Canada Life has donated $800,000 to the Montreal Heart Institute. The money will be used in the construction of the final phase of the Institute's EPIC Center – one of the largest cardiology prevention and cardiovascular disease rehabilitation centers in North America.

In a May 30 announcement, the Institute stated that the insurer’s donation will allow for the creation of a new research unit at the EPIC Center that is unique in Canada. It will bring together researchers and students interested in factors that can modulate the cognitive changes frequently observed in older people.

Dr. Louis Bherer, neuropsychologist, a researcher recognized worldwide for his research work, and Scientific Assistant Director at the EPIC Center, will lead the research unit alongside Drs. Mathieu Gayda and Daniel Gagnon.

Cognitive disorders and dementia

As part of the expansion and modernization of the EPIC Center, a research gymnasium and laboratories will be dedicated to the study of the prevention of cognitive disorders and dementia. These will be operational by the fall of 2019, said the Institute.

"Our association with the Montreal Heart Institute and the EPIC Center is a natural fit. Canada Life has been proud to contribute to the physical, mental and financial health of Quebecers and Canadians for decades. We are particularly enthusiastic about supporting the creation of an innovative research unit that will have a positive impact on the lives of people here; they are at the heart of our daily actions," says Monique Maynard, President, Quebec Affairs, Canada Life.