March 28
Introduction to Line Dancing
Ready to boot-scoot your way to better health and happiness? Line dancing isn’t just about kicking up your heels – it’s about connecting with friends, having a good laugh, and enjoying the simple pleasure of moving to the beat. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to stay fit.
So, grab those dancing shoes and join us for a FREE introductory session with Val Hardy. Everyone welcome.
Annual Membership $5 and Drop-In Fee $2.
Learn more here
March 28
Discover e-Bikes
Elevation Outdoors and CRIS Adaptive Adventures have an array of types and sizes of E-bikes to help everyone feel the wind in their hair.
Kelowna Bike Rentals is a socially responsible bike rental provider that supports two local non-profit organizations, CRIS Adaptive (Community Recreational Initiatives Society), and Elevation Outdoors. Our goal is to help residents and visitors alike discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Okanagan region. By choosing to rent a bike from us, you can enjoy the stunning trails, pathways, and parks of Kelowna while also making a positive impact on the community.
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co-hosted with
Elevation Outdoors learn more here
CRIS Adaptive Adventures learn more here
March 28
Choose to move
A free physical activity support program at the YMCA of Southern Interior BC is helping older, physically inactive adults. Choose to Move is a three-month choice-based group facilitation program that guides participants in creating a healthy routine. Participants will receive an initial one-on-one consultation and attend regular motivational group meetings. Developed by the University of British Columbia’s Active Aging Research Team and the Active Aging Society, Choose to Move provides participants with evidence-based resources and support to transition into an active lifestyle.
“After starting the program, I feel stronger and less fatigued, my bloodwork has improved, and the activity has also helped with the side effects of my medication,” states a program participant. “The program helped motivate me and got me out of the house to socialize more.”
Learn more here
March 27
Clinical trials and ways to get involved
An initiative of Michael Smith Health Research BC, REACH BC offers researchers in British Columbia a reliable research platform where volunteers are matched with health research studies and the researchers involved, based on their chosen health categories.
Presenters:
Alison Orth, Portfolio Director, Research Programs, Michael Smith Health Research BC
Justine Clayton, REACH BC Coordinator
Larry Mroz, Patient-Oriented Research Capacity Development Lead, BC SUPPORT Unit
Learn more here
Learn more here
March 26
Estate planning essentials – What you need to know
Estate planning may seem like something only millionaires do, but the truth is, everyone needs an estate plan, no matter how much money you have. Learn how you can avoid the common pitfalls and how to maximize the benefits of planning your estate. Experts in estate planning from Interior Savings and FH&P Lawyers will help make the complexities of estate planning seem clear and answer your questions.
Presenters:
Doug McMechan, Estate Planning Specialist, Interior Savings Estate Planning
Dylan Switzer, Managing Partner, FH&P
Zach Smith, Tax Partner, KPMG
March 26
Research in action: Virtual Reality (VR) for older adults
In this presentation, insights from latest research on virtual reality for older adults, focusing on creation of this novel technology with older adults and opportunities for social connection are shared.
Presenter:
Jaisie Sin, PhD
Assistant Professor, School of Information Technology
Faculty of Engineering and Design, Carleton University
March 25
This is not our parent’s hearing
Leighanne shared how we hear, how our brains work with sound and language, and how we are not aging like our parents did. This will be a fun, informative discussion of how far we have come to understand hearing, human communication, and preventative supports to keep us communicating.
Presenter:
Leighanne Hebein, BC-HIS, RHIP
Learn more here
March 25
Navigating grief and loss in later life
Join us as we explore the different types of death related grief, including anticipatory and prolonged grief. Learn helpful coping strategies to support a journey to find hope and healing for the future.
Presenter:
Ian Kunitski, Director of Programs and Services,
Central Okanagan Hospice Association
Learn more here
March 24
Pole Walking Clinic
Learn how Pole Walking engages your whole body!
Please join Sheri Simson for an introduction and demonstration to Pole Walking. Learn the difference between regular walking and Pole Walking and its added benefits. Plus, you will have a chance to try Pole Walking out for yourself.
