Rich Text version of the Participant
Package for the:
Dialogue on Diversity:
Creating Age Friendly Environments
Wednesday, March 20, 2013 - 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The Doors will open at 12:30 p.m.
Region of Waterloo, Council Chambers
150 Frederick St. Kitchener, 2nd floor
Speakers
 Douglas Bartholomew-Saunders, Commissioner, Region of Waterloo Social
Services (Moderator)
 Chair Ken Seiling, Regional Chair
 Mike Murray, Chief Administrative Officer, Region of Waterloo
Understanding ageism
 Arlene Groh - Elder Abuse and Restorative Justice Consultant
 Harmony Interactive Theatre Troupe - Charlie's Rant
Living well with dementia
 Brenda Hounam – Dementia Spokesperson and Advocate
Creating age friendly communities
 Dr. John Lewis – Associate Professor, University of Waterloo School of
Planning
Exploring demographic change: Ready or not, here come the ‘Boomers’!
 Dr. Doug Norris – Senior Vice-President and Chief Demographer, Environics
Analytics
Moving Forward: how to create more age friendly environments.
 Arlene Groh - Elder Abuse and Restorative Justice Consultant
Table of Contents
Waterloo Region Age Forecasts ................................................................................... 3
Area Municipalities: Age Forecasts ............................................................................... 4
Aging Quiz .................................................................................................................... 5
Glossary of Terms......................................................................................................... 7
Community Resources ................................................................................................ 10
Bios of Speakers ......................................................................................................... 17
Acknowledgements ..................................................................................................... 20
The Connection to the Region of Waterloo ................................................................. 24
Diversity and Inclusion at the Region of Waterloo ....................................................... 24
This event was possible because of the support and guidance of our planning group
which included individuals from the following organizations:
 The Region of Waterloo
 The City of Waterloo
 The YMCA
 The Social Planning council of Cambridge and North Dumfries
 Alzheimer Society – Kitchener Waterloo
A complete list of the planning group members can be found on page 20.
Page 2 of 21
Waterloo Region Age Forecasts
Figure 1 shows that in 1991, people aged 55 years or older living in Waterloo Region
made up 18.1% of the population. By the year 2021, it is projected that people aged
55 years or older will make up 29.2% of the population which is an increase of 11.1%.
By the year 2031, it is projected that the percentage of people aged 55 years or older
will increase another 2.1% which means that people aged 55 years or older will
comprise 31.3% of the population in Waterloo Region.
Source: Census of Canada and Planning Information and Research, Region of
Waterloo. Single years of age by municipality model.
Page 3 of 21
Area Municipalities: Age Forecasts
Table 1 shows the actual and projected percentage of the population aged 55 years
and older living in each of the area municipalities for the years 1991, 2001, 2011, 2021
and 2031. The increase in the percentage of the population aged 55 years and older in
the three cities is fairly similar. There are greater differences in the percentage of the
population aged 55 years and older in the four townships, with the Township of
Wellesley consistently having the lowest percentage of people aged 55 years and
older. It is interesting to note that when compared with 1991, it is projected that the
townships of North Dumfries and Wilmot will experience the greatest increase in the
percentage of their population who are aged 55 years and older in the year 2031
(North Dumfries, 16.4% increase, Wilmot, 15.2% increase).
Page 4 of 21
Aging Quiz
Linda M. Woolf, Ph.D., Webster University
Below are a series of statements; some are true, some are partly true, and some are
false. Most are common beliefs held by some individuals in Canada. Check yourself to
see how well you are able to separate fact from fiction. Circle the correct answer.
1. True or False? Most older adults have no desire or capacity for sexual
relations. In other words, most older adults are typically asexual.
2. True or False? Chronological age is the most important determinant of
someone's age.
3. True or False? Most older adults have difficulty adapting to change. In
other words, they tend to be set in their ways.
4. True or False? Physical handicaps are the primary factors limiting the
activities of older adults.
5. True or False? Declines in all five senses normally occur in old age.
6. True or False? Older adults are incapable of learning new information. In
other words, "you can't teach an old dog new tricks".
7. True or False? Physical strength tends to decline in old age.
8. True or False? Intelligence tends to decline with old age.
9. True or False? The majority of older adults say that they are happy most
of the time.
