The Future Age

Host Zannat Reza shares a quick update for The Future Age podcast.While we take a short break to recharge and prepare the final episodes of the season, here’s a glimpse of what’s coming in the new year:Fresh insights into financial wellness for longer lives.A reimagined approach to long-term care with small care homes transforming caregiving and community.Catch up on past episodes, stay inspired, and get ready to explore bold ideas for aging well. See you in the new year.

In this episode of The Future Age podcast, host Zannat Reza explores how we can tackle some of society’s biggest problems, from climate change to the housing crisis, through bridging generational divides. It's not just about mentorship or passing the baton but the power of different age groups working together to build a better future.   Eunice Lin Nichols, co-CEO of CoGenerate, discusses how the three P’s (proximity, place and problem solving) can create strong bonds across generations.  Akaya Windwood, lead advisor at Third Act, talks about what older and younger adults can learn from each other when engaging in advocacy. For more information and a list of resources go to TheFutureAge.ca.Resources: COURAGE: Action for Better Aging CoGenerate Third Act Eunice NicholsAkaya WindwoodCanada HomeShare  Canadian Alliance for Intergenerational LivingSpacesSharedAge-Friendly Institute Connect: Learn More:The Future Age  LinkedIn: SE Health   YouTube: SE Health   Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter / X  Connect w/ Zannat: LinkedIn  Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:37) - Generational Collaboration with Eunice (03:21) - Creating Spaces for Intergenerational Interaction (04:47) - Building Meaningful Connections (06:55) - Real-World Issues for Generational Collaboration (08:32) - Workplace Generational Cooperation (10:12) - Advice for Young Leaders and Older Allies (12:41) - Overcoming Obstacles to Co-Generation (14:08) - Bridging Generational Divides with Storytelling (15:35) - Akaya’s Activist Journey (17:25) - Fostering Joy and Collaboration Across Generations (20:03) - Elders as Allies: Supporting Younger Generations (22:25) - Humility in Generational Conversations (23:02) - Generational Activism through Storytelling (23:57) - Mobilizing Older Adults with Third Act (25:53) - Third Act’s Success and Climate Change Advocacy (26:38) - Addressing Ageism and Building Effective Elders (28:26) - The Final Question (30:08) - Conclusion

Innovations shaping the future of health care.In this episode of The Future Age podcast, host Zannat Reza explores what the future of health care could look like with guests Dr. Bertalan Meskó, Director of The Medical Futurist Institute, and Dr. Zayna Khayat, the health futurist in residence at Deloitte Canada.  They discuss major trends and innovations shaping the future of health care, including globalization, digital therapeutics, and bringing care to a patient’s home. And while there's a lot to be excited about when it comes to emerging health technologies, those innovations alone won't solve our problems. For more information and a list of resources go to TheFutureAge.ca.Resources: The Medical Futurist Institute  The Commonwealth Fund International Health Care System Profiles: NetherlandsFraser Health, in British Columbia, aims to become an AI leader  Humber River Hospital: Transforming Emergency Care Through AI  Bertalan Meskó | LinkedIn  Zayna Khayat | LinkedIn  Connect: Learn More:The Future Age  LinkedIn: SE Health   YouTube: SE Health   Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter / X  Connect w/ Zannat: LinkedIn  Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:18) - Bertalan’s Vision for Healthcare (02:02) - Bringing Healthcare to the Patient (03:10) - Globalized Healthcare (03:38) - Digital Therapeutics (06:16) - Virtual Reality in Pain Management (06:48) - Multiple Healthcare Futures (07:43) - Health Data Across Borders (09:16) - Care Anywhere (12:25) - Global Models of Care (13:55) - Canadian Healthcare Innovation (14:33) - Digital Twins in Healthcare (16:47) - Mobile Clinics and Rural Access (18:16) - The Future of Wearable Technology (19:53) - AI-Guided Diagnostic Tools (21:40) - Health Technology Access (24:21) - The Final Question (27:03) - Conclusion