Presenter
Sheri Simson, Pole Walking professional
Keen Fit Pole Walking
Learn more here
March 24
YMCA Mingle Monday – Kelowna Family Y
A free monthly social for ages 55+
Mingle Mondays is a great opportunity to meet new people, make friends and socialize while enjoying a light snack.
This program is free for non-members and no sign-up is necessary. Hosted every 3rd Monday of each month at this location.
Please drop-in any time between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. – No registration is necessary
Kelowna Family Y – Learn more here
March 24
Bone Health 101
This presentation provides a general overview on what is osteoporosis, how to maintain good bone health to reduce the risk of the disease and related osteoporotic fractures, and fall prevention.
Presenter:
Lynne, Osteoporosis Canada Volunteer Educator
Osteoporosis Canada: learn more here
March 21
Aging is a fact of life – but how people age is up to them
Presenter:
Jennifer Jakobi, Professor
School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development, UBC Okanagan
March 20
Navigating perimenopause and menopause through established facts and emerging discoveries
Although we cannot change the transitional perimenopausal processes, understanding of them helps, as does social/occupation/emotional support. Controlled trial evidence showed that daily progesterone significantly improved night sweats, sleep problems and the “interference of perimenopause with daily activities”. In this presentation, we explore the established scientific understanding of perimenopause and menopause, along with emerging research and technologies aimed at improving knowledge and management. This includes advancements in bioengineering, in vitro models, and novel therapeutic approaches aimed at improving women’s health during this life stage.
Presenters:
Jerilynn C. Prior, BA, MD, FRCPC
Professor of Medicine—Endocrinology and Metabolism
University of British Columbia Vancouver
Marcia de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz, PhD
Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich and Toronto Zoo
LEARN MORE HERE: The Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research
March 20
Bugs ‘r us: Healthy living and aging with our microbes
This presentation discusses what the microbiome is, and more importantly its impact on healthy aging. This includes various ways to improve your microbiome such as diet, and its association with both health and disease.
Presenter:
B. Brett Finlay, PhD, OBC, OC
Michael Smith Laboratories
Faculty of Science, Microbiology and Immunology
University of British Columbia Vancouver
March 19
Technology in care: balancing benefits and challenges
Introducing new technologies like virtual reality (VR) and social robots in long-term care (LTC) brings both opportunities and challenges. While these tools can enhance engagement, emotional support, and well-being, they also raise ethical and practical concerns such as access, staff training, and resident acceptance. This presentation shares useful insights and discuss practical tips from real-world examples on how technology can be used effectively and responsibly into everyday care.
Presenters:
Lillian Hung, RN PhD
Canada Research Chair in Senior Care
Associate Professor, School of Nursing
University of British Columbia Vancouver
Mario, Patient Partner
March 18
Thriving through time: harnessing exercise and technology to combat chronic diseases in aging
In this talk, we explore the powerful role of exercise in impacting the physiology of type 2 diabetes and cancer as we age, with insights into how cutting-edge technology can enhance health outcomes. Learn how embracing movement and innovation can transform the aging process and promote vitality in later years.
Presenter:
Jonathan Low, PhD
Health and Wellness Lab, Faculty of Kinesiology;
Riddell Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology,
Cumming School of Medicine;
University of Calgary
March 17
Aging in Place – Making it your choice. A Social and Intergenerational Experience
Dr. Jakobi will present and co-lead an activity to support physical and social engagement across generations that informs older adults choices to age-in-place.
Presenter:
Jennifer Jakobi, Professor
School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development
University of British Columbia Okanagan
Hosted by the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Vernon
March 17
YMCA Mingle Monday – H20 Adventure/Fitness Centre
A free monthly social for ages 55+
Mingle Mondays is a great opportunity to meet new people, make friends and socialize while enjoying a light snack.
This program is free for non-members and no sign-up is necessary. Hosted every 3rd Monday of each month at this location.
Please drop-in any time between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. – No registration is necessary
H20 Adventure/Fitness Centre – Learn more here
March 15
Inter-generational STEM
Intergenerational STEM is an opportunity for youth and parents, grandparents, or caregivers to come together and participate in a variety of hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) learning activities. We are excited to support people in increasing their understanding of STEM and provide engaging opportunities for participants.
