TLC Health and Wellness Fair
Panels & Sessions
Morning Sessions - 10:00AM - 10:45AM
Elder Abuse & Sage Seniors Safe House - Rachel Augustine
The Alberta Government estimates that 1 in 10 Albertan seniors may encounter elder abuse. Are you familiar with how to identify and address abuse? This session lightly touches on the issue of elder abuse, emphasizes the significance of understanding available resources in Edmonton, and offers guidance on how to support a friend who is experiencing abuse. While this topic may be sensitive in nature, this workshop will focus on how to provide support. Feel free to bring your questions, as this will be an informative opportunity to learn about such a pertinent and significant subject.
Avoiding Stress & Drama When Executing An Estate - Gina Vliet, Change Specialist Charon Consulting
This information session offers best practices in helping Executors mitigate common issues around stressful family situations while executing a Will. Whether you are an Executor, Executor-in-Waiting, or Estate Owner, you will find something useful to help reduce stress through the executorship process for everyone involved.
Bring your questions and your curiosity!
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I Used To, and I Want To - Kyle Babiuk, BKin CSEP-CEP
Do you ever find yourself saying “I used to be able to…”? Join Kyle Babiuk from Alberta Health Services for an engaging and thought-provoking presentation of how to connect the loss of functional movement to thriving in aging. Learn how to rethink and change how you move as you age.
Panel 1: Mental Health & Older Adults
10:00AM - 10:45AM
As individuals age, they often face unique challenges such as physical health decline, loss of loved ones, retirement, and societal changes, which can impact their mental well-being. Common mental health issues among older adults include depression, anxiety, dementia, and substance abuse. However, these conditions are not a natural part of aging and can be effectively treated with appropriate interventions. This panel of experts will explore what mental health looks like in older adults as well as talk about preventive measures that promote good mental health.
Mid-Morning Sessions - 11:15AM - 12:00PM
Benefits of Recreational Therapeutic Programming
Eden Claire Pullona & Sofia-Rose Breier
The Benefits of Recreational Therapeutic Programming on the Well-Being of Seniors in the Community: Join Sofia-Rose Breier and Eden Claire Pullona for an enlightening presentation on the transformative benefits of recreational therapeutic programming for seniors' well-being. As our population ages, it becomes increasingly vital to explore innovative approaches to promote health and happiness among older adults. This presentation will delve into the profound impact of tailored recreational activities on seniors' physical, emotional, and cognitive health, including the importance of supporting Adult Day Programs (ADPs) providing these services in the community.
Sound Bath Experience for Seniors’ Wellness - Dagmar Sanchez
Experience a moment of tranquility and relaxation with our "Crystal Resonance" Sound Bath Wellness demo tailored for the Active Older Population. Led by experienced practitioner Dagmar Sanchez, this brief session invites participants to immerse themselves in the soothing vibrations of sound, promoting a sense of inner peace and harmony. Through gentle sounds and vibrations, participants will have the opportunity to unwind, release tension, and rejuvenate their senses. This uplifting experience is designed to promote overall well-being and vitality in the senior community.
Psychedelics Today - Michelle Brewer
Do you know that psychedelics became legal in Alberta in January 2023? Yes, you can take LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, MDMA and others when prescribed by a psychiatrist for therapeutic purposes. Some are hailing this psychedelic renaissance as these medicines have better results for dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction and PTSD than most psychiatric drugs. Michelle is a member of the Association of Counseling Therapy of Alberta and has been in practice for 10 years.
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Eight Pieces of Silk Chi Gong Form - Sifu Eric Budd
Eight pieces of silk is a famous qigong (chi gong) form that has been practiced for centuries by the Shaolin monks of China. It is a beautiful form that cultivates the mind, body and spirit and promotes good health with daily practice. Hosted by Sifu Eric from Chiu Lau Kung Fu College, we will review the eight basic movements of this qigong form and practice together. The form can be done standing or seated, no experience necessary!
Panel 2: Senior Housing in Alberta
11:15AM - 12:00PM
This panel of experts will discuss the range of options available to all older adults, including the option to remain in one's own home. When considering your options, there is much to think about, research, and plan for. Whether remaining in your home or transitioning to a new place, the aim is to promote aging with dignity and independence. With the panel, you will explore aging in place, transitioning, and downsizing.
Afternoon Sessions - 1:15PM - 2:00PM
Intro to Meditation - Kushok Lobsang Dhamchöe
The benefits of meditation are well established: reduced stress, increased joy, improved mental resilience, and a host of physical health improvements. We all want the benefits of a mindful life, but for many of us the question is: “How do I begin?” Join Kushok for this class to learn the fundamentals of mindfulness meditation, and to lay the foundation for your personal meditation practice under the guidance of a qualified teacher.
Prepare Rather Than Repair - Alex Paterson
If I am more likely to get injured or sick as I get older and will require more time to recover, what can I do to prepare? One thing about accidents and illness is they don’t stop occurring when we turn 65, so why does coverage stop at the time when it may be needed most? Or does it? Alex will discuss the options available for seniors and the questions to ask when preparing for the inevitable as seniors.
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Yoga For Joy - Timmie Horvath
Join us for a rejuvenating and uplifting "Yoga for Joy" Chair Yoga Class! In this 45-minute session, we will guide you through a series of gentle yoga poses using a chair and breathing exercises that are accessible and safe for all fitness levels. Yoga for Joy is not just about physical exercise; it's about nourishing your mind, body, and spirit. Through the practice of gentle stretches, we will release tension, improve flexibility, and enhance balance. Our focus on mindful breathing will help cultivate a sense of inner calm and relaxation, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. No prior yoga experience is required. Whether you are a beginner or have been practicing for years, "Yoga for Joy" is designed to meet you where you are on your wellness journey.
The Impact of Caregiving on Relationships - Johnna Lowther
We try to balance our time between caregiving and family relationships. However, this is easier said than done. Join us to talk about maintaining relationships through change, improving communication strategies, and adjusting to the new "normal" in caregiving.
Panel 3: Living Strong - 1:15PM - 02:00PM
What are the secrets to living strong as you age? Explore this idea with a panel of older adults who are doing just that. What are the key elements to living well and healthy? How has their life path influenced their decisions in their “golden” years? What advice can they provide to others who want to live life to its fullest? This should be a fun and engaging panel discussion.