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Letter from The Editor
Welcome to the second edition of Alberta Senior Living; I’m so glad you’re here!
When I launched the magazine in January, I hoped that not only would people read it, but they would connect with it. I wanted to create something for Albertans 55+ so that they would be informed, inspired, and connected… and from all indications, that’s exactly what’s happening. Thank you!
Thank you to our readers who picked up the first issue, who shared messages of gratitude, who shared it with friends, and who shared with us that they felt seen in these pages.
Thank you to our advertisers and community partners who believed in the vision from the beginning, and to those stepping up and asking to be a part of it. Without your support, this wouldn’t be possible.
Thank you to our amazing contributors who generously shared their expertise, experience, and heart. You are helping build something very special and impactful for Albertans.
This March, we proudly recognize International Women’s Day, and what better way to celebrate than to fill this edition with the voices and stories of some truly remarkable women. From our inspiring cover story featuring Lorrie Desjardins, to the powerful message from Minister Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women, to the many talented female writers and contributors throughout these pages, we celebrate strength, resilience, boldness, creativity, and lived experience. The impact of women in our communities, families, and province is profound, and we are so delighted to highlight just a few of those stories here.
As we step ever-so-excitedly into spring, we’ll be exploring stories of renewal and purpose, ideas to freshen your home, practical advice to protect yourself from scams during tax and travel season, guidance on organizing essential legal documents, and opportunities to connect through volunteering and community events. And for those already dreaming of their next adventure, we’ve curated travel and leisure inspiration designed specifically for Albertans 55+.
After a long Alberta winter, the shift in seasons can bring renewed energy, but it can also surface stress, transitions, and lingering fatigue. That’s why you’ll find practical, thoughtful pieces like The Great Spring Reset, our spring mental health check-in, and gut health strategies for longevity. We believe wellness is not about perfection. It’s about small, sustainable shifts that support real life.
Our goal for Alberta Senior Living remains simple: to be your trusted companion in this vibrant stage of life, sharing information that empowers, stories that inspire, and resources to help you live well with confidence and connection.
Thank you so much for being here at the beginning of our journey. We are just getting started, and I am so grateful that you’re a part of it.
With warmth and deep appreciation, Kerri Leland
Letter from The Honourable
Women Tanya Fir
Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of
Every year on March 8, Albertans join communities around the world in celebrating International Women’s Day. It is a moment to honour women’s achievements, recognize ongoing challenges and reaffirm our shared commitment to building an Alberta where every woman can thrive.
This annual milestone offers us the opportunity to reflect on the remarkable contributions women have made across generations and to celebrate the strength, leadership and resilience that continue to shape our province today.
For many Albertans, especially women 55 and older, International Women’s Day carries a unique significance. Your experiences have been forged through decades of change, advocacy, innovation and community leadership. You have shaped families, workplaces, neighbourhoods and public life in ways that continue to influence our collective story.
Many readers of this magazine have charted paths during times of rapid social change. You have cared for neighbours, raised children, supported partners, volunteered your time, launched businesses and nurtured community building. You have pushed for safer communities, better opportunities and a brighter future for Alberta. These contributions deserve recognition and celebration!
I encourage you to take time this month to reflect on your journey, on your successes and the difference you have made in the lives of others. Share your stories widely. Younger women and girls benefit immensely from hearing them. Your perspective helps shape a future where every woman feels empowered to participate fully and confidently.
Alberta’s government remains committed to ensuring women and girls can thrive at every age. That includes strengthening women’s safety, expanding economic opportunities and supporting access to education, training and careers in all sectors.
When women succeed, our province is stronger, more innovative and more compassionate.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the women who built Alberta into the place it is today. Thank you for your determination, your leadership and your unwavering commitment to your communities.
Happy International Women’s Day!
Honourable Tanya Fir Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women
Independent Seniors Living IN
EDMONTON
The Story of Lorrie Desjardins
By Kerri Leland
Time: Right on S
pring has a way of inviting reflection. It nudges us to open windows, shake off what’s been heavy, and imagine what’s still possible. For 59-year-old Lorrie Desjardins, spring isn’t just a season; it’s a state of being she’s claimed after years of quietly putting herself last.
Today, Lorrie moves through life with strength in her body, clarity in her mind, and a confidence that feels hardwon and deeply rooted. But her journey to wellness didn’t begin with a vision board or a new pair of running shoes. It began with a moment of fear, denial, and an unexpected reckoning on Easter weekend in 2022: a moment that would change the course of her life.
ROOTED IN FAMILY AND WORK ETHIC
Lorrie grew up in Sherwood Park in a household shaped by dedication, routine, and love. Her father rose before dawn each morning to work as a milkman, loading his truck at 3 a.m. so families could start their days with fresh milk on the doorstep. Her mother stayed home, centring her life around raising the kids
and keeping the family grounded.
“It was a simple life,” Lorrie recalls, “but it was full. We always felt loved and supported.”
Weekends were spent at hockey rinks, skating with friends, lingering at the arcade, or later, catching movies, or at Checkers. From an early age, Lorrie absorbed her parents’ work ethic and dreamed of building a career she could feel proud of. She gravitated toward law, art, and typing — excelling in the classroom — while science, particularly biology, sparked anxiety thanks to an enduring fear of frog dissection.
What she didn’t know then was how much of her adult life would be shaped not by ambition, but by quiet selfsacrifice.
“I grew up learning the value of showing up, even before I knew how much that would cost me.”
THE GOLDEN CHAPTER — EARNED, NOT GIVEN
Today, Lorrie describes this chapter of her life as her golden years, not because everything is perfect, but because everything finally feels aligned.
“There’s a contentment that comes from years of growing, learning, and weathering life’s storms,” she says. “I feel confident in who I’ve become.”
Her children are grown now, building lives and families of their own. The chaos of parenting has softened
into something sweeter: meaningful conversations, shared meals, and the deep joy of watching them thrive. And then there’s her grandson — her “little squish” — a source of pure magic and love that has reshaped her understanding of time.
“Time isn’t rushed anymore,” she says. “It’s cherished.”
This season is filled with gratitude, connection, and a profound sense of belonging; a feeling that took decades to earn.
LOSS, SILENCE, AND THE COST OF PLEASING
The road here wasn’t smooth.
Ten years ago, Lorrie lost her mother after a long, nine-year illness. Five years later, her father passed away. Suddenly, the two people who had
always been her anchor were gone.
“The quiet was the hardest part,” she says. “No more late-night phone calls. No more talking for hours about nothing and everything.”
In the silence, Lorrie was forced to confront a truth she’d long avoided: she had spent most of her life trying to be liked, needed, and approved of; often at the expense of herself.
She said yes when she wanted to say no. She worked overtime, ignored boundaries, and put her health on the back burner. Her worth became tangled in how much she could give.
“I didn’t realize how much of myself I was giving away,” she reflects, “until there wasn’t much left.”
Grief cracked something open… not in a dramatic way, but slowly, painfully. It revealed parts of herself
she had ignored for years and planted the seed for a reckoning she didn’t yet know was coming.
EASTER WEEKEND: THE WAKE-UP CALL
That reckoning arrived on Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022.
After a full day surrounded by family — siblings, children, nieces, nephews — the house finally went quiet. Lorrie curled up on the couch with a bag of leftover mini-egg cookies she had baked and a Diet Pepsi, settling into the rare luxury of solitude.
She wasn’t counting cookies. She wasn’t thinking about health. She was just being.
Then the pain hit.
Sharp chest pain. Tingling fingers. Nausea. Pain shooting down her arm.
Her husband rushed her to the emergency room, both convinced she was having a heart attack.
For years, Lorrie had brushed off her health concerns. She knew about her thyroid issues, high blood pressure, and diabetes, but denial felt easier than confrontation.
“I felt great,” she told herself. “They don’t know what they’re talking about.”
At the hospital, the doctor didn’t sugar-coat it.
“Lorrie, you are diabetic.”
She laughed. He didn’t.
Her A1C had been dangerously high for years. Her blood sugar was out of control. He suspected she had suffered a mild heart attack and ordered further testing.
Even then, she clung to denial until her husband quietly suggested she follow through on the tests. If they’re wrong, they won’t find anything.
That small sentence changed everything.
“Denial felt easier than confrontation, until it wasn’t.”
CHOOSING HERSELF — ONE SMALL STEP AT A TIME
On April 20, 2022, Lorrie made a decision that didn’t look heroic on the surface.
She went downstairs to her makeshift gym — a treadmill and an exercise bike — and started. Slowly.
Three days a week. No grand promises. Just movement.
“The decision that changed my life didn’t look heroic. It just looked like starting.”
off. Her energy returned. She added weights. Three days became five. Five became seven.
The gym became her sanctuary.
