C.A.R.E senior event celebrates Saanich Peninsula seniors
Founded in 1995, CFUW Saanich Peninsula is dedicated to women’s and girl’s education and rights – and provides opportunities for Club members to socialize, educate and advocate
During B.C. Seniors Week, the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney will transform into a welcoming space for seniors and caregivers to learn from each other, partake in educational seminars, and share stories among friends.
This one-day C.A.R.E Senior event on Thursday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., promises a wealth of support for those navigating the journey of aging, especially those considering “aging in place” or transitioning to independent or assisted living arrangements.
The event, open to the public and free of charge, aims to eliminate barriers to access, ensuring seniors of all income levels and abilities can benefit from the social and educational opportunities.
“Experiencing the isolation of COVID-19 is what inspired us to create this event. We wanted to give control back to seniors who felt as if they had lost the freedoms in their life. We wanted to give seniors across Greater Victoria resources to help them enjoy their lives and connect with one another,” says event organizer Donna Miller.
Featuring an impressive lineup of 11 knowledgeable speakers covering a diverse range of topics crucial to seniors’ well-being, attendees can expect insights and advice from experts in various fields. From estate planning essentials with Paula Bowering from Beacon Law Centre to communication tips for the hard of hearing by Kristi Falconer and Amanda Windle of Island Deaf & Hard of Hearing, the event promises to enlighten and empower those in attendance.
With a curated exhibition area made up of 60 informational booths, attendees have direct access to organizations, agencies, and vendors offering services tailored to seniors’ needs.
Among the highlights is a talk by Lorna Crozier, an award-winning writer and poet, whose session titled “Aging Out Loud” promises to be a celebration of life’s later chapters, infused with poetry and wisdom.
Additionally, attendees can delve into crucial topics including medical assistance in dying (MAID) with insights from Dr. Stefanie Green of the Clinicians Advisory Council and caregiving challenges explored by Ibukun Babarinde of Family Caregivers of BC.
The day concludes with a guided panel discussion moderated by international lawyer Diane Turner, focusing on Peninsula age-friendly initiatives and future prospects.
Don’t miss out on this comprehensive and informative event, designed to celebrate and support Island seniors! Visit the C.A.R.E Senior Event on June 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney. For more information visit cfuwsaanichpeninsula.org/carefair.