10. True or False? The vast majority of older adults will at some point end
up in a nursing home.
11. True or False? About 80% of older people say they are healthy
enough to carry out their normal daily activities independently.
12.
True or False? Most older adults are rejected by their children.
13. True or False? In general, most older adults tend to be pretty much
alike.
14.
True or False? The majority of older adults say that they are lonely.
15. True or False? Old age can be often characterized as a second
childhood.
16. True or False? Over 22% of the population of Canada is over the age
of 65.
Page 5 of 21
17.
True or False? Most older adults tend to be preoccupied with death.
18. True or False? Most older adults have incomes below the poverty
level.
19. True or False? Older people tend to become more religious as they
age. This is often a result of facing their own mortality.
20.
True or False? Retirement is detrimental to an individual's health.
21.
True or False? Pain is a natural part of the aging process.
22. True or False? The majority of older adults say that they feel irritated
or angry much of the time.
23. True or False? Rarely does someone over the age of 65 produce a
great work of art, science, or scholarship.
24. True or False? With age comes wisdom.
Answers to the quiz:
1. False
2. False
3. False
4. False
5. True
6. False
7. True
8. False
9. True
10.
False
11.
True
12.
False
13.
False
14.
False
15.
False
16.
True
17.
False
18.
False
19.
False
20.
False
21.
False
22.
False
Page 6 of 21
23.
False
24. True
The quiz is adapted from:
 Palmore, E. (1977). Facts on aging: A short quiz. The Gerontologist, 17, 315-320.
 Miller, R. B. & Dodder, R. A. (1980). A revision of Palmore's Facts on Aging Quiz. The
Gerontologist, 20, 673-679.
Page 7 of 21
Glossary of Terms
Overview
Words are powerful. They can influence and reinforce perceptions of people. The
words we use can create either a positive view of people or a negative view. This list
of definitions was pulled together from several different sources. It is important to
understand that thinking, understanding, knowledge and attitudes are always evolving
and so these definitions will change with time. It is best practice not make
assumptions, but ask for clarification and listen to what language is being used.
Older Adult/Senior
The terms older adult or senior is used to describe people who are 55 years of age or
older.
Active Aging
Definition from the World Health Organization:
Active Aging is the process of optimizing opportunities for health, participation and
security in order to enhance quality of life as people age. It applies to both individuals
and population groups. Active Aging allows people to realize their potential for
physical, social, and mental well-being throughout the life course and to participate in
society, while providing them with adequate protection, security and care when they
need.
Age-Friendly Community
Definition from the World Health Organization:
In an age-friendly community, policies, services, settings and structures support and
enable people to age actively by:
 Recognizing the wide range of capacities and resources among older people
 Anticipating and responding flexibly to aging-related needs and preferences
 Respecting the decisions and lifestyle choices of older adults
 Protecting those older adults who are most vulnerable
 Promoting the inclusion of older adults in, and contribution to, all areas of
community life
Page 8 of 21
Ageism:
Ageism - the negative attitudes, stereotypes and preconceptions that prevent older
persons from living their lives to the fullest.
From the Ontario Human Rights Commission:
…the term ‘ageism’ refers to two types of behaviour that have a negative effect on
older persons. The first involves the social construction of age, including incorrect
assumptions and stereotypes about older persons. Another form of ageism involves a
tendency to structure society based on an assumption that everyone is young, thereby
failing to respond appropriately to the real needs of older persons.
Aging in Place
Aging in Place is the concept that supports the aging process in a residential
environment. The goal is to maintain independence with dignity in a safe and
comfortable environment.
Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term for a variety of brain disorders. Symptoms include loss of
memory, judgment and reasoning, and changes in mood and behaviour. Brain function
is affected enough to interfere with a person's ability to function at work, in
relationships or in everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of
dementia.
Elder Abuse
Definition provided by the Waterloo Region Committee on Elder Abuse: Elder abuse is
the mistreatment of an elderly person by someone he or she should be able to rely
on… a spouse, a child, another family member, a friend or a paid caregiver. This
includes:
Physical violence: pushing, shaking, hitting, sexually molesting, rough-handling,
deliberate over/under medication, or the improper use of restraints.