“This wasn’t just a lifestyle change,” she says. “It was reclaiming my life.”
LEARNING TO LIVE IN HER BODY
Lorrie’s relationship with her body had always been complicated.
Growing up overweight meant learning how to disappear: stepping out of photos, hiding behind friends, shrinking herself to avoid attention. Food became comfort early on, a way to numb the pain of bullying and loneliness.
“I learned to eat my feelings before I learned how to name them,” she says.
Breaking that cycle wasn’t about willpower; it was about compassion, and about recognizing that the girl who reached for chips and pop wasn’t weak, she was hurting.
As her body changed, something deeper shifted. She stopped scanning the mirror for flaws. She stepped into photos without hiding. She learned to see strength where shame once lived.
“For the first time,” she says, “I wasn’t hiding. I was loving my body.”
REDEFINING WELLNESS: MOVEMENT, FOOD, AND REST
Wellness, for Lorrie, became holistic. Not just exercise, but nourishment, rest, and mental clarity.
Mornings now begin with weights before the world wakes up. Evenings end with cardio and quiet rituals: meditation, red light therapy, and early bedtimes. Sundays are sacred: workouts, meal prep, and experimenting with healthier versions of favourite recipes.
Food is no longer a coping mechanism. It’s fuel, creativity, and connection.
AGING WITHOUT APOLOGY
At 59, Lorrie rejects the idea that aging means slowing down.
“I refuse to let a number decide who I am,” she says.
She rides motorcycles. Climbs mountains. Gets dirt under her nails in the garden. She wants to sit on the floor with her grandson, not watch from a chair.
“Aging well,” she says, “means staying alive to your life.”
SUCCESS, REIMAGINED
Success now looks different from what it once did.
It’s not about titles or income. It’s about the two daughters she raised into strong, compassionate women, family dinners filled with laughter, and showing up fully for the life she built.
“This is a good life,” she says simply.
FOR ANYONE WHO THINKS IT’S TOO LATE
If Lorrie could speak directly to someone who feels it’s too late to change, her message is gentle but firm:
“Start small. Drink more water. Take a walk. Skip one snack. That’s how belief grows.”
She knows that voice of doubt well; the one that whispers not you, not now.
“It’s never too late to choose yourself,” she says. “You’re worth the effort.”
LOOKING AHEAD
With another grandbaby on the way, a wedding approaching, and countless adventures ahead, Lorrie feels more excited about the future than ever before.
“This isn’t the end of my story,” she says. “It’s the foundation.”
And if she had to sum up this stage of her life in one sentence?
She cut out the two litres of pop she had been drinking daily and replaced it with water. Eight glasses a day became her baseline. The weight began to come
“My kids are my taste testers,” she laughs. “If it makes the family recipe list, it’s a win.”
“Putting a beautiful ribbon around a life of loving, embracing change, and feeling extremely grateful for this beautiful life I’ve been given.”
“It’s never too late to choose yourself.”
The Great Spring Reset
Small Habit Shifts with Big Impacts
Alberta winters are no joke… and spring can be just as sobering. Despite the lengthening of days and the shrinking of snow, the season is often unpredictable, with random cold snaps and surprise squalls that make warmer weather feel just out of reach.
And yet, something still shifts. Even subtly, we might begin to feel a sense of possibility, lightness, and renewal. In many Indigenous teachings, the return of spring is marked not by a date on the calendar, but by what the land is revealing to us. In yoga philosophy, this same wisdom appears as awareness: learning to observe change rather than resist it.
HOW TO WORK WITH THE SEASONS
Indigenous teachings and yoga philosophy both remind us that humans are not separate from nature; we are part of it. Our body, mind, and spirit move through the seasons just like the Earth. And as we age, these seasonal shifts can feel more noticeable in our energy levels, sleep, and mood.
If you feel a sense of awakening within yourself that mirrors the emergence of spring, let it serve as a reminder to listen, embrace, and work gently with the changes unfolding within you.
And if you don’t feel that awakening yet, that’s okay too. Spring isn’t about forcing growth; it’s about creating the right conditions for it. Think of this season as preparing the ground. It’s an invitation to build small, supportive habits that positively shape how you
By Cynthia Walker
move through the months ahead. Neither yoga nor the land asks us to rush. Growth unfolds when the conditions are right.
“Spring isn’t about forcing growth; it’s about creating the right conditions for it.”
DECLUTTER
In nature, nothing is held onto longer than needed. Animals shed their winter coats, trees release old leaves, and the land makes space for new life. Yoga philosophy reflects this through aparigraha, the practice of non-grasping and letting go. We can follow this same wisdom. Like animals clearing out their winter hibernation dens, we can discard and rebuild parts
of ourselves and our spaces that no longer serve our highest good.
• Declutter your mind: Gently notice negative patterns or unhelpful thoughts without judgment. Awareness itself is medicine. This is a form of svadhyaya, or self-study. From there, begin introducing affirmations or supportive beliefs that can encourage feelings of ease, patience, and self-trust.
• Declutter your environment: Remove objects that no longer bring joy or serve a purpose. A cleaner, more open space can help reduce stress and improve focus. Once reorganized, consider setting an intention for the energy you’d like to invite in: peace, creativity, rest, or renewal.
CONNECT WITH NATURE
Spring is a time of renewal, rebirth, and the return of life to the land after winter. It invites us to reconnect with the Earth, and with ourselves. It is also a time to remember our relationships; with the land, with the elements, and with one another.
• Take a short walk: Breathe in the fresh air and notice the subtle signs of life emerging: buds on trees, the sound of birds singing, and the Earth emerging from the melting snow and ice.
• Pet your pets: If you have a furry friend, studies show that petting an animal can reduce stress and increase feelings of calm and connection. As natural teachers of presence, animals remind us to stay in the now.
• Remember that you are a part of nature too: Practice ahimsa, or non-harm towards yourself through compassion. Gradually transition
your diet from heavier foods that make us feel full and warm, to lighter, seasonal foods that nourish your body. And as your body continues to adjust to longer days, be sure to prioritize your sleep.
JUST BREATHE
Breath is one of the simplest and most powerful tools we have for regulation and renewal.
“We are not separate from nature — our body, mind, and spirit move through the seasons just like the Earth.”
MOVE YOUR BODY
Movement doesn’t need to be intense or structured to be meaningful, especially as we age. Yoga reminds us that the purpose of movement is not performance. Gentle, consistent movement helps maintain mobility, support joint health, improve balance, and boost circulation. Think of movement as a way of waking the body up kindly, safely, and with curiosity:
• Gentle stretching or chair yoga can ease stiffness and improve flexibility.
• Walking, even in short intervals, supports cardiovascular health and mental clarity.
• Balance-focused movements, such as standing on one foot near a wall or practicing slow, controlled transitions, help build stability and reduce the risk of falls.
• Strength-building movements using body weight or light resistance help maintain muscle and bone health over time.
Rather than striving for greatness or in comparison to others, move with curiosity and kindness, guided by santosha: the practice of contentment.
In yoga, breath is understood as pranayama, the conscious exchange of energy within the body. In many Indigenous teachings, breath is sacred; an ongoing relationship between ourselves and the world around us.
Try taking a few intentional breaths each day: deep inhales through the nose, and slow exhales through the mouth. Let your breath remind your nervous system that it’s safe to soften, expand, and begin again.
A GENTLE RESET
Spring doesn’t ask us to transform overnight. It asks us to listen… to the land, to our breath, and to our own inner wisdom. The smallest habits may seem too simple to affect our seasonal health and well-being, but when practiced with intention, their impact can be profound.
Trust the seasons. Trust the teachings carried by the land and the body. And above all, trust your own timing. Growth will come exactly when it’s meant to.
CYNTHIA WALKER
A proud Indigenous (Gwichyà Gwich’in) woman, Cynthia Walker is a trauma-informed yoga instructor and owner of The Space: Yoga, Wellness, Meditation in Fort Saskatchewan. She infuses her classes with an element of land-based spirituality to encourage a sense of self-reflection and connection to the world around us. Cynthia’s mandate will always remain clear and true: to continue to provide a space in which people can feel safe and supported in any stage of their physical, mental, and spiritual health and healing journeys while promoting values of education, diversity, inclusivity, and community.
Postherpetic Neuralgia
Life-Changing Relief for One of the Most Painful Conditions
You’ve Never Heard Of
By Accessible Acupuncture
After months of unbearable pain from complications following a bout of Shingles, Dean found lasting relief with Accessible Acupuncture. Mothers have described it as a ‘pain worse than labour’, others compare it to passing a kidney stone.
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a complication following a bout of shingles and is often ranked in the top 5 most painful things a human can experience. Affecting more than 18% of shingles patients, PHN causes you to experience the pain of active shingles for longer than three months, and in some cases, years after the rash has dissipated.
