Webinar series

Challenging ageism and fostering meaningful connections through an intergenerational university course

Presenter: Tabytha Wells, Trent University

Ageism is an issue of global concern that requires innovative programming and sustained awareness efforts to overcome. One of the most creative initiatives the RTOERO Foundation has funded in an effort to address ageism is the Intergenerational Psychology of Aging course at Trent University. This groundbreaking project integrated 13 older adults into the alongside 60 university students. In this webinar presentation, we discuss the challenges and opportunities of implementing an intergenerational university classroom and share some of the course’s outcomes related to ageism and intergenerational connectivity.

We All Have a Role: How to create dementia-inclusive communities

Presenters: Emma Bender, Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging; Kathy Hickman, Alzheimer Society of Ontario; Annie Robitaille, The University of Ottawa; Catharina van Es, The Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County

This discussion explores how individuals of different ages and stages of life – from youth to caregivers to those living with dementia – can contribute to creating a safe and inclusive space. Hear from experts in this field discuss their most recent RTOERO Foundation-funded projects including the creation of a toolkit for youth engagement, and the use of citizen science in understanding and improving the lives of those affected by dementia.

Benefits of visual arts-making for older adults in Canada

Presenters: Kate Dupuis, Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging; Cailey Massey, Artfull Enrichment

In this webinar we discuss the potential health and wellness benefits for older adults through participation in the arts, creativity, and self-expression. Results of a unique project, funded by the RTOERO Foundation involving over 300 older adults from across the country will be shared in this presentation.

Supporting your neighbours: Strategies for helping older adults experiencing social isolation

Presenter: Dana Zummach, Research Institute for Aging

As we get older the risk of social isolation increases significantly, so it’s critically important to continue to stay connected with family, friends and the community. In this webinar, we discuss social isolation, and present a new community conversation guide developed through a grant from the RTOERO Foundation, and provide tips and strategies for how to identify and help older adults who may be experiencing social isolation.

Rethinking Aging: Bridging the Health Gap for Older Women

Presenter: Dr. Paula Rochon, Women’s Age Lab

Women’s Age Lab is the first and only research centre of its kind – focused on supporting healthy aging for older women. This discussion describes what aging looks like today and highlights the importance of addressing the unique needs of older women. It provides valuable insights for building a more inclusive and sustainable future for all older adults. Several important topics are explored including reimagining aging in place, promoting social connectedness, and optimizing therapies for older adults.

Towards Age-Inclusive Virtual Environments

Presenters: Laura Tamblyn-Watts, CanAge; Shusmita Rashid , The Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI); Kara Brisson-Boivin, MediaSmarts

Join us along with CanAge, The Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI), and MediaSmarts, for an exciting discussion about the importance of digital literacy skills, how older adults can navigate and more fully participate in an increasingly digital society. Our presenters also discuss inclusive and age-friendly online communities, and how to optimize safety and security online.

Identifying opportunities to understand health outcomes in older adults with experiences of homelessness.

Presenter: Dr. Peter Hoang, Sinai Health and the University Health Network

Homeless persons are at an increased risk of poor health outcomes. Although older adults are the fastest growing users of emergency shelters, their health outcomes have not been well studied. This webinar discussion highlights the risk factors associated with homelessness in combination with components such as sex, gender, and culture, and its translation to health outcomes in older adults.

Your Dreams, Your Legacy

Presenters: Kevin Maynard, Canadian Foundation for Economic Education (CFEE); Suzie Graham, CFEE

Your Golden Years provide an opportunity to revisit your life ambitions and the mark you make on this world – today and tomorrow. This engaging webinar helps you explore your goals and objectives related to the legacy you create now and after your journey ends.

Aging in Place: A panel discussion

Presenters: Raza M. Mirza, HelpAge Canada; Dr. John Puxty, Centre for Studies in Aging and Health; Jen Recknagel, NORC Innovation Center at University Health Network

In this webinar, panelists discuss initiatives they are currently working on and highlight innovative trends in the area of aging in place. While not a new concept, aging in place is garnering more attention as seniors choose to stay in their homes and live independently as they get older.

Delirium: An overview of the causes, treatments and how YOU can help!

Presenter: Dr. Christina Reppas-Rindlisbacher, Women’s Age Lab

Delirium is a serious state of confusion that commonly impacts hospitalized older people. In this webinar we present an overview of this condition including its causes, treatments, and long-term impacts. We also discuss strategies that families and care partners can employ to help when loved ones are hospitalized or need surgery.