Aging Vibrantly : Conversations to Empower Seniors

In this episode, Raeann Rideout and Pauline Luening speak with Pat Dunn, founder of Senior Women Living Together. Pat discusses the concept of communal living, how women can find compatible housemates, and shares success stories that highlight the social and financial benefits of this arrangement. The conversation also touches on landlord perspectives, legal considerations for homeowners, and Pat's personal journey that inspired her to create this initiative. Pat Dunn is the Founder of Senior Women Living Together, an organization that promotes shared living arrangements for senior women. What began as a Facebook group to connect with other women in her situation, quickly became an official non-profit helping women across Canada. Pat is also an example of how senior women living in shared accommodation works, and improves social connectedness and wellbeing.   Learn more about Pat https://swlt.ca/our-founders-story https://www.linkedin.com/in/pat-dunn-0643a7169/   Chapters 02:15 The Concept of Shared Living 03:28 Finding Compatible Housemates 06:33 Success Stories and Social Impact 09:47 Landlord Perspectives on Cohabitation 12:36 Legal Considerations for Homeowners 14:40 Pat's Personal Journey and Motivation 17:34 Expanding the Initiative Across Canada 19:47 Advice for Starting Similar Projects   For more about the podcast, check out www.eapon.ca/podcast. We would love to hear from you, fill out our survey at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/Podcast_Listener_Feedback    Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as constituting or implying endorsement by EAPO of any entity, product, service or organization mentioned, referenced, or linked.

In this episode hosts Raeann Rideout and Sherry Baker speak with Bridgette Murphy, CEO of Age Well. Most seniors want to age in place, but navigating the latest tech can feel overwhelming and expensive. What if the answer isn't just innovation, but inclusive innovation? Bridgette reveals how Canada's leading aging tech network is empowering older adults and caregivers to co-create solutions that really work, and are affordable too. Imagine a world where smart gloves help Parkinson's patients stabilize tremors and regain daily independence, or AI-powered home sensors discreetly monitor safety without invading privacy. The opportunities are enormous, but only if developers and policymakers work hand-in-hand with older adults themselves. Bridgette Murphy is CEO of Age Well, a national network accelerating the development and adoption of technology for healthy aging in Canada. Bridgette has more than 15 years of experience building and managing large-scale research and innovation initiatives. Her leadership ensures that older adults and caregivers are at the heart of every innovation, making their lives safer and more connected.   Learn more about Bridgette https://agewell-nce.ca/13461-2 https://linkedin.com/in/bridget-murphy-123456   Chapters 01:29 Understanding Age Well's Mission 03:23 Technology for Seniors and Caregivers 03:23 Innovations in Aging Technology 07:56 Addressing Cognitive and Hearing Challenges 12:00 Social Robotics and Engagement 13:23 Adoption of Technology by Seniors 17:26 Co-Design and Community Involvement 20:52 Getting Involved with Age Well 24:54 Affordability and Accessibility of Technology   For more about the podcast, check out www.eapon.ca/podcast. We would love to hear from you, fill out our survey at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/Podcast_Listener_Feedback    Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as constituting or implying endorsement by EAPO of any entity, product, service or organization mentioned, referenced, or linked.

In this episode hosts Raeann Rideout and Pauline Luening speak with author and journalist Moira Welsh about her new book, 'The Astonishing Lives of Older Women'. They explore the financial realities faced by older women, including the gender pension gap, the impact of divorce, and innovative living arrangements that can provide companionship and financial relief. Moira shares stories of women who have navigated these challenges, and emphasizes the importance of planning for the future and the value of community and friendship in aging vibrantly. Moira Welsh is a Toronto based reporter covering Ontario politics for the Toronto Star. Her topics focus on issues related to older adults, environmental regulation and social justice. She is also a former investigative reporter. Moria lives in Toronto and is the mother of two young men.   Learn more about Moria www.thestar.com/users/profile/moira-welsh/   www.linkedin.com/in/moira-welsh/ Learn more about Moira's book 'The Astonishing Lives of Older Women': https://ecwpress.com/products/astonishing-lives-of-older-women.   Chapters 01:04 Exploring Financial Realities for Older Women 05:57 The Gender Pension Gap and Its Implications 09:58 The Impact of Divorce on Financial Security 12:54 Living Arrangements and the Rise of Roommates 18:51 Innovative Solutions for Shared Living 24:58 Susan's Unique Approach to Aging 30:01 Advice for Future Generations   For more about the podcast, check out www.eapon.ca/podcast. We would love to hear from you, fill out our survey at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/Podcast_Listener_Feedback    Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as constituting or implying endorsement by EAPO of any entity, product, service or organization mentioned, referenced, or linked.  