Dean G. of Edmonton, AB shares his story. “I had been diagnosed with shingles, and I thought it was going to be like the flu or any other virus. I’d have it and then get over it. Two months later, the blisters were gone, but the pain was so intense I was begging them to put me in the hospital and just put me out.”
During shingles, the virus injures nerves in and around the skin where the rash and blisters occur. Your immune system eventually suppresses the virus, and the rash and blisters disappear. Unfortunately, nerve damage often disrupts the function of your nervous system, and the damaged nerves send random, uncontrolled pain signals to the brain, causing lasting, debilitating pain.
“I couldn’t sleep,” Dean tells, almost in tears. “I was always in pain. I couldn’t get out of the house. I thought it was going to kill me.” PHN pain has been described as burning, throbbing, stabbing, or even gnawing. Even worse, it tends to escalate to unbearable levels, episodes that Dean referred to as ‘seizures.’ “You can actually feel them coming on, so you know you’re about to be in major pain, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”
This pain can gradually go away, return intermittently, or, in the worst cases, be with you for the rest of your life. Dean’s wife wasn’t willing to take that chance and sought the expertise of Dr. Melanie Morrill, Dr. Ac of Accessible Acupuncture.
“Sadly, we have seen an increase in PHN cases both at Accessible Acupuncture and the clinics I consult for across the country. My PHN patients are some of the most tragic cases I’ve seen. The pain these people experience is just beyond words. Fortunately, I am able to offer them real hope!”
“I started going for treatment, and it kept getting better. After about a month, I told Melanie [Dr. Ac], ‘I’m going to play golf again,” shared Dean. “It’s changed my life.” While Accessible Acupuncture is an acupuncture clinic (it’s in their name after all), it’s the ‘integrative medicine’ part of their practice that’s a hole-in-one when treating
postherpetic neuralgia. “Our ATP Resonance BioTherapy® is the real winner here,” says Dr. Melanie Morrill, Dr. Ac. “ATP treats PHN twofold. It both eradicates residual shingles virus, which reduces future episodes, and aids in repairing damaged nerves. Nerves have the ability to regenerate and repair on their own, but often times as we suffer from injury, or in Dean’s case, illness, this self-healing ability is interrupted. This therapy both ensures and supercharges that process.”
It should also be noted that if ATP Resonance BioTherapy® is used to treat an active case of shingles, the chances that you’ll develop PHN are reduced significantly.
In asking Dean, “What do you think would’ve happened if you never found Accessible Acupuncture?” His only response was, “That’s for a different conversation.” Dr. Melanie Morrill, Dr. Ac elaborates, “as a person, you can only handle so much pain. Dean is on the other side of this now, and to me, that is most important.”
If you or a loved one is experiencing the pain of an active shingles outbreak or is now suffering from postherpetic neuralgia, Accessible Acupuncture can help. Visit accessibleacupuncture.ca to learn more or call today 587-879-7122 and to take advantage of their New Patient Offer.
She Saved My Life!
Edmonton resident Dawn had been experiencing the painful side effects of peripheral neuropathy, “My feet and legs were extremely painful, and my doctor told me there was nothing they could do. That I would have to take gabapentin for the rest of my life.” Then she met Edmonton’s very own Acupuncturist, Dr. Melanie Morrill,Dr. Ac.
Peripheral neuropathy is the pain, discomfort and numbness caused by nerve damage to the peripheral nervous system. Dawn explained that daily tasks like opening doors and using the washroom were overwhelmingly painful.
“How can you live for the next 30 years when you don’t even want to get out of bed to do the simple things?”
She was experiencing the burning, numbness, tingling, and sharp pains that those suffering from peripheral neuropathy often describe.” The way that I would describe it is the equivalent of walking on glass.” Dawn hadn’t worn socks in five years and was wearing shoes two sizes too big so that nothing would “touch” her feet.
Unfortunately, Dawn’s story is all too familiar for the over one million people in Canada suffering from peripheral neuropathy.
If you’re unfortunate enough to be facing the same disheartening prognosis, you’re not sleeping at night because of the burning in your feet. You have difficulty walking, shopping, or doing any activity for more than 30 minutes because of the pain. You’re struggling with balance and living in fear that you might fall. Your doctor told you to “just live with the pain,” and you are taking medications that just aren’t working or have uncomfortable side effects.
Fortunately, four months ago, Dawn read an article about Dr. Melanie Morrill, Dr. Ac. and the work she was doing to treat those suffering from peripheral neuropathy without invasive surgery or medication.
Doctor of Acupuncture, Dr. Melanie Morrill, Dr. Ac., founder of Accessible Acupuncture in Edmonton, AB, is using the time-tested science of acupuncture and technology originally developed by NASA that assists
in increasing blood flow and expediting recovery and healing to treat this debilitating disease.
“Now, when I go to bed at night, I don’t have those shooting pains. I don’t have the burning sensation. I don’t have pain coming up my legs,”
Dawn enthusiastically describes life after receiving Melanie’s treatments.
“I can wear socks and shoes!”
Dawn and her sister now operate a successful dog-walking business, sometimes covering 5 kilometres a day.
“It’s life-altering. As far as I’m concerned, Melanie saved my life!”
Dr. Melanie Morrill Ac. has been helping the senior community for over five years using the most cuttingedge and innovative integrative medicine, with a special interest in chronic pain and helping people who have been deemed ‘hopeless’ or ‘untreatable’, she consistently generates unparalleled results.
What was once a missing link in senior health care is now easily accessible to the residents of the Edmonton area, including St. Albert and Sherwood Park.
If you have been missing too many tee times because of your pain or you’ve passed on dancing because you’re afraid of calling, it’s time to call Dr. Melanie Morrill, Dr. Ac. and the staff at Accessible Acupuncture.
It’s time you let your golden years BE GOLDEN! Call 587-879-7122 today!
Dr Melanie Morrill ,Dr. Ac.
Gut Health for Longevity
Fibre, Beans & Fermented Foods for Real-Life Results
By Marlee Hamilton
When we think about gut health, we often think about how often we use the bathroom. But the gut is also closely connected to immune function, inflammation, energy levels, and overall healthy aging.
At the same time, healthy aging doesn’t come from extreme diets, superfoods, or doing everything “right.” It’s built through simple habits practiced consistently over time. When it comes to gut health and longevity, the goal isn’t to apply extreme habit changes - these almost never stick! Instead, we want to support the body in ways that are realistic, sustainable, and fit within an already busy life.
WHAT IS A HEALTHY GUT?
A healthy gut isn’t defined by perfect digestion or the total absence of digestive symptoms. At its core, gut health is about the balance and diversity of the bacteria, fungi, and other microbes that live in the digestive tract. Did you know there are trillions of these tiny microorganisms in the human gut? It’s quite amazing. Together, this community is known as the gut microbiome.
You can think of the gut microbiome like a garden. When a garden contains a wide variety of plants, those plants help replenish the soil, support one another, and create conditions where growth is more sustainable over time. Diversity keeps the soil rich. In the gut, microbial diversity works similarly - different microbes perform different roles, collectively supporting digestion and overall health.
“Healthy
aging isn’t built through extreme diets. It’s built through simple habits practiced consistently over time.”
HOW FOOD SUPPORTS THE GUT MICROBIOME
Continuing with the garden metaphor, food acts as the fertilizer for our gut bacteria. The foods we choose help determine which microbes grow and thrive. The more variety, the better. Research consistently shows that the healthiest guts are made up of not just more beneficial bacteria, but a wide range of different types.
For this reason, diets associated with healthier, more resilient guts tend to include a wide variety of foods that support microbial diversity rather than focusing on a single ingredient or supplement. To support a gut that stays resilient as we age, I encourage people to regularly include three key types of foods: fibre-rich foods, beans/legumes, and fermented foods.
FIBRE: THE DAILY FOUNDATION
Fibre is one of the simplest, most effective ways to support gut health. It works behind the scenes to keep the digestive system and the rest of the body functioning well.
Some foods contain what are known as prebiotics, a type of fibre that our bodies can’t digest, but our gut microbes can. These fibres pass through the digestive tract and become food for beneficial bacteria. Well-fed bacteria thrive and produce substances that support smooth digestion, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the immune system. Fibre also helps regulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and promote a feeling of fullness - benefits that become increasingly important with age. When it comes to adding fibre, small, simple changes, like adding ground flax to yogurt, enjoying oatmeal, or snacking on fruit and nuts, can make a big difference. Some of the most powerful sources aren’t powders or supplements; they’re foods people have eaten for generations. Whole grains, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and especially beans provide fibre along with other important nutrients.