Psychological harm: threatening, bullying, name-calling, humiliating, or treating an
older person like a child.
Financial: withholding money, forcing the sale of property or possessions, theft,
coercing changes in wills, or misusing power of attorney responsibilities.
Neglect: failing to provide adequate food, drink or medical attention; leaving an elderly
person in an unsafe or isolated situation.
Self-Neglect: Self-neglect is any failure of an adult to take care of himself or herself
that causes, or is reasonably likely to cause within a short period of time, serious
physical, mental or emotional harm or substantial damage to or loss of assets.
Page 9 of 21
Geriatrics
The medical specialty treating the diseases and problems of old age.
Geriatrician
A physician who specializes in the practice of geriatrics.
Long-Term Care Home
A long-term care (LTC) home provides care and services for people who no longer are
able to live independently or who require onsite nursing care, 24-hour supervision or
personal support. Nursing homes under the Nursing Homes Act, approved charitable
homes for the aged under the Charitable Institutions Act and homes under the Homes
for the Aged and Rest Homes Act are all LTC homes.
Retirement Homes/Assisted Living Centre
Retirement homes/Assisted Living Centres are privately owned rental accommodations
for seniors who are able to manage and pay for their own care. Generally, retirement
homes are designed for seniors who need minimal to moderate support with their daily
living activities. These settings enable residents to live as independently as possible,
while providing certain services and social activities. Retirement homes/Assisted Living
Centres are also called “retirement residences”.
Supportive Housing
Supportive housing combines permanent housing with access to 24 hour/day
supportive services. Supportive Housing integrates housing with access to a
comprehensive and coordinated package of services and programs necessary to
support individuals to maintain their optimal level of health and well-being.
Page 10 of 21
Community Resources
Community members made the following suggestions on community resources that
may be helpful in order to gain a better understanding of issues related to older adults
as well as on creating age-friendly environments.
Please note: It is important for individuals to feel comfortable and safe with resources
and supports. This list of resources is not exhaustive nor an endorsement for any
specific service, rather it is a list of options for individuals to explore and access if they
feel comfortable. The options described are offered as suggestions to explore. Not all
options are suitable for everyone.
A Guide to Programs and Services for Seniors in Ontario
http://www.seniors.gov.on.ca/en/seniorsguide/docs/seniors_guide_final_english_
web.pdf
A comprehensive, 258 page guide that provides information on: Aboriginal
Seniors; Active Living; Caregiving; Consumer Information and Protection;
Emergency Services and Public Safety; Employment; Finances; Health and
Wellness; Housing; Legal Matters; Human Rights and End of Life; Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual, Transgender Seniors’ Resources; Lifelong Learning and Volunteering;
Long-Term Care; Recognizing Seniors’ Contributions; Resources for Seniors with
Disabilities; Services for Newcomer Seniors; Transportation and Veterans’
Services. This guide is available in English (see the link listed above), Chinese
, French , Italian
, Portuguese
, Punjabi
and Spanish
.
World Health Organization – Global Age-Friendly Cities: a Guide
http://www.who.int/Aging/age_friendly_cities_guide/en/
Description from the WHO: The purpose of this guide is to engage cities to
become more age-friendly so as to tap the potential that older people represent
for humanity. It describes the converging trends of rapid growth of the population
over 60 years of age and of urbanization, outlines the challenge facing cities, and
summarizes the research process that led to identifying the core features of an
age-friendly city.
Page 11 of 21
Public Health Agency of Canada - Age-Friendly Rural and Remote Communities:
A Guide
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/publications/public/afc-caa/ruralrurales/index-eng.php
The idea of an age-friendly rural or remote community builds on work underway
by the World Health Organization (WHO) on "global age-friendly cities" which is,
in turn, based on the WHO’s active aging model. Canada’s AFRRCI was
developed using the model and research framework of Global Age-Friendly
Cities. The Canadian project focuses its work specifically on rural and remote
communities.
World Health Organization – Global Health and Aging
http://www.who.int/Aging/publications/global_health/en/index.html
Description from the WHO: Population aging is a powerful and transforming
demographic force. We are only just beginning to comprehend its impacts at the
national and global levels. As we prepare for a new demographic reality, we hope
this report raises awareness not only about the critical link between global health
and aging, but also about the importance of rigorous and coordinated research to
close gaps in our knowledge and the need for action based on evidence-based
policies.
