About this Event
Our brains shape how we move, think, connect and experience the world—but what does it really mean to support brain health throughout our lives?
Building on the Whistler Institute’s fall conversation on healthy aging, this event turns our attention to the brain and the growing body of research exploring how our health, lifestyles, experiences and environments can influence brain wellness over time.
Join Dr. Silke Appel-Cresswell, neurologist and researcher at the University of British Columbia’s Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, for an engaging exploration of what science is teaching us about lifelong brain health. Drawing on her clinical and research experience, Dr. Appel-Cresswell will consider the many interconnected factors that contribute to brain wellness and resilience—from movement, nutrition and sleep to social connection, emotional wellbeing and our broader environment.
The conversation will also explore how our understanding of the brain is evolving, what we are learning about neurological health and disease, and how research can translate into practical approaches that support brain health at different stages of life.
Moderating the evening will be Dr. Judy Illes, Professor of Neurology and Distinguished University Scholar at UBC and a leading international expert in neuroethics. Together, Dr. Appel-Cresswell and Dr. Illes will bring scientific, clinical and human perspectives to a conversation about one of our most complex—and essential—organs.
The evening will conclude with a moderated discussion and audience Q&A, creating space to explore the questions that matter to our community.
Whether you are interested in healthy aging, neurological health, prevention, emerging brain science, or simply what you can do to support your brain throughout your life, this conversation offers an opportunity to learn, ask questions and think differently about brain health.
About the Speakers
Dr. Silke Appel-Cresswell — Featured Speaker
Dr. Silke Appel-Cresswell is a neurologist and researcher at the University of British Columbia and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, where her work focuses on Parkinson’s disease, movement disorders and brain health. Her research takes a holistic approach to understanding neurological health, exploring how factors such as exercise, nutrition, the gut microbiome, mindfulness, social connection, creativity and the environment may influence brain health and quality of life. Through her clinical practice and research, Dr. Appel-Cresswell brings together emerging science and a whole-person perspective to better understand how we can support healthy brains throughout our lives.
Dr. Judy Illes — Moderator
Dr. Judy Illes is Professor of Neurology and Distinguished University Scholar at the University of British Columbia, where she is a leading international expert in neuroethics. Her work explores the ethical, social and policy dimensions of neuroscience, including how advances in brain research and emerging technologies affect individuals, families and society. Through her research and leadership, Dr. Illes brings a unique perspective to questions about brain health—connecting scientific discovery with the complex human considerations that accompany it. As moderator, she will help guide the evening’s conversation and audience Q&A, bringing together scientific, clinical and community perspectives.
Event venue & nearby stays
Maury Young Arts Centre, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, Canada
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