BEANS/LEGUMES
OK, so technically beans are also a source of fibre. But I’m giving these nutrient powerhouses their own call-out, as they can do so much for our health.
Beans are both a fibre-rich and plant-based protein food, making them a double win for digestion and muscle maintenance. Both are especially important as we age.
For the gut, beans feed beneficial bacteria just like other fibre-rich foods, helping maintain microbial diversity. For muscles, the protein in beans helps counter age-related muscle loss, supporting strength and balance.
Many people shy away from beans because of gas concerns, but this is generally manageable. Start with small servings, rinse canned beans well, and spread intake throughout the week rather than eating a large portion all at once. Over time, the gut can adapt!
Ultimately, including beans regularly is an easy, affordable way to nourish both your gut and your body, supporting digestion, muscle health, and longterm wellness.
FERMENTED FOODS
While high fibre foods form the foundation of gut health, fermented foods play a supporting role. Because many fermented foods contain live microbes, eating these will introduce additional helpful bacteria into the digestive system.
It’s important to remember that adding more bacteria alone isn’t enough. New microbes need nourishment to survive and thrive (ie, fibre!). Without this “food,” the bacteria from fermented foods won’t stick around or make a long-term, meaningful impact.
Fermented foods are also optional and individualized - not everyone needs kombucha or kefir to support their gut. What matters most is consistency, not huge portions. I like to suggest trying to ‘eat something living every day’ – referring to foods with active living microbes like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or kimchi. Even a spoonful of sauerkraut with a meal or a small glass of kefir a few times a week contributes to a healthy gut!
BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER
Gut health for longevity isn’t about chasing the latest trend or adding more and more “superfoods” to your plate. It’s about building simple, sustainable habits that nourish your microbiome every day.
Fibre provides the foundation, legumes add both fibre and protein, and fermented foods offer a gentle boost of helpful microbes, especially when paired with a fibre-rich diet. By focusing on variety and consistency, you can create a gut-friendly routine that fits your life.
“Gut health for longevity isn’t about chasing superfoods. It’s about variety, consistency, and habits that fit real life.”
MARLEE HAMILTON
Marlee Hamilton is a registered dietitian who has spent the past 8 years working with patients who have complex digestive health concerns and food intolerances. She specializes in complex digestive health conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s and colitis, SIBO, and food intolerances, providing individualized nutritional support for a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders. Marlee completed her Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and dietetic internship at St. Francis Xavier University. She is the team lead dietitian at Ignite Nutrition, one of Canada’s top digestive health nutrition practices, where she also trains and supports other dietitians in working with clients who have unique and complex GI needs.
Spring Mental Health Check-In
Managing Anxiety, SAD Transitions & Light Exposure
Spring is often associated with new beginnings, longer days and renewed energy. But for many older adults in Alberta, spring can feel more complicated than that. After a long winter, the transition into brighter days doesn’t always bring immediate relief. In fact, it can sometimes stir up anxiety, disrupt sleep, or leave people feeling out of sync with expectations to ‘feel better now.’
As Stress Awareness Month reminds us, stress doesn’t always arrive loudly. It often shows up quietly during periods of change. Spring is a good time for a gentle mental health check-in. One that’s about noticing how you’re really feeling, not pushing yourself to meet seasonal expectations.
By Michelle Fox
WHY SPRING TRANSITIONS CAN BE CHALLENGING
In Alberta, seasonal shifts can be dramatic. Daylight increases quickly, and temperatures fluctuate… even within the same day! Routines that felt settled in winter begin to change. Even positive change places demands on the body and mind.
“Mental health isn’t about meeting expectations; it’s about responding kindly to change, at your own pace.”
For some people, symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) ease as winter ends. For others, the transition itself can feel unsettling. You might notice changes in mood, energy, concentration, or sleep. This doesn’t mean something is wrong. It often reflects your system adjusting to change, which can feel disorienting. If you are among the small group who experience symptoms of SAD in the spring or early summer, you could be experiencing reverse SAD, and it may be helpful to speak with your doctor.
Later life can bring additional layers with changes in retirement routines, health concerns, caregiving responsibilities, or social connections. These factors can make seasonal transitions feel more pronounced.
“Anxiety during seasonal change is often a sign that your nervous system is recalibrating after winter.”
ANXIETY IN SPRING: A COMMON EXPERIENCE
While anxiety is often associated with busier or more stressful times of year, many people experience it in spring. Natural light plays an important role in mood and sleep regulation, and many people benefit from increased daylight after winter. However, more light isn’t always better, especially if it’s late in the day.
There can also be subtle social pressure. Messages framing spring as a time for productivity, activity, and renewal, such as expectations around spring cleaning or fitness goals, can trigger ‘should’ statements, such as “I should be more motivated” or “I should be outdoors more”. These are often accompanied by self-criticism that adds to stress.
It’s important to remember that anxiety during seasonal change is often a sign that your nervous system is recalibrating after the winter months.
LIGHT EXPOSURE: HELPFUL, BUT PERSONAL
Longer, brighter days can heighten alertness, causing restlessness, irritability, and difficulty relaxing. Increased daylight disrupts circadian rhythms, our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, and, with daylight saving time, we also lose an hour of sleep. For many, this results in getting much less sleep than they need.
Some gentle tips:
• Try to get daylight earlier in the day; go for a short walk or sit near a window
• Ease into mornings rather than rushing into activity as soon as the sun rises
• In the evening, dim lights and reduce screen use to support better sleep
• Pay attention to how your body responds; everyone’s needs are different
• If you’ve used light therapy in winter, spring can be a time to gradually adjust rather than stopping abruptly.
A GENTLE SPRING MENTAL HEALTH CHECK-IN
Rather than making big changes, consider a few simple reflections:
• How has my sleep been lately?
• Do I feel more energized, more anxious, or a mix of both?
• What feels supportive to me right now and what feels draining?
Small, steady supports can make a difference:
• Keeping a consistent sleep and wake time
• Spending time outdoors without an agenda
• Staying socially connected in ways that feel comfortable
• Talking openly with someone you trust about how you’re feeling
MOVING THROUGH SPRING WITH COMPASSION
Stress Awareness Month invites us to notice stress early, before it becomes overwhelming. If spring feels harder than expected, you’re not alone. Mental health isn’t about meeting expectations or keeping up with change. It’s about responding kindly to change, at your own pace. This spring, a simple check-in with yourself may be one of the most supportive steps you take.
MICHELLE FOX
Michelle Fox is a Registered Psychologist with over 30 years of experience in mental health care. She began her career as a mental health nurse in the UK and now works with adults and seniors across Calgary and Alberta. Michelle offers compassionate, evidencebased therapy helping clients navigate life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and adult ADHD. With a warm, collaborative approach, she draws on decades of experience to help clients feel understood, build resilience, and reconnect with a sense of balance and well-being.
“At 70, I feel more grounded — and more energized — than ever.”
Renewal, Purpose, and the Power of Experience
By Kerri Leland
At 70, Karen Murdock feels grounded in a way she never expected, and more energized than ever.
She lives in a walkable neighbourhood in Edmonton with her husband, Don, and their puppy, Diva. Her days are full, shaped by meaningful work, steady routines, and a sense of clarity that comes from living in alignment with her values. It’s a season of life that feels lighter, more intentional, and quietly powerful.
“I wake up every day with a sense of purpose and excitement to see where the day takes me,” Karen says.
“This chapter of my life feels lighter, more intentional, and quietly powerful.”
This feeling didn’t arrive overnight. It grew from a lifetime of caregiving, professional service, and a reinvention that unfolded gradually, one thoughtful step at a time.
A LIFE BUILT AROUND CARING FOR OTHERS
Before this chapter, Karen’s life revolved around family and service. She and Don raised five children, while also caring for her parents, who eventually lived with them. Those years were demanding, emotional, and deeply meaningful.
Professionally, Karen spent much of her career in the funeral and cemetery industry. Working closely with families during moments of loss shaped her understanding of compassion, presence, and what truly matters when life feels fragile.
“That work, and the way my parents raised me, formed who I am,” she reflects. “It taught me how important it is to really see people.”
At the time, Karen didn’t view this phase as preparation for anything else. But looking back, she recognizes that the skills she developed — empathy, listening, and resilience — would become central to what came next.
THE QUIET BEGINNING OF A NEW DIRECTION
In 2012, Karen and Don moved from Manitoba to Alberta for Don’s career. The move created space to reflect and reconsider what the next chapter of life could hold.
Karen Murdock. Photo supplied
Rather than continuing along a familiar path, Karen began thinking about work that felt more aligned with her values and offered the freedom to grow in new ways. She didn’t have a fixed plan, only a sense that there was more she wanted to explore.