The true value of care work in the economy.In this episode of The Future Age podcast, host Zannat Reza explores the hidden economic value of caregiving with guest Diana Rodríguez Franco, Special Advisor on Gender and Diversity to the president of the Inter-American Development Bank. Diana talks about the true value of care work in the economy, how failing to recognize its worth disproportionately affects women, and the impact “time poverty” has on women’s economic and social opportunities. We’ll discuss how the care economy plays a fundamental role in sustaining global economic activity, and how governments around the world are finding new and innovative ways to support caregivers. For more information and a list of resources go to TheFutureAge.ca.Resources: The WEF’s Global Future Council on The Future of the Care Economy  Observatory of the Public Sector Innovation Case Study Library: Bogota Care Blocks  The Care Economy Statement  Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence   Tuktu Care  Caregiver Exchange | Share The Care  Barcelona Caring City  Government of Canada | Core Community Supports to Age in Community  Aging at Home: Cash-for-Care Models Reduce Institutionalization   Connect: Learn More:The Future Age  LinkedIn: SE Health   YouTube: SE Health   Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter / X  Connect w/ Zannat: LinkedIn  Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:09) - Defining the Care Economy (02:29) - The Role of Caregiving in the Global Economy (04:18) - Women and Care Work (06:11) - Time Poverty and Inequality (08:08) - What is a Well-Designed Care Economy? (11:24) - Care Blocks Initiative in Bogotá (12:46) - Government's Role in Care (16:15) - Corporate Responsibility and Care Infrastructure (17:11) - The Final Question (18:11) - Conclusion

The role of community design in promoting wellness at every age.In this episode of The Future Age podcast, we explore the concept of designing longevity communities with guests Dr. Katharine Smart, a pediatrician and former President of the Canadian Medical Association, and Nick Buettner, VP of Community Engagement at Blue Zones.   Katharine talks about how childhood experiences shape lifelong health, emphasizing the need for a shift in how we think about aging and its connection to early life. Key insights include the role of community design in promoting wellness at every age and how better support for young families can dramatically improve long-term health outcomes. Nick shares real-world examples of how policy, urban planning, and collaboration between sectors can create environments conducive to healthy, long-lived lives. For more information and a list of resources go to TheFutureAge.ca. Resources: The Future Age Podcast: Episode 5: Impact Networks A Measure Of Child And Youth Well-Being In Wealthy Countries: UNICEF Report Card16  The Martin Family Initiative: The Early Years  The Secrets of Long Life by Dan Buettner: National Geographic   Blue Zones: Partners With Public And Private Sector Leaders To Increase The Well-Being Of Communities.  Nick Buettner | Blue ZonesDr. Katharine Smart | LinkedIn    Connect: Learn More:The Future Age  LinkedIn: SE Health   YouTube: SE Health   Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter / X  Connect w/ Zannat: LinkedIn  Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:02) - Health Across All Ages (02:49) - Relational Health Initiatives (04:01) - Advocating for Relational Health Programs (05:08) - Funding for Child Well-being Programs (06:09) - Canada and Children’s Well-being (07:33) - Countries Excelling in Child Well-being (08:34) - Creating Supportive Environments (09:55) - The Final Question: Katharine Smart (11:04) - Lessons from Blue Zones (13:37) - Creating Longevity Hotspots (15:14) - Policies for Promoting Health and Wellness (16:44) - Successful Marquee Projects (17:36) - Obstacles to Implementing Longevity Initiatives (18:28) - Steps for Designing Longevity Communities (19:25) - Ingredients for Successful Blue Zone Projects (21:38) - Challenges and Lessons Learned (22:40) - The Final Question: Nick Buettner (23:12) - Conclusion