Sunnyside Seniors’ Services
http://socialservices.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/seniorsservices
Sunnyside Seniors’ Services, a division of Social Services, Region of Waterloo,
works collaboratively with the community to plan, support and operate long-term
care, residential and community programs in Waterloo Region.
The Sunnyside Campus offers a variety of services and programs for older adults
to enable them to age with dignity. The Wellness Centre, Homemakers and
Nurses Services Program and the Community Alzheimer Programs support
those living independently in the community. Other programs such as
Convalescent Care and Respite provide short stays for persons who either need
time to recuperate, need care or respite. Residential programs such as
Supportive Housing and Sunnyside Home support persons who require both care
and housing.
Page 12 of 21
Grand River Transit
www.grt.ca
Phone: 519-585-7555
Grand River Transit (GRT) is committed to creating an accessible transit system.
Our team of dedicated professionals take pride in delivering safe, efficient and
progressive transportation that strives to improve the quality of life for everyone
in Waterloo Region. GRT has services and technology to make transit accessible
to everyone. You don’t need to be nervous about taking the bus for the first time.
GRT’s EasyGO information system makes it easy to plan ahead of time, online
and on the phone. You can also get personal assistance from our Training
Specialist, whose job is to help you learn how to use GRT. MobilityPLUS is the
specialized transit service for customers who have difficulty accessing the
conventional transit service due to a mobility challenge. Specific eligibility
criteria is required to be able to register with this service.
Murray Alzheimer Research and Education Program: Age-Friendly Communities
Website
http://afc.uwaterloo.ca/
Tools and resources to help guide communities towards developing solutions to
become more age friendly – in a way that best suits each community’s unique
needs.
Diversity in Action Toolkit A Toolkit for Residential Settings for Seniors
http://www.seniors.gov.on.ca/en/resources/diversity.php
Ideas and practices to create welcoming communities for diverse populations
within Ontario’s long-term care homes, retirement homes, and supportive
housing settings for seniors.
Ontario Renovates Program
http://socialservices.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/housing/fundingforhomeowners.asp
The Ontario Renovates program is made possible through the Investment in
Affordable Housing (IAH) Program, which is funded by the federal and provincial
governments. The Ontario Renovates Program offers financial assistance to low
to moderate income households to increase accessibility of their home through
modifications and adaptation.
Page 13 of 21
Housing Options for Older Adults Guide
http://socialservices.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/communityProgramsSupports/resour
ces/Older_Adults_Booklet-2012.pdf#Older_Adults_Booklet-2012.pdf
The purpose of the booklet is to provide information about what housing, income
and support resources are available to assist older adults who have a low to
moderate income. The booklet is produced by the Regional Municipality of
Waterloo (the Region), Social Services and Planning, Housing and Community
Services with input from community agencies/organizations serving older adults
as well as individuals/families.
The Waterloo Wellington Community Care Access Centre (WWCCAC)
http://www.ccacont.ca/Content.aspx?EnterpriseID=3&LanguageID=1&MenuID=1
call 519-310-2222
Is able to assist in finding the personal supports to help older adults to continue
to live independently. For local resources, contact: CCAC toll free at 1-888-8833313 (CCAC Main Office) or visit their website at www.ccac-ont.ca and follow the
link for CCAC Locator. The WWCCAC can be found in region #3. CCAC also
has a new information and referral service, featuring the largest database in
Ontario. Local resources can be identified by city or postal code. To access this
service call 519-310-2222 or visit the website at 310ccac.ca.
Caredove.com: Directory of Waterloo Wellington Community Support Services
by Postal Code
https://www.caredove.com/wwcss
This website can be used to locate the Community Support Services (e.g.,
housekeeping, meals, day programs, friendly visitors) located in
Waterloo/Wellington. The site enables the user to select the desired service,
input a postal code and find out what community support services are available
for that address. If internet access is not available information on these
resources can also be obtained through the Waterloo Wellington Community
Care Access Centre - WWCCAC (see the WWCCAC listing for the contact
information).
