Let's Chat About Aging In Your Community

This week on the podcast, CEO Christina Bisanz speaks to Dr. Raza Mirza, Florene Shruber, Alexis Hart, and Jessica Hsieh, who are all key contributors to University of Toronto’s Aging and Health Course’s intergenerational classroom in partnership with Christie Gardens Retirement Residence. This innovative and experiential learning experience brings two generations together to study aging from different perspectives, bringing learning to a new level and redefining what makes a “classroom”. Described as a wonderful, energetic, and mind-blowing experience, this unique course is one of the few dedicated to aging at the University, offering growth opportunities for all ages. Dr. Mirza is the Director of National Partnerships at HelpAge Canada and an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto. Florene Shruber is an advocate and educator, formerly the principal of Montessori Teachers' College & Montessori Dementia Program. Alexis Hart holds an Honors BSc in Human Biology and Psychology and was part of the program’s first undergraduate cohort. Jessica Hsieh, a PhD candidate at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, specializes in gerontology, focusing her research on elder abuse in dementia caregiving. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, CEO Christina Bisanz and CEO Amy Coupal from the Ontario Caregiver Organization discuss the journey of caregiving, how to connect caregivers with support, the importance of caregivers having a voice in the health care system, a National Caregiving Strategy, and resources available for caregivers. Amy Coupal is a leader with over 20 years experience in the not-for-profit sector, Amy is passionate about mobilizing change through knowledge exchange and building collaborative initiatives that positively impact the lives of individuals and communities. The Ontario Caregiver Organization is a charitable organization that exists to support Ontario’s 4 million caregivers who provide physical and/or emotional support to family members, partners, friends, and neighbours.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

CHATS CEO Christina Bisanz speaks to Lisa Gonsalves, who is the Acting Commissioner, Community and Health Services at the Municipality of York Region. Lisa has been with York Region for over 23 years in different roles. She served as the General Manager for the Paramedic and Senior Services, as well as Director of Strategies and Partnerships. Lisa Gonsalves currently serves as the Board Chair for the United Way of Greater Toronto and has a long list of accolades in her roles. Learn about the York Region Seniors Plan and Strategy, services within the York Region municipalities, seniors aging in place, and information for Access York. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mary Bayliss is the Chair of the Board of Directors for CHATS - Community & Home Assistance to Seniors, a non-profit organization providing a wide range of community support services to help seniors live at home safely, affordably, and with dignity.With a diverse background in healthcare governance and senior leadership roles, Mary brings extensive experience to her position at CHATS. She has served on numerous boards and advisory councils, including the Ontario Long Term Care Association, Canadian Association of Chain Drug Stores, and Ryerson University's School of Nutrition and Food Science Advisory Council. She serves on various town committees, including the Audit Committee, Heritage Advisory Council, and the Anti-Black Racism Taskforce.Mary's passion for supporting seniors and promoting healthy aging aligns perfectly with CHATS' mission. Her insights and expertise will undoubtedly shed light on the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare and aging in our community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.