The true turning point came through friendship. Shortly after arriving in Alberta, Karen met Janis. The two spent time together weekly, but outside of those visits, Janis lived a very isolated life. Karen noticed changes and initially believed Janis was experiencing anxiety or depression, a diagnosis supported by her doctors at the time.
Over time, it became clear that Janis was experiencing cognitive decline. By the time Alzheimer’s was properly diagnosed, Janis moved directly from her home into a locked memory care unit.
“I don’t think that should ever happen to anyone,” Karen says.
The experience stayed with her. It revealed gaps in awareness, connection, and support, and it sparked a desire to create something that could help families notice changes earlier and stay meaningfully connected.
TURNING EXPERIENCE INTO PURPOSE
“I didn’t have a clear roadmap, but I trusted that if I took one step, the next would reveal itself.”
Karen began researching dementia and cognitive change, learning about symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early awareness. She paired that research with what she already knew: the power of photos, stories, and shared memories to connect people.
From that intersection came the early development of Voiced Memories and Cogimetry, tools designed to support cognitive wellness through familiar, human-centred experiences rooted in reminiscence and storytelling.
The process was slow and intentional.
“I didn’t have a clear roadmap,” Karen says. “But I trusted that if I took one step, the next would reveal itself.”
Stepping into the worlds of technology and innovation came with doubts. Karen didn’t have formal training in these areas and questioned whether she truly belonged.
What carried her forward was perspective.
“I reminded myself that lived experience matters,” she says. “Decades of caregiving, working with families, and understanding people have real value.”
Support from her husband, friends, and others who had walked the dementia journey helped reinforce that belief.
Karen’s husband, Don, and their puppy Diva during one of their daily walks. Diva brings a sense of purpose and movement to their days and reflects the walkable community they chose to call home.
Photo supplied
With brothers and family history. From left: Robert McIntosh, Sean McIntosh, Terry McIntosh (seated), and Karen Murdock during a family visit in 2024. The portrait behind them features their parents, Gordon and Patricia McIntosh. Photo supplied
Lifestyle & Inspiration
BRIDGING LIVED EXPERIENCE A ND EVIDENCE
Today, Karen’s work sits at the intersection of caregiving, innovation, and research.
She is currently collaborating with the University of Alberta’s School of Public Health on a research project focused on validating reminiscence therapy using Voiced Memories. The project aims to strengthen the evidence base for approaches that support cognitive and emotional well-being through meaningful personal connection.
For Karen, the collaboration feels deeply affirming.
“This work matters because it bridges lived experience with evidence-based research,” she says. “It’s about honouring people’s stories while building tools that genuinely support well-being.”
She also serves on the Stewardship Board of the Edmonton Age Friendly Alliance, helping guide efforts to make the city more inclusive, supportive, and responsive to the needs of older adults.
BUILDING A COLLABORATIVE FUTURE FOR AGING WELL
Over the past year, Karen has taken on an increasingly visible leadership role within Edmonton’s senior-serving ecosystem. She initiated and brought together leaders across sectors, including innovators, care providers, community organizations, and advocates, with a shared goal of strengthening collaboration and finding better solutions for aging well.
That collective effort led to the creation of the Silver Tech Summit, the first event of its kind in Edmonton, designed to spotlight innovation in aging and connect the people shaping the future of longevity support. The inaugural event drew more than 200 attendees, underscoring both the need and the momentum for this work.
Building on that success, Karen is now Acting President of the newly launched non-profit Silver Longevity Business Association (SLBA), formed to
continue uniting businesses and organizations working in the longevity space.
“I no longer see myself as someone working behind the scenes,” Karen says. “I see myself as a builder and a leader.”
A FRESH APPROACH TO LIVING WELL
Despite the scope of her work, Karen’s daily life remains grounded. Living in a walkable neighbourhood supports regular movement and spontaneous connection. Her work is balanced with quiet moments at home, creating a rhythm that sustains both energy and focus.
RIGHT ON TIME
Karen often hears people say they feel too old to start something new. Her response is simple.
“They’re not too old. They’re right on time.”
“This chapter feels like it fits.”
Perhaps the biggest shift has been internal.
“I feel more settled in who I am,” she says. “This chapter feels like it fits.”
Caregiving, professional service, research, and leadership are no longer separate chapters. Together, they form the foundation of what she is building now.
She started her first company at 58 and believes age brings clarity, confidence, and perspective that can’t be rushed. The later chapters of life, she says, are often when experience and purpose finally align.
Karen never imagined she would become an entrepreneur or a sector leader. Her path unfolded gradually, shaped by relationships, reflection, and a willingness to trust what felt meaningful.
This season of her life isn’t about starting over. It’s about renewal, fresh perspective, and stepping fully into work that reflects everything she has lived, and everything she still hopes to build.
Photobooth with friends: Karen celebrating with a group of friends in a photobooth last November. Bahva Jha (centre front), whom Karen nominated for an award, was the evening’s winner. Photo supplied
Timeless Tales by Mag
By Mag Barry
Timeless Tales by Mag is the culmination of a few chapters in my life.
My story began in Toronto, where I earned a degree in Interior Design and spent over a decade designing hospitality spaces. Photography was my creative hobby.
We moved our family to Edmonton in 1996 to start our own business. At this point, I was a stay-at-home mom, a decision I will never regret. I decided to return to university, and got my second degree in Education, and spent the next 10 years teaching Grade 3.
I can honestly say that each of these stages was perfect for the season of life that I was in.
As I prepared to retire from teaching in 2017, I felt a pull back to photography, and I immersed myself in workshops with some of Canada’s most respected photographers.
In 2022, one of my photographs was selected in a U.S. competition. The gallery curator said to me, “If you haven’t started a portrait photography business yet, you should.”
Wow! I launched my business soon after, focusing initially on branding. I was successful, but something was missing.
WHERE PHOTOGRAPHY BECAME A CALLING
What I was missing became clear when I returned to what I have always loved most: listening to people’s stories, especially the ones of seniors.
As a child, I spent time living in the Dominican Republic, where seniors are deeply respected. I sat and listened for hours as they told stories of their lives.
Storytelling became a part of my life, and listening to them made me feel good. I learned to respect and value what seniors said.
From that realization, Timeless Tales by Mag was born: a legacy portrait series honouring seniors over 80.
My approach to this work is rooted in connection. I visit each senior three to four times in their home, and we share coffee and conversation. I ask questions and listen.
These visits are about trust, and only when I feel that they like, know and trust me, do I bring up the topic of the photoshoot.
A LIFE LIVED — MARGARET SHONE
Margaret’s story unfolds much the same way. At 83, she is obsessed with tennis. But this passion didn’t arrive overnight.
IN HER OWN WORDS: Tennis and Me.
Here I am, 83-years-old and obsessed with tennis. How did this come about? Where did it all begin?
For most of my life, tennis has been a mere snippet. But there is a continuing thread of connection.
1955 to 1960: Growing up in Calgary. My introduction to tennis began in my teenage years. My best friend’s backyard was situated on the hill directly above the Calgary Tennis Club. We would grab our tennis racquets and balls, hop down her backyard steps, cross the lane, slide down the remainder of the hill, and we were there. A good backboard to practice on.
Six shale courts to play on when not in use by members. Summers only. No formal lessons, but friendly Club members gave tips on how to play. I wasn’t hugely enticed then, and I wasn’t very good. However, together with other young players, we tried our best and had a lot of fun.
1960 to 1965: University days in Saskatoon. No tennis.
1965 to 1969: University days in Toronto. During two summers, I taught English to new Canadians in a school set up for this purpose. Fortune led me to form friendships with young teaching colleagues who played tennis, knew where to find courts, and were looking for other players. As in the teenage years, none of us was particularly talented, but we happily swatted balls to the best of our abilities, laughing giddily over our imperfect shots and thoroughly enjoying our frivolous pastime.
1969 to 1972: Early days of marriage and professional employment, first in Calgary, later in Edmonton. No tennis.
1973 to 1974: I was now living in Edmonton and employed by the Alberta Law Reform Institute at the University of Alberta. A colleague with tennis experience expressed interest in playing. The Garneau Tennis Club was just four blocks away. I took some group tennis classes and, with my colleague, developed a routine of playing tennis over the lunch hour during the summer months. This lasted for two summers.
1975 to 2005: Family and career days. Thirty years. No tennis. On occasion, however, I watched professional tennis matches on TV, especially the annual Wimbledon tournament.
2005 to present. Retirement. The luxury of time. How would I fill it? Somehow, the idea of tennis squirrelled its way into my head. The University’s Saville Community Sports Centre offered tennis opportunities, year-round, indoors and outdoors. It came with coaches and group lesson opportunities. I took out a membership and signed up for lessons. I met others at my level of play. The obsession began to settle in. I was challenged and wanted to get better. I acquired a coach. I played more often. I attended summer camps for more instruction. The obsession took over. After twenty years of uninterrupted play, I still strive to improve my technique
and my game. Progression has come from continuing determination and a sequence of slow, steady gains. Most pleasing of all, and amazing to me at this time of life, is that my body is holding up.