Community Information Centre of Waterloo Region
http://www.waterlooregion.org/cic
Phone: 519-579-1096
The Community Information Centre, a program of the Social Planning Council of
Kitchener Waterloo, provides up-to-date information on thousands of community
programs, services and organizations within Waterloo Region. Anyone can call
and find answers to any question they may have about Waterloo Region.
Page 14 of 21
Community Support Connections - Meals on Wheels and More
http://www.communitysupportconnections.org
Phone: 519-772-8787
Community Support Connections - Meals on Wheels and More is a registered
charity that provides a range of supports and services that enable seniors and
adults with disabilities to live at home with independence and dignity. From
personal visits and security calls to home maintenance and snow removal,
Community Support Connections provides a variety of services to lessen feelings
of loneliness, isolation, and dependence and strengthen confidence and
independence.
Community Care Concepts
http://www.communitycareconcepts.ca/index.htm
Phone: 519-664-1900
Community Care Concepts is a non profit organization that provides services that
help seniors and adults with special needs throughout the Townships of
Woolwich, Wellesley and Wilmot to live independently in their own home.
Services include Meals on Wheels, community dining programs, transportation
to medical and other appointments, friendly visiting, homemaking, household
maintenance, adult day programs and support in transitioning from hospital to
home.
City of Waterloo Programs and Services for Seniors
http://www.waterloo.ca
Phone: More than one number - please see the description below.
The City was designated the 42nd Age Friendly city by the World Health
Organization in 2011. The seniors’ section offers a variety of registered and
drop-in leisure activities (519 579-1020 or 519 888-6356) promoting active
living and wellness. Home Support Services (519-579-6930) assists frail,
isolated or marginalized adults to live safely and remain active in the community
through a variety of services. A Senior Day Program (519-579-6930) exists to
provide a cheerful, safe and stimulating program for older adults with limitations
that isolate them from independent community activities. Volunteers play a
critical part in assisting staff in the delivery of the programs and services. A 55+
Advisory Board advises city council on matters related to the delivery of
programs, services and facilities for older adults in the city of Waterloo.
Page 15 of 21
The Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA)
http://www.rhra.ca/en/
The Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA), created under the
Retirement Homes Act, 2010 (Act), is responsible for:
 Informing the public and educating the retirement home sector and
residents about the Act, regulations and role of the RHRA
 Licensing retirement homes and maintaining a Public Register
 Inspecting retirement homes using a risk-based approach, overseeing
compliance and enforcing the Act for the protection of residents
Special Senate Committee on Aging Final Report - Canada’s Aging Population:
Seizing the Opportunity
http://www.parl.gc.ca/Content/SEN/Committee/402/agei/rep/AgingFinalReporte.pdf?goback=%2Egde_4199947_member_194243414
This report sets out a comprehensive vision for government, organizations and
individuals to embrace the challenges of an aging population.
Age is More
http://www.ageismore.com/Ageismore/Home.aspx
Age is More is the name of Revera’s social cause to challenge ageism – the
negative attitudes, stereotypes and preconception that prevent older persons
from living their lives to the fullest. Through Age is More, Revera intends to shed
light on ageism, and celebrate the ageless spirit of older people.
Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse: What is Ageism?
http://www.cnpea.ca/ageism.pdf
This fact sheet provides information on ageism.
Living Longer Living Well - Highlights and Key Recommendations From the
Report Submitted to the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care and the Minister
Responsible for Seniors on recommendations to inform a Seniors Strategy for
Ontario
http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/common/ministry/publications/reports/seniors_str
ategy/docs/seniors_strategy.pdf
According to the authors, this a comprehensive report on how to help seniors
stay healthy and live at home longer. The recommendations cover health and
wellness, social services, and community living for older Ontarians. The report is
the result of research and consultations in 19 communities across Ontario with
more than 5,000 seniors and 2500 health, social, and community care providers,
will inform Ontario's Seniors Strategy.
Page 16 of 21
Aging in Ontario – TVO Special
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YW6w2-Bf3sM
This video discusses the Living Longer Living Well report (as referenced above).
