On March 19th, the MIRA | Dixon Hall Centre welcomed more than 80 members of the Toronto community to the latest edition of the Snacks and Science Series—an accessible and engaging event that invites older adults, researchers, policymakers, and service providers to strengthen community ties while connecting and learning about aging research topics while sharing a meal. Cultivating meaningful knowledge exchange between McMaster researchers and community members, the Snacks and Science series aims to promote healthy aging and accessible science in everyday spaces.
The featured session, Fall Prevention: how to stay stable and safe as we age, focused on practical strategies to support mobility and safety in later life. Held in the bright and inviting Parish Hall, attendees were warmly greeted by Christine Chow, Director of Senior Services and Child & Youth Services for Dixon Hall, and Nadia Jamil, Research and Community Lead for the centre.
Dr. Marla Beauchamp, Director of the MIRA | Dixon Hall Centre, delivered an informative lecture on the causes and impacts of falls among older adults. A physical therapist and Associate Professor in the School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Dr. Beauchamp outlined evidence-based strategies for reducing fall risk, including balance and strength training, home modifications, medication reviews, and regular eye and foot health assessments. Providing an accessible and welcoming space to engage with the topic, the presentation sparked thoughtful discussion among an engaged audience, many of whom are Dixon Hall clients and staff.
The afternoon concluded with an interactive demonstration led by Dr. Sachi O’Hoski, Scientific Operations Manager, and physiotherapy resident Stephanie Saunders. This interactive session provided participants with simple yet effective techniques to enhance safety and confidence in their daily movements.
MIRA | Dixon Hall would like to thank all attendees for participating! If you enjoyed learning about fall prevention, join us for our upcoming Snacks and Science event “Women and Stroke: How sex and gender can affect your cardiovascular health” on May 28th in the Parish Hall Centre at Dixon Hall. For registration and for all our events, please visit the MIRA events webpage.