Hosted by Westcoast Women in Engineering, Science and Technology (WWEST)
Learn more here
March 15
Floral Fantasy Gala
Please join Age-Link Society for their Floral Fantasy Gala! Enjoy activities, performance by university social clubs, and lunch while meeting new people and making connections.
Performance * Painting * Trivia * Fashion Show * Refreshments
Semi-Formal dress with a floral flair
Learn more here
March 15
Discover birdwatching
Join us on a short guided walk/roll through Munson Pond Park while we look for birds and other nature. We’ll be discussing what birdwatching is and how it can be a different experience for everyone. Expect a short (less than 1 km), slow, accessible, and quiet walk with a couple of naturalists who are nuts about birds.
Wear warm clothing and proper footwear/tires for an accessible, gravel walk. Bring binoculars and any field guides (even pictures). We will have extra guides on hand for you too. Access to birding apps if you would like.
No dogs except working companions please.
Presenters: Jim and Melanie Fenton
Learn more here Merlin Bird ID
Learn more here eBird
March 18
Thriving through time: harnessing exercise and technology to combat chronic diseases in aging
In this talk, we explore the powerful role of exercise in impacting the physiology of type 2 diabetes and cancer as we age, with insights into how cutting-edge technology can enhance health outcomes. Learn how embracing movement and innovation can transform the aging process and promote vitality in later years.
Presenter:
Jonathan Low, PhD
Health and Wellness Lab, Faculty of Kinesiology;
Riddell Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology,
Cumming School of Medicine;
University of Calgary
10 lesser-known ways your pharmacist can help you meet your healthcare goals
We typically think of pharmacists as the professionals who dispense our medications, answer our medication questions, and ensure that our medications are going to be safe and effective. But we can utilize our pharmacists for so much more! From prescribing for minor ailments and ordering lab tests to ensuring we are using climate conscious medications, this presentation covers some of the lesser-known ways that pharmacists can help us achieve our healthcare goals.
Presenter:
Jennifer Bolt, BScPharm, PharmD, MHA
Research and Development Pharmacist, Interior Health
March 12
Shopping Healthy and Canadian – Considerations as we age
Jacqueline Parsons (Registered Dietitian) and Rebecca Frechette (Clinical Exercise Physiologist) host this grocery store tour, which is a hands-on education session to help you further develop a healthy approach to the food and drinks you choose. Making healthy food choices and understanding food labels can be challenging. Join on this 1-hour tour to help you become a more confident shopper while considering important nutrition topics related to aging.
Clinicians as data curators: Implications for data quality
This presentation discusses clinician roles in shaping data quality in electronic health records and digitalized health systems. Impacts on downstream data use and clinical care provision are also discussed.
Presenter:
Charlene Ronquillo, RN, PhD
School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Development
University of British Columbia Okanagan
Designing technologies to support learning and social connection for older adults
Joanna presents two new technologies that are being developed in her lab. HelpCall enables older adults to get technology assistance over a remote video call such as Zoom. LegacySphere facilitates intergenerational communication in embodied virtual reality.
Presenter:
Joanna McGrenere, Professor and Co-Head Department of Computer Science
University of British Columbia Vancouver
eDAPT lab: Learn More
Seniors Health Assessment
The YMCA hosted a FREE seniors health assessment to help you start an exercise routine to increase your physical activity and maintain a healthy long-term lifestyle. Students from the School of Health and Exercise Sciences at UBC Okanagan helped with the assessments!!
“We want to show older adults where to start when it comes to exercise while also providing a supportive community that will help them achieve their goals. Providing a space to be both social and active helps participants stick with a routine,” says YMCA health promotions manager, Adriane Long.
Each assessment is approximately one hour and includes testing of cardiovascular endurance, balance, flexibility, blood pressure, strength, agility, and more. Please wear comfortable footwear and clothing.