Kudos to the Saville Community Sports Centre, a top-notch facility with a warm, accommodating staff, terrific coaches and a wide range of interesting, friendly members. Tennis offers unexpected benefits. You can play well into your senior years; it’s great for maintaining physical fitness and opens social opportunities.
Watching Margaret speak about tennis, you see it immediately: she is happy. Her story is about lifelong learning, persistence, curiosity, and the power of showing up, again and again.
I said to Margaret, ”Margaret, it’s wonderful to see you always smiling. You genuinely look so happy at 83.” She replied, “What’s there to be sad about? I get to play as much tennis as I want, I’m healthy, and I get to live my life the way I choose. I have wonderful friends and a great community.”
HONOURING LIVES WELL LIVED
At the first visit, many seniors ask me why I care about their story or why I would want to photograph them. By the second or third visit, they begin to realize their life matters.
Margaret is no exception. By the time she stepped in front of my camera, she was all in, felt honoured and had fun!
Timeless Tales by Mag is often commissioned by children and families who want to honour the seniors they cherish, to preserve their stories with intention and respect. The experience is calm, reflecting my core values of impact, kindness, and connection.
REDEFINING SUCCESS AFTER 55
This third career has become the most fulfilling chapter of my life.
In a culture that often overlooks aging, my work offers a different perspective— one that celebrates wisdom and resilience.
Seniors like Margaret Shone remind us that life does not diminish with age — it deepens. And through Timeless Tales by Mag, these lives are not only remembered, but honoured.
Magdalena Barry Photographer
Inspired To Go
Travel & Leisure Reads for Albertans 55+
By Kerri Leland
Whether you’re dreaming of a scenic Alberta road trip, planning an RV adventure, or researching a winter escape, these trusted travel websites and blogs offer inspiration, practical advice, and thoughtful guidance for travellers 55+. From slow travel and RV prep to snowbird living and senior-friendly destinations, these reads are well worth bookmarking.
WILD & FREE
seniorsontheloose.ca
Travel stories by seniors, for seniors
This Canadian travel blog follows active retirees, Joe & Tess, as they explore parks, cities, and scenic routes in Canada and beyond. The writing is relatable, realistic, and refreshingly honest, making it ideal for readers who want inspiration without the hype. Expect beautiful photography, personal storytelling, and travel ideas that prioritize enjoyment over exhaustion.
Best for: Canadian travel inspiration, parks, and realistic senior travel experiences.
SENIOR TRAVEL FOR CANADIAN RETIREES
senior-travel.ca
Travel ideas designed with Canadian retirees in mind
Senior Travel for Canadian Retirees focuses on helping older adults travel comfortably, confidently, and wellinformed. Topics range from destination inspiration and trip planning to practical considerations like pacing, accessibility, and travel insurance. It’s especially helpful for retirees planning longer trips or traveling in the next phase of life.
Best for: Retirement travel planning and Canadian perspectives
CANADA SNOWBIRDS canadasnowbirds.com
Everything you need to know about wintering away
A must-read for Albertans considering longer stays in warmer climates. Canada Snowbirds offers in-depth resources on popular snowbird destinations, cross-border travel tips, health insurance considerations, RV travel, and extended stays abroad. It’s practical, detailed, and written specifically for Canadians.
Best for: Snowbirds, long stays, and winter escapes
LIVING THE RV LIFE livingthervlife.net
Smart advice for RVers at every stage
Living the RV Life is one of the most trusted names in RV travel, offering articles on trip planning, RV maintenance, safety tips, campground reviews, and lifestyle insights. Whether you own an RV or are considering renting one for a summer adventure, Tracey and Rob’s site provides clear, practical guidance without overwhelming jargon.
Best for: RV prep, road trips, and campground planning
THE RV ATLAS thervatlas.com
Plan better RV trips, with less stress
The RV Atlas focuses on routes, campgrounds, and travel planning tools that help RVers make the most of their time on the road. The site emphasizes realistic driving distances, comfortable stops, and thoughtful itineraries — a great fit for travellers who value ease and enjoyment over rushing from place to place.
Best for: Route planning and campground insights
ELDERTREKS
eldertreks.com
Adventure travel for people 50+
Based in Canada, ElderTreks specializes in small-group adventure travel designed specifically for adults 50 and older. Even if guided travel isn’t your style, their itineraries and blog content are excellent sources of inspiration for bucket-list destinations and meaningful travel experiences around the world.
Best for: Guided travel inspiration and global adventures
ATLAS OBSCURA
atlasobscura.com
Discover the world’s hidden wonders
For travellers who enjoy curiositydriven exploration, Atlas Obscura highlights unusual destinations, cultural oddities, and lesser-known attractions. It’s a wonderful resource for adding unique stops to road trips or finding something unexpected close to home.
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path travel ideas
TRAVEL + LEISURE
travelandleisure.com
Classic travel inspiration, beautifully done
Be sure to check out their 724 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Canada!
Your Compass in the Complex World of Senior Living
When the System Feels Overwhelming, You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone.
At Nana’s Navigator, we provide trusted, personalized guidance for seniors and families navigating Alberta’s senior services system.
Backed by 25+ years of industry leadership and lived experience, we help families move forward with clarity, dignity, and informed choice —every step of the way.
Book your complimentary 15-minute discovery call today!
Travel + Leisure offers destination features, hotel and resort guides, cruise ideas, and seasonal travel roundups. While not seniorspecific, it’s an excellent source of inspiration for relaxed, comfortable travel experiences — especially for readers planning milestone trips or special getaways.
Best for: Leisure travel, destination ideas, and trip inspiration
LONELY PLANET lonelyplanet.com
A trusted guide for planning at your own pace
Lonely Planet remains one of the most reliable travel resources for destination guides, itineraries, and cultural context. It’s particularly useful for travellers who like to research thoroughly and plan trips that balance sightseeing with downtime.
Best for: Destination research and travel planning
WHY WE LOVE THESE READS
Travel after 55 is less about checking boxes and more about comfort, curiosity, and meaningful experiences. These recommended reads reflect that mindset, offering inspiration without pressure, and advice that respects your time, energy, and interests.
Means Making Informed Food Choices, And It’s Never Too Late to Start
By Diabetes Canada
Nearly 30 per cent of people over 65 in Canada live with diabetes. The encouraging news? Healthy eating for diabetes doesn’t require complicated recipes or expensive specialty foods. According to Diabetes Canada, simple, practical strategies can help you manage your blood sugar while enjoying satisfying, delicious meals.
THE PLATE METHOD
Canada’s Food Guide recommends building each plate or bowl with half vegetables and fruit, a quarter whole grains, and a quarter protein. This is the recommended way of eating for people living with diabetes as it ensures you get fibre with lots of non-starchy vegetables and whole grains, as well as lean protein at each meal.
LIMIT SUGARS, SWEETS, AND SALT
Reducing added sugars helps prevent blood sugar spikes and supports overall health. Limit sugar-sweetened drinks, desserts, candy, and sweetened cereals. When you do enjoy treats, keep portions small and pair them with protein or fibre to minimize blood sugar impact.
Similarly, limiting salt helps manage blood pressure—particularly important since people living with diabetes face higher cardiovascular risks. Try using herbs and spices to add flavour instead of always reaching for the saltshaker.
EAT REGULARLY THROUGHOUT THE DAY
Skipping meals can cause blood sugar fluctuations, especially if you take diabetes medications. Aim for regular mealtimes, spacing meals about four to six hours apart. This consistency helps your body manage glucose more effectively and reduces the risk of hypoglycemia.
INCLUDE HEALTHY CARBOHYDRATES AND FIBRE
Not all carbohydrates affect blood sugar equally. Choose high-fibre options like beans, lentils, whole grains, and most vegetables and fruits. Fibre slows digestion, leading to more stable blood sugars and helping you feel satisfied longer.
YOUR JOURNEY AHEAD
Managing diabetes through healthy eating is about building sustainable habits that fit your lifestyle. Talk with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian about creating an eating plan tailored to your specific needs, medications, and health goals. With the right approach, you can enjoy delicious, satisfying meals while keeping your diabetes well-managed and living your healthiest life.
For more support managing diabetes, visit diabetes.ca or sign up for our monthly virtual diabetes education program.
White Fish with Roast Garlic & Lentil Mash
A healthy dinner with layers of flavour and texture. Mashed lentils make a great bed for tender halibut while fresh herbs and seasoning add zest.