In this special episode we listen, learn, and share as we stitch together stories from an Anishinaabe view on Aging Well. We are honoured to host this interview with our guests Alice Olsen Williams, a renowned artist and quiltmaker and member of Oshkiigmong Curve Lake First Nation, Dr. Nadine Changfoot from the Trent Centre for Aging & Society at Trent University in Peterborough/Nogojiwanong  (Treaty 20), Ontario and co-host, Debra Sayewich, a member of the Wasauksing First Nation, Potawatomi Nation, Robinson Huron Treaty 1850 and a member of the Aging Vibrantly Podcast senior advisory committee.  In this episode we learn what it means to grow older while navigating the ongoing impacts of settler colonialism and the systemic barriers of settler policies and structures. The personal stories shared from Alice, Debra and Nadine enlighten us on how aging in Indigenous communities is grounded in roots of relationships, intergenerational connections, and storytelling. We explore the importance of Indigenous values and teachings of growing older by respecting, and learning from Elders as vital knowledge holders, honoring their wisdom, and resilience.  As we continue our learnings, research and care for aging well with Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples working together, we can engage in meaningful interactions, and reconciliation to support healthy aging. Moving forward in a good way.  Until next time - Stay Vibrant! _____________________________ Episode Resources: Trent Centre for Aging & Society-Indigenous Aging www.trentu.ca/aging/indigenous-aging Anishinaabe Indigenous Intergenerational Growing Old/Aging https://www.trentu.ca/aging/sites/trentu.ca.aging/files/documents/2025-09-1720AIIGO20Report20Final-1.pdf What Indigenous Wisdom Teaches Us About Growing Older www.trentu.ca/news/story/25/03/27/what-indigenous-wisdom-teaches-us-about-growing-older Quilt Index-Alice Olsen Williams Quiltmaker Curve Lake First Nation, Michigan, Canada - North American Indian and Native Hawaiian Quilt Collection https://quiltindex.org/view/view/?type=artists&kid=12-51-63 National Museum of the American Indian-Alice Olsen Williams https://americanindian.si.edu/collections-search/object/NMAI_412305 MSU Museum Exhibition The Tree of Peace Saves the Earth - Alice Olsen Williams https://museum.msu.edu/exhibition/the-tree-of-peace-saves-the-earth/ Alice Olsen Williams -  Artwork featured in ReFrame's 2025 https://reframefilmfestival.ca/2025-design/ Conversations on Art in a Pandemic -Alice Olsen Williams and Caroline Langillon SLACK ,August 18, 2020www.ecthree.org/conversations-on-art-in-a-pandemic-an-interview-with-alice-olsen-williams-by-caroline-langill/ MinoPimaatisiwin Quilts https://pimaatisiwin-quilts.weebly.com/bio.html     Guests: Alice Olsen Williams is a renowned quilter and member of the Oshkiigmong Curve Lake First Nation. Alice was born in Trout Lake, Ontario. She received her teaching certificate from Lakehead University and completed her B.A. (1982) from Trent University in Native Studies and Sociology as well as developed her skills in beadwork and sewing. In 1980 she discovered quilting, mastering the techniques which allow her to create the meticulous hand-quilting in her beautiful bed coverings and wall hangings. Blending her cultural heritage into a unified whole, she envisions the central motif to depict the symbols and themes of Anishinaabe culture, surrounded by the conventional North American quilting blocks and patterns which were developed and continue to be evolved by those women and their descendants who came to this Land from Europe, the legacy of her father's people. Through her understanding of the teachings of the Elders, Alice has created her own Life symbol. She continues to grow as an artist, searching for new ways to express the Spirit of Creation in the images of her designs.   Nadine Changfoot is a full professor in Political Studies and on the Executive of the Trent Centre for Aging & Society at Trent University in Peterborough/Nogojiwanong (Treaty 20), Ontario, Northern Turtle Island now known as Canada. She is deeply moved by storytelling and creative methods and processes that bring to light experiences and visions for social equity and kinder, more livable worlds. She has published widely in journals of arts, community development, community engaged research, philosophy, political science, and sociology. She serves as Board Member on the Peterborough Arts Council, called EC3 (Electric City Culture Council). ______________________________ Credits : Producer: Todd Miller, The Podcast Experts Co-Host:  Tom Warner, Member of Aging Vibrantly Podcast Advisory Committee Music: Redpath Audio Stay Connected : The best way to show your support and help us grow our Aging Vibrantly podcast, is to like, and share our Episodes today. Why not leave us a review by completing our short Listener Feedback Survey and subscribe to Aging Vibrantly wherever you get your podcast. Listener Feedback : www.surveymonkey.com/r/Podcast_Listener_Feedback  If you prefer to watch the interview, this episode and all others are available on Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario's YouTube Channel. Be sure to also check our website eapon.ca to learn more resources on abuse prevention and protecting the rights and dignity of older adults.  Disclaimer :This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as constituting or implying endorsement by EAPO of any entity, product, service or organization mentioned, referenced, or linked.  

