasso
December 11, 2024
CIHR across Canada - Dementia doesn't have to be your destiny