Province of Alberta - The Seniors’ Policy Handbook: A guide for developing and
evaluating policies and programs for seniors
http://www.health.alberta.ca/documents/Seniors-Policy-Handbook-2009.pdf
Description from the Authors:
This handbook is for people who analyze, develop or implement policies,
programs, services or legislation that directly or indirectly affect seniors. Its
purpose is to help policy analysts and program planners consider the perspective
of seniors, the diversity of the seniors’ population, and the needs and issues
facing seniors today and in the future.
Bios of Speakers
Arlene Groh
Elder Abuse Restorative Justice Consultant, Healing Approaches to Elder Abuse And
Mistreatment, gives presentations and workshops on the complex issue of elder abuse
including restorative justice as a resource option. Arlene pioneered and coordinated
the Restorative Justice Approaches to Elder Abuse Project; was a founding member of
the Waterloo Region Elder Abuse Response Team and initiated a movement for the
City of Waterloo to actively engage in preventing elder abuse by becoming an Age
Friendly City. She is chair of the City of Waterloo’s Age Friendly Cities Mayor’s
Advisory Committee. Arlene’s practice is guided by restorative justice philosophy and
her core values of integrity, respect, safety and knowledge. She advocates for legal,
health and social services, faith and cultural communities and the government to work
together to build safe communities for older adults. Arlene is the recipient of many
awards for her outstanding contribution to seniors and her dedication to the prevention
of elder abuse. Please visit her website for more information including publications
(www.healingapproaches.com).
Woody Woodhouse
Woody Woodhouse is a member of the Harmony Interactive Theatre Troupe. The troupe
is a group of older adults who are committed to raising awareness about elder abuse
and restorative justice with action theatre. Woody will perform a monologue that
highlights barriers to active Aging.
Dr. Doug Norris
Page 17 of 21
Doug Norris is currently Senior Vice President and Chief Demographer at Environics
Analytics (EA) in Toronto. At EA he assists companies, municipalities and government
agencies and not-for-profit organizations in using census and other statistical
information for planning and marketing projects. He joined EA in 2006 after nearly 30
years with Statistics Canada, most recently as Director General of Social and
Demographic Statistics where he was responsible for census content and analysis.
Doug holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from McGill University
and a Ph.D. in biostatistics and demography from Johns Hopkins University.
Doug is currently an adjunct professor at both Carleton University and the University of
Alberta and he serves on several steering committees related to the use and
development of census and social data including Statistics Canada’s advisory
committee on dissemination. In 2006, Statistics Canada honoured him with a lifetime
achievement Award for Career Excellence in recognition of his exceptional contribution
to the agency.
Dr. John Lewis
Dr. John Lewis is an urban planner and landscape architect with research expertise in
the areas of urban and landscape design, accessible planning, age friendly cities and
computer-based visualization tools for environmental planning and design. A faculty
member of the School of Planning at the University of Waterloo since 2005, Dr. Lewis
is also an active member of the University of British Columbia's Collaborative for
Advanced Landscape Planning, the University of Waterloo's Research Institute for
Aging and is director of the EDIT Lab at the University of Waterloo.
Brenda Hounam
In April of 2000 at the age of 53, Brenda Hounam, a spokesperson and advocate, was
diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. In her professional life, Brenda, a
single mother of two, worked as a registered industrial accountant.
Brenda had the idea for and was the inspiration behind the song “One More Memory”.
In 2004 Brenda met a new friend, Linda Westbrook, who then introduced Brenda to her
daughter Sara Westbrook, a singer/songwriter. Sara spent hours interviewing Brenda
and truly looked into her heart and soul and was able to write the song “One More
Memory”. Brenda now travels nationally and internationally with Sara, the co-writer and
performer of “One More Memory”, and her mother Linda, promoting awareness
through story and song.
Brenda has been an active and dedicated volunteer with the Murray Alzheimer
Research and Education Program. Since 2003 she has served as a member of the
Page 18 of 21
planning committee for A Changing Melody. She has also played a role in the
development of an online education tool which is housed on the Alzheimer’s Research
Exchange website. In 2006 Brenda was involved with the release of a new educational
tool, a DVD produced by MAREP entitled, “Breaking the Silence – Giving voice to
persons with dementia”, and assisted with the development of the Dementia Care
Education Series on CD-ROM, an interactive education tool for front-line staff in longterm care facilities. Brenda also had the idea for and was instrumental in developing a
series of guides written by persons with dementia, for persons with dementia, and
appropriately titled, “By Us For Us”. Most recently, Brenda is sitting on the Living With
Dementia Website committee www.livingwithdementia.uwaterloo.ca. Currently Brenda
is involved with a very diverse team in developing a Self-Management Program for
Dementia lead by principal investigator, Elaine Wiersma, Lakehead University,
Thunder Bay.