Prep Time: 5 minutes • Cook Time: 10 minutes
Calories: 560 • Serving Size: 4
INGREDIENTS
Roasted Garlic
• 2 heads of garlic
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) canola oil
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) chopped fresh parsley
• 1 4 tsp (1 mL) fresh ground pepper
Lentil Mash
• canola oil cooking spray
• 2 cups (500 mL) cooked or canned, rinsed and drained, green lentils
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp (10 mL) chopped fresh thyme
• 1 2 cup (125 mL) reduced-sodium vegetable broth
Fish
• 4 white fish fillets (about 1 lb/500 g)
• canola oil cooking spray
• 1 2 tsp (2 mL) curry powder
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) chopped fresh parsley
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C).
2. Cut stem off garlic heads to expose cloves. Wrap with foil and roast for about 1 hour until very soft. Let cool slightly. Squeeze out garlic cloves from each head and mash in canola oil with fork. Stir in parsley and pepper; set aside.
3. To prepare lentil mash: spray nonstick skillet with canola oil cooking spray and over medium heat, add lentils, tomatoes, garlic and thyme. Cook for 5 minutes; mash slightly. Stir in broth and keep warm.
4. Spray fish fillets with canola oil cooking spray and sprinkle with curry powder and parsley. Preheat oven to 350 °F (180 °C).
5. In nonstick, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, sear fish on both sides. Spread roasted garlic mixture on top of fillets and place in oven for about 5 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested.
6. Spoon lentil mixture into shallow bowl and top with fish fillets.
NOTES
If using canned lentils, rinse and drain them first. Also, you can roast multiple garlic heads ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Simply thaw before using in the recipe.
Spring Greens & Berry Pear Layered Smoothie
Prep Time: 15 min • Cook Time: N/A
Calories: 130 • Serving Size: 1 serving (250 mL)
This pretty purple and green pear smoothie celebrates spring with fresh greens and sweet basil layered with deep purple berries. Kefir is a drinkable yogurt full of probiotics. Spinach and chia seeds are both “superfoods” packed with fiber, protein, vitamins and many other nutrients. Mixed with the antioxidant-rich berries, and all that fiber and vitamin C found in the pears, and with this you’ll have a vibrant, healthy way to start your day.
INGREDIENTS
Green Layer
• 1 very ripe or overripe Green Bartlett, Anjou, or Comice Pear, cored and chopped
The black beans and lentils make this salad high in fibre and protein. The chili-lime vinaigrette adds a punch of flavour that will leave you wanting more!
INGREDIENTS
• 1 can (19 oz./540 mL) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (19 oz./540 mL) lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 avocado, chopped
• 1 very ripe or slightly overripe Red Bartlett or Anjou Pear
• 1 2 cup (125 mL) blueberry kefir
• 1 cup (250 mL) purple spring berries, such as blackberries, blueberries, and marionberries
• Juice of 1 2 Meyer or regular lemon
• 1 tablespoon (15 mL) chia seeds
• 1 2 cup (125 mL) ice
INSTRUCTIONS
To make the green layer: Add the ingredients to a highpowered blender in the order they appear and process until smooth. Pour the smoothie into a pitcher or jar, and set aside.
To make the purple layer: Add the ingredients to the blender in the order they appear and process until smooth.
To assemble: Divide the purple smoothie among glasses. With a spoon resting on the surface of the purple layer, slowly pour the green layer onto the spoon to begin filling the glass. (The spoon will allow the green layer to remain separate from the purple layer.) Continue to pour in all of the green smoothie, dividing it evenly. Serve immediately.
As the last bit of snow finally melts and while you’re planning which vegetables to grow in your garden this spring, now is the perfect time to declutter an often-forgotten but hard-working appliance – your freezer. Speaking from experience, for me, these great inventions become a time capsule containing my last year’s surplus holiday turkey and those extra rhubarb muffins I baked for a summer picnic. Together, let’s confront the leftovers we promised ourselves we would eat one day and the mystery packages of I-don’t-know-what. Begin by unplugging the freezer and pulling out all the contents. Discard expired food and mystery containers full of contents we have no idea what is inside. Allow any ice build-up to thaw and wipe that chest freezer down completely inside. Now comes the best part: group remaining freezer food into like items together so we can visually see the quantity and inventory in each category. For instance, cluster categories of baking, fruit, vegetables and meat. You might dis-
cover you have seven frozen bags of shredded zucchini.
As you add items to your freezer in the future, mark the date on each container. Green painter’s tape works great for this purpose. Consider creating a checklist so you can add items to it as you freeze them and mark off items as you use them. Bravo! Together, we’ve just set ourselves up for a fresh new start to our spring by knowing what’s on hand in our frozen section, reducing buying of duplicates, and now, our deep freezer is significantly more energy efficient, too. Your model might just last another 50 years!
Eazy Peazy Downsizing is celebrating its fifth year in business. Founded by Nicole Skiba, a Professional Home Economist and Trained Professional Organizer, the company was inspired by Nicole’s experience helping her own dad through the downsizing process. Today, Nicole and her dedicated team, Nancy, Lindsey and Dee, support older adults and families with practical, respectful help during life’s transitions. Contact Nicole at 587-598-6123 or eazypeazydownsizing.ca for more information.
“Together,
let’s confront the leftovers we promised ourselves we’d eat one day — and finally make peace with the mystery packages of I-don’t-know-what.”
Out with Winter, in With Light
Simple Ways to Freshen Your Home for Spring
By Leigh Fortier
By the time March rolls around, most of us are more than ready to say goodbye to snow, cold, and early sunsets. Spring still feels far off, but those first few milder days—cracking open a window, feeling the sun on your face, taking a walk in just a light jacket—can lift the spirits in an instant.
So why wait for spring to officially arrive? With a few small tweaks, you can invite that fresh, hopeful feeling into your home without spending a dime. Here are some easy, affordable ways to breathe new life into your space using items you already have.
“Spring isn’t just something that happens outside; it begins right where you are.”
LET THE LIGHT BACK IN
Winter tends to close everything up: curtains drawn early, lights on for most of the day, cozy corners that feel more like hibernation spots. As the days gradually get longer, it’s time to invite the light back inside.
Try this:
• Open curtains fully during the day and swap heavy drapes for sheer panels if you have them.
• Place a mirror beside or across from a window to reflect sunlight and brighten the room.
• Create a “sun nook” by moving a comfy chair near a sunny window, a perfect spot for morning coffee or an afternoon read.
• Give your windows a quick clean, inside and out. You’ll be surprised how much more light pours in.
REARRANGE, DON’T REPLACE
A fresh perspective doesn’t always mean buying something new. Sometimes, just moving things around can make a room feel completely different.
Try this:
• Angle furniture slightly or pull it away from the walls to create a cozier, more open layout.
• Swap lamps, throw pillows, or blankets between rooms for a quick refresh.
• Use an unused stool or ottoman as a side table for a plant, candle, or book.
• Clear off one small surface, such as a dresser or coffee table, and restyle it with purpose.
SHOP YOUR HOME FOR DECOR
Before heading out to buy anything, take a “treasure hunt” walk through your house. You might be surprised at what you already have that can be repurposed for a spring update.
Try this:
• Switch out throw pillow covers for lighter, brighter ones if you have them stored away.
• Fill a bowl with lemons, oranges, or apples for a pop of colour and a fresh scent.
• Bring in twigs, budding branches, or evergreens from the yard and display them in a vase or mason jar.
• Plant spring bulbs in unused teacups, mugs, or bowls for a charming windowsill display.
• Cut up old greeting cards or calendar pages and frame the artwork for instant seasonal décor.
• Stack a few pastel-colored or floral-covered books on your coffee table for a soft spring accent.
REFRESH THE SENSES
Spring is more than a look—it’s a feeling. Lightening the air and adding fresh scents can lift the whole mood of your home.
Try this:
• On a mild day, open windows for a few minutes to let fresh air flow through.
• Tuck dryer sheets or sachets into drawers and closets for a subtle scent boost.
• Dust off houseplants and move them closer to sunlight to help them thrive.
• Simmer a pot of water with citrus peels and a sprig of rosemary or mint for a natural, comforting fragrance.
CREATE A SEASONAL DISPLAY
You don’t need a full home makeover. Just focusing on one cheerful corner can make a big difference.
Try this:
• Turn a serving tray into a spring vignette with a candle, plant, and a favourite book or trinket.
• Group a few items together in a sunny spot—like a floral mug, a framed photo, and a vase of pussy willows.
• Pick up a small grocery store bouquet for a quick splash of colour.
• Find an old book with botanical illustrations, and frame a few pages for unique wall art.
A GENTLE REMINDER
Bringing a touch of spring into your home doesn’t require new furniture, a shopping spree, or fancy tools. With a few thoughtful shifts—lighter fabrics, brighter corners, and subtle scents—you can gently wake your space from its winter rest.