YMCA of Southern Interior BC – Learn more here
Thriving Together: Nurturing Seniors’ Mental Health
In this workshop, learning the key aspects of senior mental health, including common mental health challenges faced by older adults and barriers that hinder wellness were presented. Participants discussed the impact of social isolation on mental well-being and the critical role of social connection in promoting health. The workshop included engaging cognitive exercises to stimulate mental wellness and provides an overview of local resources available to support senior mental health.
Presenters:
Paige Johnston, Practicum Student, CMHA
Master of Social Work Program, UBC Okanagan
Hannah
Age-Link Society
Mikayla Angle, Community Education Coordinator, CMHA Kelowna
CMHA Kelowna – Learn more here
Current issues for British Columbia seniors – with Dan Levitt, Seniors Advocate
Dan discussed the current issues faced by seniors in British Columbia.
Presenter:
Dan Levitt, Seniors Advocate
Office of the Seniors Advocate, Province of British Columbia
May the imagined force be with you: staying strong and steady through imagined practice
Motor imagery is the imagined practice (or mental rehearsal) of a movement. In this presentation, we discuss how we can use motor imagery to help us perform smooth and steady movements as we age, and after stroke.
Presenter:
Sarah Kraeutner, PhD
Assistant Professor and Michael Smith Health Research BC Scholar
Department of Psychology, Irving K Barber Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of British Columbia Okanagan
Visit the NIMBL lab
Chair yoga with Paula
A Chair Yoga workshop to experience and enjoy the benefits of yoga. Gain confidence with your body through mobility and strength movements, while also relaxing and having fun.
Presenter
Paula Morrison, Certified Yoga Teacher
MyHealthPortal – Electronic health records and you
MyHealthPortal provides patients with 24 hour access to their health information via their phone, tablet or computer through a secure portal from the Interior Health website. Features include the ability to view Interior Health lab results, diagnostic imaging reports (such as X-ray, CT and ultrasound), certain upcoming appointments, recent hospital visit history, and the opportunity to update address and phone number information.
Learn more here
The social experience of chronic pain
Over 8 million Canadians live with chronic pain. Dr. Holtzman reviews the latest research demonstrating a connection between social relationships and the experience of pain, as well as implications for the effective treatment of pain.
Presenter:
Susan Holtzman, PhD, RPsych
Associate Professor, Psychology
Lead Investigator of the Connection, Health and Technology (CHaT) Lab
Irving K Barber Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
University of British Columbia Okanagan
New developments in Nav-CARE: the Compassionate, Dementia Inclusive Communities toolkit
The Compassionate, Dementia Inclusive Communities toolkit provides practical advice for organizations aspiring to improve support for persons living with dementia and their care partners using a compassionate community approach. The purpose of this presentation is to describe the theoretical and practical development of this toolkit, specifically the weaving together of three community development lenses: compassionate communities, dementia inclusion, and volunteer navigation. We also share early developments of the implementation of this toolkit in 6 unique communities in BC, Alberta, Ontario, and the Yukon.
Presenters:
Kelly Ashford, PhD
Project Manager for EU Navigate Project
Kelli Sullivan, MA
Research Facilitator – Palliative and End-of-Life research, UBC Okanagan
Learn more here: Nav-CARE
Tuesdays through Saturdays
KF Centre for Excellence – Open House
The KF Centre for Excellence current exhibition unveils the fascinating story of aviation in B.C. Discover how the power of flight has shaped our province, with roots that run all throughout the Okanagan Valley. Featuring a cutting-edge exhibition that brings together some of the world’s rarest aircrafts with a hands-on, interactive twist that will take the whole family, up , up and away.
Learn more here
Tuesdays and Thursdays
Introduction to Tai Chi – Drop-in Open House
Tai Chi uses slow and deliberate movements to stay active and healthy. You will:
* Improve balance
* Enhance flexibility
* Increase muscle strength
* Reduce stress
* and enjoy community engagement
People who suffer from MS, Parkinson’s, or stroke/aneurysm side effects, will enjoy Gail’s class that is paced to meet your individual physical ability. No one will be left behind.
Monthly membership: $30 – good for all classes during the month – drop-in to any class in Canada!!
Learn more here