Awards - since being diagnosed with Alzheimer disease.
2009 - (Inaugural) Kenneth G. Murray Partnership in Dementia Award - MAREP
2011- 10 years - Ontario Volunteer Service Award – Alzheimer Society Brant
2012 - Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal
Page 19 of 21
Acknowledgements
A big thank you to our guest speakers: Arlene Groh, Dr. Doug Norris, Dr. John Lewis,
Brenda Hounam and Woody Woodhouse. Their dedication to creating age friendly
environments are certainly an inspiration to our community. Also many thanks to our
MC/moderator for the day, Douglas Bartholomew-Saunders. Much was gained from
their insights and experiences in the areas of belongingness and inclusion.
This event was possible because of the support and guidance of our planning group
which included the following dedicated individuals from our community:
Name
Lorie Fioze
Kelly Buxton
Julie Wheeler
Sue Morgan
Alan Nanders
Anne Fowler
Sharon Livingstone
Colleen Sargeant
Melanie Garbarz
Gina Hickman
Wilma Schultz
Jen Hutchinson
Christine Kliewer
Gail Tremain
Carolyn Cormier
Kathryn Gardner
Jennifer Gillies
Preet Kohli
Page 20 of 21
Organization
Region of Waterloo, CAO’s Office
Region of Waterloo, Social Services
Region of Waterloo, Social Services
Region of Waterloo Seniors Advisory Committee
Region of Waterloo Seniors Advisory Committee
Region of Waterloo Seniors Advisory Committee
Social Planning Council of Cambridge and North
Dumfries
Region of Waterloo, Regional Chair’s Office
Region of Waterloo, Human Resources
Region of Waterloo, Corporate Resources
Region of Waterloo, Social Services
YMCA of Cambridge
Region of Waterloo, Transportation and Environmental
Services
Region of Waterloo Seniors Advisory Committee
City of Kitchener
Social Planning Council of Cambridge and North
Dumfries
Alzheimer Society Kitchener Waterloo
Candidate for Master of Arts, Candidate for Master of
Environmental Studies, University of Waterloo
The Connection to the Region of Waterloo
The Region of Waterloo was officially established on January 1, 1973 and is a large
and diverse organization that provides approximately 60% of municipal government
services in this community. The Region has over 3200 full-time and part-time
employees and an annual budget of over $1.2 billion. As described in more detail, the
Region provides a wide range of services including: public health, social services,
region-wide planning, heritage, rural libraries, major transportation routes, water
supply, sewage treatment, solid waste disposal, recycling, ambulance service, the
airport, the Provincial Offences Courts, public transit, public housing and emergency
planning. Directly and indirectly the Region is also involved with community partners in
economic development, community safety and crime prevention, heritage preservation,
funding for the arts and hospital capital financing.
Diversity and Inclusion at the Region of Waterloo
The Region is an organization committed to improving access to regional programs
and services for citizens from diverse backgrounds. A Diversity and Inclusion Strategy
has been developed to strengthen diversity in the workforce and implement inclusive
processes, policies, programs and services. One of the activities in the Strategy is to
understand the issues from specific community groups and develop solutions together.
The “Dialogues on Diversity” is one in a series of several sessions that will be offered
throughout the next several years to improve inclusion. There are many other activities
and resources being developed. Please contact staff for more information on the
Region’s Diversity and Inclusion initiative:
Lorie Fioze 519-575-4758 lfioze@regionofwaterloo.ca
Bev Aikenhead 519-575-4437 baikenhead@regionofwaterloo.ca
Charlotte Gravlev 519-575-4757 x 3721 cgravlev@regionofwaterloo.ca
www.regionofwaterloo.ca
TTY: 519-575-4608
If you have any questions or require alternate formats of this document please contact:
Lorie Fioze 519-575-4758 lfioze@regionofwaterloo.ca
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