In this episode, we explore how libraries go beyond just a place to borrow books. We dive into how they have become a central community "hub" - a free and welcoming space to read, study, work, access technology, socialize in programs and activities and to connect with others.  You may be surprised to learn about the diverse programs and services libraries offer older adults to create connections, learning opportunities and a sense of belonging.    We hope by listening to this lively discussion, you will be empowered with more knowledge on the role of libraries and librarians.  Until next time - Stay Vibrant! _____________________________ Episode Resources: Toronto Public Library www.tpl.ca Seniors E-Connect - matches older adults with a teen volunteer to provide tech help, under the guidance of library staff. Your Health Matters- New collection selected in collaboration with Toronto Public Health   Dementia Friendly Picture Book List – created with Alzheimer Society of Toronto  and books  written specifically for people living with dementia. Financial Empowerment services and Programs - Find help and learn how to improve your financial health and well-being. BOOKS Radiant Rebellion: Reclaim Aging, Practice Joy, and Raise a Little Hell by Karen Walrond  The Lightmaker's Manifesto: How to Work for Change without Losing Your Joy by Karen Walrond Ageism Unmasked: Exploring Age Bias and How to End It  by Tracey Gendron   Our Guest: Vanessa Sparks is Senior Services Specialist for Older Adults & Seniors at Toronto Public Library. Vanessa holds a Master's of Library and Information Studies from McGill University and a Master's of Social Work from University of Toronto. She developed a passion for working with older people while working in the fields of community mental health and senior's advocacy. For Vanessa, public libraries are an essential social infrastructure that support well-being across the life course in a myriad of inspiring ways. ______________________________ Credits : Producer: Todd Miller, The Podcast Experts Co-Host:  Tom Warner, Member of Aging Vibrantly Podcast Advisory Committee Music: Redpath Audio Stay Connected : The best way to show your support and help us grow our Aging Vibrantly podcast, is to like, and share our Episodes today. Why not leave us a review by completing our short Listener Feedback Survey and subscribe to Aging Vibrantly wherever you get your podcast. Listener Feedback : www.surveymonkey.com/r/Podcast_Listener_Feedback  If you prefer to watch the interview, this episode and all others are available on Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario's YouTube Channel. Be sure to also check our website eapon.ca to learn more resources on abuse prevention and protecting the rights and dignity of older adults.  Disclaimer :This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as constituting or implying endorsement by EAPO of any entity, product, service or organization mentioned, referenced, or linked.