2026 Health Talks
10:30 am
Downsizing Made Easy
Speaker: Ian Thompson, Seniors Relocation Specialist, Ian Thompson Personal Real Estate Corporation
Practical tips for those considering a move, a step by step plan to follow. Helps seniors
move forward with confidence. Discouver how and where to start the process, options for
moving from renting to buying to retirement residences.
About Ian: As Canada's only Certified Senior Housing Professional, Ian brings a wealth of practical
knowledge for those considering a move later in life. He has helped hundreds of seniors transition to
what's next.
10:30 am
Shared Living, Shared Care: A New Approach to Aging at Home
Speakers: Angela Bell, Dangira Eggo and Andrew Bell, Owners, enABell Health Inc
As the demand for senior care continues to grow, it is important to explore innovative solutions that help seniors remain independent while accessing the support they need. This presentation introduces the concept of Shared Living, Shared Care a model where a small group of seniors share a home environment and access live-in caregiver support together. We will discuss how this approach can reduce isolation, improve affordability, increase access to care, and provide peace of mind for families. Join us as we explore how community-based care models may help shape the future of aging at home. Attendees will learn about alternative approaches to aging at home and how innovative care models can help address challenges such as affordability, social isolation, caregiver shortages, and access to support. They will gain practical ideas for creating stronger support networks, exploring shared living arrangements, and planning proactively for future care needs. Participants will leave with a better understanding of the resources, conversations, and community partnerships that can help seniors remain independent, connected, and safe in their own homes for longer regardless of whether they use our services.
About enAbell Health: At enABell Health Inc., we believe everyone deserves access to
affordable, high-quality care. As owners, we are passionate about creating meaningful change
in the home support industry by listening to our communities and responding to their needs.
Through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, we strive to make quality
care more accessible while improving the experience for clients, families, and caregivers alike.
We invest heavily in training and developing our caregivers to enhance their skills and deliver
outstanding care. We are also continuously exploring new and innovative care models that best
serve the evolving needs of our community.
11:30 am
Navigating the Healthcare System
Speaker: Judy Cook, Owner & Healthcare Navigator, Graceful Journeys
The BC healthcare system is difficult to navigate. Without specific knowledge of how it
operates, patients receive fragmented care and families are left struggling. Graceful
Journeys provides the direct, tactical education required to manage complex medical
situations and ensure patient rights are respected. Learn general guidlines of what to
expect and what is expected of you in the Health Care system.
About Judy: Judy Cook is an independent healthcare navigator with 25 years experience in the
healthcare field as a Unit Clerk at NRGH. I have started a business to support people who are
struggling to navigate the healthcare system. With the communication challenges in the healthcare system, it is vitally important to have someone knowledgeable to help you get the answers you need to your specific challenging situation.
11:30 am
Elder College is Alive and Well
Speaker: Dr. Robin Fisher, President, Mid Island Elder College
Robin will talk about the recent development of Elder College as an independent society,
the range of courses and programs that we offer throughout the Oceanside region and why
they do it. On the last point he will emphasize the size of the senior population in our area
and health benefits for individuals and communities of teaching and learning for seniors.
Elder College's mission statement is to "drive the growth of a community of life long
learning and well being." Attendees will learn about the courses that are offer, where to
find them and how to register. They will hear about how teaching and learning is a crucial
part of good health for seniors.
About Robin: Robin Fisher is the President of Mid Island Elder College. He a historian by profession, a
New Zealander by birth and a Canadian by choice. Before retiring in Nanaimo he worked at several
universities in western Canada. He teaches courses at Elder College on British Columbia history and
has written several prize winning books on that subject. He believes that teaching and learning is a
crucial part of individual well-being and social health.
12:30 pm
Reverse Mortgage: Fact vs Fiction
Speaker: Damien Ross, Licensed Mortgage Broker, Damien Ross Mortgages
Reverse mortgages are often misunderstood, leaving many homeowners unsure whether
they're a good option or something to avoid. In this informative, no-pressure presentation,
mortgage broker Damien Ross will separate fact from fiction, explain how reverse
mortgages really work, and discuss the most common myths surrounding them. You'll learn
who they may be suitable for, their benefits and potential drawbacks, and how they
compare to other retirement financing options, giving you the knowledge to make informed
decisions about your future.
About Damien: Damien Ross is a licensed mortgage broker serving clients across British Columbia and
Alberta, specializing in helping homeowners aged 55+ understand whether a reverse mortgage is the
right fit for their retirement goals. He takes an education-first approach, explaining all available options
in plain language so clients can make informed decisions with confidence. Whether you're looking to
increase cash flow, eliminate mortgage payments, fund home renovations, or help family financially,
Damien provides personalized advice with no pressure just honest guidance tailored to your needs.
1:30 pm
The 10 Most Valuable Resources for Seniors on Vancouver Island
Speaker: Mathieu Powell, CEO, Seniors101.ca
Did you know there are dozens of programs, services, and benefits available to seniors on
Vancouver Island that many people never discover? This informative presentation highlights
ten of the most valuable resources that can help older adults live more safely,
independently, and affordably. Learn about government benefits, transportation programs,
caregiver support, housing resources, meal services, health programs, and local
organizations dedicated to helping seniors thrive. Whether you are a senior planning ahead
or a family member supporting a loved one, you'll leave with practical information, useful
contacts, and local resources that can make a real difference in everyday life. Attendees
will take away a sheet with the 10 valuable resources, with links to more information
allowing they or their family members to do a deeper dive into the subject matter.
About Mathieu: Mathieu Powell heads up Seniors Media Inc. and Seniors101.ca which excels in creating rich, multi-media content to help seniors and their families on Vancouver Islan meaningfully connect with people, products, and resources. He has served in a variety of senior service organizations, and co-produces the Greater Victoria, Cowichan Valley, and Nanaimo Seniors™ Directories with Roy Summerhayes.
Mathieu loves the amazing life stories seniors can tell. He is enamoured by the power of stories. Through stories, we find empathy, through empathy, understanding, through understanding, peace, and though peace, healing. We can't carry another's burdens, but we can bear witness to their stories, lighten their loads, and find a common ground of agreement.
1:30 pm
Draft to Done: How to Finish the Book on the Back Burner
Speaker: Mali Bain, Founder, NextGen Story: Custom Publishing
This workshop walks through the steps involved in moving from "I've done some writing"
to "I have a finished book!". Whether you have journal entries to review, photos scanned,
or a first draft in the works - knowing the journey ahead of you allows you to make best
use of your time and energy. More than 81% of people want to finish a book, only 11% do
so: learn to avoid the most common pitfalls and prepare to share your book with family,
friends - and the world (if you wish)!
About Mali: Mali Bain is a former high school teacher with a background working in university,
non-profit, and philanthropic settings. She holds a B.A. (UBC), B.Ed. (SFU), and an M.A. in Adult
Learning and Education (UBC). Twenty-five years ago, she helped her grandmother publish a life story.
Mali went on to author a book about her family history, and has since supported dozens of families to
complete their book projects through the company she founded, NextGen Story: Custom Publishing.
Listen to a great Senior program every week on community radio
Tune into CHLY 101.7 FM and have a listen!
Every Monday tune in at 1:00pm to Act 3 with Cathy Holmes to listen to many of the NSSN Members as guests on the show!
