In Canada, there are major research efforts underway to understand how and why some people age better than others. In November 2016, CTV W5 featured the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) as one of the initiatives working towards better understanding aging in Canada. W5 is Canada’s most-watched current affairs and documentary program that tackles major stories and investigations.

Dr. Parminder Raina, CLSA lead principal investigator, was interviewed by W5’s Kevin Newman for his insights on aging and the long-term goals of the CLSA.

“It is one of the most comprehensive studies not only in Canada but around the globe. Why do some people age in a healthy fashion and others don’t – that’s the prime driver behind this,” said Dr. Raina, who is also the scientific director of the McMaster Institute for Research on Aging.

The CLSA is a large, national, long-term study of more than 50,000 men and women who were between the ages of 45 and 85 when recruited. Approximately 30, 000 participants have given blood and urine samples that will help researchers determine the biological and genetic factors that contribute to healthy aging. Whether it’s exercising and eating well, being genetically lucky or other factors, the question of why some people age well and others don’t is being investigated by the CLSA.