Reimagining Women's Health.In the first episode of season 2 of The Future Age podcast, host Zannat Reza explores the innovations and challenges in women's health with guests Rachel Bartholomew, founder at Femtech Canada, Femtech Across Borders and Hyivy Health, and Deborah Garlick, Director, Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace (Menopause Friendly U.K.). Rachel spotlights the critical gaps in women’s healthcare, the rise of femtech, and her drive to revolutionize outdated medical devices. Deborah discusses her mission to demystify menopause and create supportive workplace environments in the U.K., underscoring the importance of normalizing conversations around menopause to retain and empower women in their careers. Together, they shed light on the urgent need for bold ideas and systemic change to advance women's health on a global scale. For more information and a list of resources go to TheFutureAge.ca.  Resources: Rachel Bartholomew: LinkedIn Femtech: Connects Canadian companies in women’s health with the resources they need.Hyivy Health: A femtech company developing  the first smart pelvic health rehabilitation systemDeborah Garlick: LinkedIn  Menopause Friendly U.K.: Provides the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, an industry-recognized mark of excellence for menopause at work for U.K. employers. Menopause Foundation: A non-profit organization that advocates for the support women need in their menopausal years. Women’s Age Lab: A dedicated research centre at Women’s College Hospital focused on addressing the unique health and wellbeing needs of older women. Connect: Learn More:The Future Age  LinkedIn: SE Health   YouTube: SE Health   Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter / X  Connect w/ Zannat: LinkedIn  Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:06) - What is Femtech with Rachel Bartholomew (01:39) - Innovation in Women's Healthcare (02:54) - Hyivy Health (04:08) - Founding Femtech Canada (05:58) - Global Expansion of Femtech (06:21) - Advocacy in Women's Health (07:42) - Opportunities in Femtech (08:52) - Menopause Awareness with Deborah Garlick (10:39) - Henpicked in the Workplace (11:51) - Employee Advocacy for Menopause Support (13:04) - Impact of Menopause on Women's Careers (14:38) - Success Stories of Menopause-Friendly Workplaces (17:07) - Menopause Friendly Accreditation (18:02) - The Final Question (19:07) - Conclusion

From SE Health's the Future of Aging team, host Zannat Reza explores bold ideas and creative solutions for reimagining aging. Though we’re all getting older, this is about much more than our individual experiences. How can we influence the future of aging for all generations through policy, innovation and cultural shift? Tune in to discover how we can reshape society for a better aging experience—follow us wherever you get your podcasts.

Coming soon, an inspiring new season of The Future Age Podcast launching on September 18th. Host Zannat Reza from SE Health's the Future of Aging team returns with season two, exploring bold ideas and creative solutions for reimagining aging. Though we’re all getting older, this is about much more than our individual experiences. How can we influence the future of aging for all generations through policy, innovation and cultural shift? Tune in to discover how we can reshape society for a better aging experience—follow us wherever you get your podcasts

Host Zannat Reza and Dr. Trevor Hancock, co-founder of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, retired University of Victoria professor, and activist, as they delve into climate change through the lenses of planetary health and older adults. Trevor introduces the concept of a Well-being Society and the essential economic & mindset shifts that are required to move towards it. This includes innovative policy recommendations, like taxing robots and implementing wealth taxation,and the important changes that can be made locally and municipally.  Zannat and Trevor explore the ways that older and younger generations can be engaged and come together to create these changes, and his real-life work to make this happen in his own community. The episode concludes with a discussion on global awareness, future perspectives, and the potential for older adults to be agents of change. Listeners will be inspired to reassess their values, and join the movement towards a sustainable and thriving society. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Climate Change and Aging (04:18) - Building a Well-being Society and Reshaping the Economy (05:54) - Calling for a Well-being Society (08:42) - Restructuring Economics to create change (10:05) - How to Shift Mindsets and Foster Intergenerational Collaboration (14:09) - Using Impact Networks to Create a Social Movement (17:35) - Global Awareness and Future Perspectives (20:56) - Older Adults as Agents of Change (22:42) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

In this thought-provoking episode, host Zannat Reza explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and aging. Joined by experts Dr. Charlene Chu, assistant professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Nursing, and Stephen Johnston, founder of Fordcastle & Looking Forward, they delve into the practical applications of AI in improving the lives of older adults. Their expert insights highlight how AI can enhance healthcare delivery, from predicting conditions and managing medications to enabling independent living and international implementation and innovation.  However, the discussion doesn't shy away from the pitfalls, exploring how ageism creeps into the digital world, and what can be done to make sure AI is inclusive and as beneficial to older adults as it promises to be. We explore the ethical considerations of AI as well, the concept of digital resignation and consequences of unregulated AI data collection, who owns the data, controls it, and benefits from it.  Through this engaging conversation, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of AI and the importance of responsible and inclusive implementation. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:43) - Exploring the Potential of AI in Aging (04:24) - Addressing Ageism and Biases in AI for Aging (08:23) - Data Privacy and Smart Home Technology (10:37) - The Importance of Data Ownership and Transparency (12:59) - AI for Caregiving and Better Outcomes (14:44) - AI Solutions in the Aging Space (22:30) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

