Aging Vibrantly : Conversations to Empower Seniors Podcast By Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario cover art

Aging Vibrantly : Conversations to Empower Seniors

Aging Vibrantly : Conversations to Empower Seniors

By: Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario
Listen for free

Welcome to the Aging Vibrantly podcast, where we amplify the voices of seniors who impart their expertise and wisdom, to enhance our understanding of aging issues and ways of living a safe and fulfilling life with respect and dignity. Join Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario for conversations with senior leaders, advocates, and experts in the field of aging — representing diverse populations and perspectives. These discussions promote age-inclusivity, amplify lived experiences, and through shared wisdom, address key issues affecting the fastest-growing demographic in Canada. Guests impart their expertise and wisdom to empower listeners through knowledge, conversation, and community to enhance our understanding of aging issues to reduce ageism, prevent elder abuse, and living a safe and fulfilling life with respect and dignity. This podcast is produced and edited by The Podcast Experts and funded by HelpAge Canada. Be sure to check out our YouTubue Channel at: https://eapon.ca/podcast/ or visit www.eapon.ca to learn more about elder abuse prevention.2024 Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Stitching Stories: An Anishinaabek View on Aging Well

    Stitching Stories: An Anishinaabek View on Aging Well
    Mar 25 2026
    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 ...
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Libraries: A Community Hub for Older Adults

    Libraries: A Community Hub for Older Adults
    Jan 28 2026
    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.
    Show more Show less
    54 mins
  • Men's Sheds Canada: Community Friendships and Connections

    Men's Sheds Canada: Community Friendships and Connections
    Dec 17 2025
    In this episode of Aging Vibrantly we learn about the Men's Sheds in Canada. Men's Sheds provide welcoming spaces where men - often older or retired - get together in their community to share experiences and skills, discover new interests, make new friends, support each other and contribute to their communities. For many men, aging and retirement can lead to loneliness and a loss of purpose, but Men's Sheds, a unique and growing movement, is addressing these issues among older men across Canada! As men age, maintaining relationships and community connections becomes increasingly critical in combating loneliness and isolation, which can have serious health consequences, including increased risk of mortality, heart disease, stroke, and dementia. In this episode, you will learn how Sheds are making significant impacts to strengthen both men's lives and their communities - and how these grassroots initiatives are playing a vital role in providing older men with a safe and supportive space in their local community to build friendships, share experiences and connect with their peers. Men find renewed purpose, engagement in their community that is reducing their risk of social isolation and its negative effects on their mental and physical health. By the end of the episode, we hope you will be inspired to start a Men's Shed in your community. Until next time - Stay Vibrant! _____________________________ Episode Resources: Websites: Men's Sheds Canadahttps://mensshedscanada.ca Men's Sheds Canada Researchhttps://mensshedscanada.ca 10 Health and Wellness Facts for Older Men participating in Men's Shed www.mensshedscanada.ca Men's Sheds in the News The Giving Kind—Squamish Men's Shed gives $1,200 to Squamish Food bank www.squamishchief.com Coquitlam Men's Shed celebrates 10 years! www.tricitylocalnews.com/coquitlam Men's Shed leads national grassroots efforts to build toys for kids impacted by wildfires www.arnpriorregionalhealth.ca/mens-shed SHEDtalk Video: Are you retired and looking to bring some purpose into your life? Robert Goluch, President of Men's Sheds Canada www.facebook.com/reel Our Guests: Robert Goluch, President of Men's Sheds Canada Rober grew up in Northwestern Quebec and spent most of his career in leadership positions at colleges in Ontario, Alberta, and Manitoba, as well as with the Government of Manitoba. Robert also worked part-time in media as a journalist and a radio broadcaster. A firm believer in giving back to the community, he served on boards of many Non- Profit organizations. Including, as Chair of the Prairie Region Citizen Advisory Committee with Corrections Canada for which he was recognized nationally with the James A. Murphy Award of Excellence. In 2017, Robert moved to Squamish, B.C. and looking for potential volunteer opportunities, stumbled on the Squamish Men's Shed. Since then, he served as its President, as well as Vice-President of the Men's Shed Association of B.C., and now as President of Men's Sheds Canada. In 2021, he chaired and hosted the first provincial Men's Shed Conference in Squamish, BC. Brian Sawyer, Operations Manager of Men's Sheds Canada Brian has been involved in organizational development for over four decades with provincial (Alberta) and federal government agencies. With a M.Sc. in Earth Science, he lectured for 10 years at the University of Alberta and now supports education for seniors with the Edmonton Lifelong Learners Association. Brian has always devoted time to the non-profit sector, receiving a 'Volunteer of the Year' award from United Way of Edmonton in 2021. He has been involved in men's wellness programs for 25 years with the ManKind Project, and five years with Men's Sheds Association of Edmonton and Men's Sheds Canada. He is passionate about helping create a vibrant community of thriving Sheds across Canada. Brian is your first point of contact as all General Enquiries about Men's Sheds. ______________________________ Credits : Podcast Coordinator: Lisa Widdifield Producer: Todd Miller, The Podcast Experts Co-Host: Sherry Baker, 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...
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 5 mins
No reviews yet