Join host Zannat Reza and Aislin O'Hara Kell, aging and accessibility innovation consultant, O'Hara Aging + Accessibility, as they explore the transformative potential of transportation solutions for older adults. They delve into the concept of transportation as a social determinant of health and its profound impact on the quality of life for older adults. Discover the advancements and innovation in other countries, such as volunteer driver programs and unique funding models. Gain insights into the challenges faced by municipalities in Canada and the importance of sustainable funding in creating age-friendly transportation systems.Moving forward, they emphasize the need for national conversations and partnerships to address shared challenges faced by communities across Canada. In this episode, discover the potential of inclusive design and innovation in transportation, where accessibility & flexibility is key to improving the quality of life for older adults.Chapters:(00:00) - Time Stamps: (00:00) - Introduction (01:04) - Transportation as a Social Determinant of Health (03:21) - Understanding Age-Friendly, Accessible Transportation (06:01) - Canada's Standing in Transportation Solutions (08:46) - Funding & Insurance Challenges in Canada (12:14) - Corporations Supporting Age-Friendly Transportation. (14:43) - Challenges and Considerations in Transportation Solutions (18:26) - Accessibility in Public Transportation, (21:32) - Exploring Technology’s Possibilities & Challenges (24:24) - Collaboration at All Levels is Essential (25:43) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

Explore the potential of Impact Networks in shaping the future of aging. Through conversation with David Ehrlichman, author of "Impact Networks," host Zannat Reza uncovers the concept & benefits of these purpose-driven networks, which bring together diverse groups, organizations, and stakeholders to address complex issues that no single entity can alone.  We learn about the principles of network mindset, cultivating trust, and the role of leadership in fostering effective collaboration through Impact Networks. Next, Zannat delves into the role & potential of Impact Networks in changing the aging landscape in Canada with John Yip, President & CEO of SE Health. They explore the importance of inter-generational relationships, grassroots groups, community engagement, and the fluidity of impact networks as an effective tool. They also discuss the challenges of taking action and the powerful role of storytelling and emotions in igniting social movements. In particular, they reflect on how the COVID-19 pandemic shed light on ageism and hopefully will lead to change for older adults. Join Zannat as we find new ways of tackling the complex world of aging through Impact Networks. Chapters:  (00:00) - What’s an Impact Network (02:00) - The Essence of Impact Networks (05:29) - Overcoming Challenges in Building Impact Networks (07:53) - Leadership and Cultivating Impact Networks (09:24) - Impact Networks Shaping the Future of Aging (12:10) - Importance of Multiple Generations (13:58) - Stakeholders in Impact Networks (17:03) - COVID-19 as a Tipping Point (18:04) - The Power of Storytelling (19:12) - Impact Networks in Action (20:42) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

Join Zannat Reza as she demystifies the complexity of aging in today's world. In this compelling episode of The Future Age, we delve into the captivating subject of aging, uncovering a side that is often unexplored in popular culture. The discussion kicks off with author Carl Honoré as they dissect the societal view of aging, revealing the nuances of the U-shaped happiness curve and how it drastically redefines our perception of happiness in older adulthood. The conversation spotlights the importance of a mindset shift, underlining the crucial role that society has in shaping narratives around aging.  As the episode progresses, the discussion takes a more pragmatic turn with the entrance of Shirlee Sharkey, the former CEO of SE Health. Focused on the tangible aspect of aging, the conversation explores universal home care, shedding light on how societies can become more age-friendly. Sharkey emphasizes the need for home care, illustrating the potential of adopting successful international models. The discussion also addresses the challenges and criticisms of implementation, before rounding off with an insightful look into the potential future of aging. This episode of The Future Age not only enlightens but also offers a thought-provoking perspective on aging in the modern world.Chapters:  (00:00) - Episode Introduction (04:05) - The Impetus Behind “Bolder” with Carl Honoré (06:30) - A Deep Dive into the U-Shaped Happiness Curve (09:30) - Societal Perceptions of Aging: Debunking Misconceptions (12:45) - The Unexpected Joys of Aging (14:02) - Positivity in Aging and Combating Ageism (15:00) - The Future of Aging with Shirlee Sharkey (15:12) - Rethinking the Approach to Aging (17:00) - Barriers to Thriving in Old Age (18:23) - The Case for Universal Home Care (20:00) - Shifting to Integrated Support Models (22:30) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

Dive into the world of agetech.  Host Zannat Reza navigates the promising field of agetech with Keren Etkin, a gerontologist, an agetech author, and host of the AgeTech Podcast. Together they delve into a world where technology meets aging, discussing the tremendous opportunities being unlocked by agetech startups and the unique challenges they face. They explore the transformative role of AI chat, such as GPT, in this space and address the critical issues around data privacy in the digital age.In the second part of the conversation, Keren introduces the concept of 'high-tech, high-touch' aging, envisioning a future where technology works in harmony with the human element in elder care. They discuss the financial side of agetech, exploring how venture capital plays a pivotal role in the growth of the industry. Additionally, they dig into the impact of initiatives like ENVISAGE in providing Canadian startups with a gateway to the burgeoning agetech market. This episode is a tour-de-force of the agetech landscape, offering a comprehensive outlook on how technology is reshaping our perception and experience of aging.Chapters: (00:00) - Episode Introduction (02:45) - Understanding AgeTech (08:00) - Agetech Startup Challenges (10:55) - AI and AgeTech Intersection (13:39) - The Importance of Data Privacy (15:40) - Role of an AgeTech Evangelist (17:30) - Funding in Age-Tech (19:30) - The ENVISAGE Initiative (20:00) - Current AgeTech Market Offerings (21:00) - - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

Retiring at 65: Is it an outdated idea?  Host Zannat Reza discusses retirement and its implications for our aging population. With over 37% of Canadians aged 50 and over claiming they can't afford to retire, is the notion of retiring at 65 outdated?  Zannat Reza talks with Lisa Taylor, author of The Talent Revolution and president of Challenge Factory, about the new era of work and aging. With our aging population and people living longer, traditional notions of retirement are quickly becoming outdated. Zannat and Lisa discuss the drivers of the future of work and how we can better use our years of expertise. They also address ageism in the workplace. They explain how ageism can cause employees to feel undervalued and unsupported, leading to a lack of engagement and productivity.  Lisa & Zannat offer advice for both employers and employees, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing ageism in the workplace. They also discuss the benefits of creating a workforce that values diversity in all its forms, including age diversity. Lisa also provides practical tips for organizations looking to engage and retain their older workers, Join the conversation about the future of work and aging.  Chapters: (00:00) - Episode Introduction (01:21) - Is retirement at 65 outdated? (03:15) - Demographics and Career Ownership (04:19) - Ageism in the workplace (08:17) - The Broken Talent Escalator (10:30) - Importance of Age Diversity (11:50) - Finding a Good Fit (12:40) - Engaging Older Workers (16:33) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

 Host Zannat Reza examines the potential future of 3D printed housing as a solution for providing age-friendly, affordable housing options for older adults. With 65% of older Canadians in the "missing middle" of housing options, meaning that they have few or no housing options that meet their financial, medical, functional, and personal preferences and needs, 3D printed housing offers a customizable and adaptable option to aging in place.  This episode explores examples of 3D printed housing projects sprouting up around the globe, including in Kenya and Dubai, and speaks with Ian Arthur, President of nidus3D, a construction company in Kingston, Ontario, about the benefits of 3D printed housing for older adults and how it can be adapted to meet their specific needs. Learn about the technology behind 3D printed homes, their unique features, and how they can help us live at home for longer.  Chapters: (00:00) - The Future Age Introduction (01:19) - 3D Printed Housing for Living (03:46) - 3D Printing Homes (05:27) - Building 3D Printed Houses (10:09) - Why aren't we building more 3D homes? (11:01) - Challenges and Opportunities for 3D Printed Housing (13:15) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

In this show introduction, host Zannat Reza provides a sneak peek into what listeners can expect from season 1, featuring teaser clips from some of the guests and topics. The Future Age as she previews the thought-provoking conversations and innovative ideas featured in season 1. The Future Age is podcast where we explore creative solutions and re-imagine what life as we get older can look like. Though we’re all getting older, this is about much more than our individual experiences. How can we influence the future of aging for all generations through policy, innovation and culture shift? (01:43) - Marker 01