Start with one corner, one cushion, or one bowl of lemons.
“Start with one corner, one cushion, or one bowl of lemons — and let your home stretch slowly into the new season.”
Let your home stretch slowly into the new season. Because spring isn’t just something that happens outside; it begins right where you are.
LEIGH FORTIER
Leigh Fortier is the owner and lead stylist of Stage & Style by Leigh, an Edmonton-based home staging company helping realtors, home builders, and homeowners get better results through strategic, buyer-focused design.
With a background in real estate and property investing, plus hands-on experience staging homes across Edmonton and area, Leigh brings practical insight and a “keep it real” approach to every project.
What’s In It For Me? The Benefits of Volunteering
By Andrés Alvarez
There’s a Spanish saying I find funny: “Pagas para que te alquilen,” or “You pay to get rented out.” It’s used to describe people who love to help others; people whose happiness is tied to giving a hand, or volunteering.
I’m sure we all know someone like that. Maybe you are that person. What’s interesting is that the phrase uses “pay” as a way to show how far some people will go to help. Most definitions of volunteering focus on it being unpaid work that helps someone else. Often, it’s seen as something only people with lots of time and money do for those with less. But does that really match what most of us see? Is it only people with extra resources who help out? And if there’s no money involved, is it true that only the recipient ben-
efits? Maybe there’s another kind of reward; something you don’t see on a bank statement, but that keeps people coming back. Or maybe this idea of transactions is missing the bigger picture about community and getting involved.
In 2025, Volunteer Alberta teamed up with the social design agency InWithForward to do some research. We had seen numbers telling us that volunteering had dropped a lot after COVID-19, which many saw as a crisis. However, we wanted to know the story behind those numbers. We did not know if people were not wanting to help anymore, or if this help wasn’t being considered as volunteerism, or at least in the way we were defining it. This made us think differently about what volunteering means. Instead of seeing it only as a way to help others,
we started to view volunteering as a way to meet basic human needs, like security, purpose, self-worth, and connection. In this light, volunteering is not just good for communities but also good for the volunteer. With this in mind, I’d like to share some key findings and ideas with you.
Most of us have volunteered at some point; maybe for a school project, or by helping out through family activities, like watching a parent coach a sports team. In our research, people often shared positive memories of their volunteering, even if they weren’t volunteering at the time we met them. This was especially true for Albertans aged 55 and up. For many, retiring isn’t just about slowing down; it’s a chance to find new ways to stay connected and valued. We met people like Dennis, who calls his volunteering a “personal
Community & Connection
blessing.” That idea challenges the thought that volunteering is only about giving. For Dennis, and many others, the real reward is in the giving. It helps build a network of relationships that makes our communities feel safer and closer.
Dennis, however, is what we call a “lifelong community builder”; he has been an active volunteer for many years. But how can others find their way back to volunteerism? And where do we find these opportunities? One common narrative is that there’s one right way to volunteer: a way that counts and another that seems less valid or not formal enough to count. This split between formal and informal volunteering did not account for the lots of people we saw already helping out in their communities. Things like helping a neighbour or giving someone a ride might not even be called volunteering, but they still matter. Maybe these small, flexible ways of helping are the easiest way to get into volunteering. And as we help each other, we can make new friends and learn new things, too.
Time was another big barrier for people thinking about volunteering. The idea of being stuck in a long-term role that doesn’t fit can be discouraging. That’s why “micro-volunteering”...short, simple tasks…can be a great way to get involved. A great way to start is to think of things you are good at, things you want to learn to do better, or things you have not done before but enjoyed and might want to try again.
Picture it like a sampler pack: you can try out different roles and see what you enjoy, without a big commitment. Volunteering should be something you enjoy, not a chore. After you have a better idea of the “what”, the only thing left is to ask
and offer. This is where opportunities get lost most of the time, when no one asks. A lot of people are already connected to a cause or project, or might need a hand themselves, but they’re too shy to ask. On the other hand, many people are eager to help but don’t know where to put their energy. A simple conversation with a friend or acquaintance, where we say, “I’ve been thinking that I want to do more of x or y,” could spark that ask.
So, coming back to that phrase, “You pay to get rented out,” it makes sense, helping others is an investment in your own well-being. So here’s an invitation: whether you help a neighbour, join a shortterm project, or just offer a little time, your experience matters. You don’t need a lot of time to make a big difference. All you need is the willingness to connect.
ANDRÉS ALVAREZ
Andrés Alvarez is a Research and Knowledge Mobilization Specialist at Volunteer Alberta. With a background in Creative Direction and a postgraduate degree in Gender and Social Justice from the University of Alberta, his work is rooted in a deep-seated interest in advocating for dignity and equity for those society often marginalizes.
Andrés is a firm believer in using storytelling to translate complex research into tools that fuel community action. He is the type of person who would always rather be out lending a hand than staying at home, a trait that fuels his work in engaging others in the “web of interdependence.” Originally from Mexico and now calling Edmonton home, he spends his free time with his partner, pets, and friends, ideally exploring nature along the way. He is an avid music lover and an unofficial local expert on Edmonton’s taco scene. Just don’t ask him for his thoughts on taco salad.
If you want to learn more about our research, reach out to us at info@volunteeralberta.ab.ca.
If you want to find volunteer opportunities through more traditional channels, one of our most recommended websites is Volunteer Connector, which is based in Alberta. It lets you search by location, activity type, interest, or commitment level. You can also browse organizations in your area and follow them to be notified when they post new opportunities.
Around Alberta Events Worth Getting Out For
There’s so much to do across Alberta as we move into March and April! With longer days and the promise of spring ahead, it’s a wonderful time to get out, stay active, and reconnect with your community. Be sure to check with your local seniors’ associations and community centres for events and activities happening near you. Here are just a few opportunities to step out, meet some new people, and maybe even try something new this season.
MARCH 2026
• March 3 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cards - includes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
• March 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Pioneer House East Wing in Fort Saskatchewan: Service Canada Clinic. Drop-in federal outreach for help with MyServiceCanada, benefits, pensions, and general questions. This will be a valuable opportunity for personalized support.
• March 3 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice. Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• March 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance, flexibility, and concentrates on slow controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
• March 4 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Hinton Library (Tom Peterson Room) in Hinton: Grief & Loss with Recovery Alberta. Free; Join Hinton FCSS’s 55 & Thriving program for a free practical information session about the nature of grief, common reactions to loss and strategies for coping and selfcare. Come learn, connect, and enjoy the company.
• March 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Zumbaparticipants are encouraged to wear comfortable, but snug clothing, and running shoes. Water can be provided, but a personal water bottle is encouraged. Participants are responsible for their own towels, if needed. Registration is not required.
Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society
Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society in Calgary
Pioneer House East Wing in Fort Saskatchewan
Community & Connection
• March 5 from 6:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Hinton Legion - Scam Smart: Protect Your Assets with Julie Matthews. Free; Join Hinton FCSS’s Protect Your Assets Program for a special presentation with Julie Matthews a trusted fraud prevention educator and scam fighter! Learn how to spot the scams and recognize the red flags to keep from becoming a victim. Everyone is welcome!
• March 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• March 6 from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre in Calgary: Cornhole Tournament. $30.00 entry fee per person, lunch is included, and prizes money to the winning team. So grab your partner and sign up, and compete in this competitive tournament.
• March 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Coffee & Conversation! $2 Drop-in. Join us for informal chats over coffee! This week’s topic: Open Discussion.
• March 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Pioneer House East Wing in Fort Saskatchewan: Funeral PrePlanning Info Session with Kelsee Sharp, Dignity Memorial. The outcome of this presentation is for folks to be equipped with knowledge of considerations for end-of-life planning, but also how to navigate these conversations as a family to reduce stress as much as possible and streamline the process.
• March 10 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice. Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• March 10 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cardsincludes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
• March 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Right bin for the win! Free. A fun and interactive activity from The City of Calgary and learn more about recycling the easy way. This game show–style experience makes learning fun and practical, with helpful tips you can use every day. Sign up at the front desk — walk-ins are welcome! Come play, learn, and recycle right!
• March 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance, flexibility, and concentrates on slow, controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
• March 12 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Community Breakfast - $12 plate. Start your day with friends… and breakfast! Join us for a tasty morning, warm coffee, and great company.
Hinton Royal Canadian Legion Branch #249
Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre in Calgary
Pioneer House East Wing in Fort Saskatchewan
Central Lions Seniors Association in Edmonton
• March 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• March 17 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cards - includes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
• March 17 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice. Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• March 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance and flexibility, and concentrates on slow, controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
• March 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• March 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Coffee & Conversation! $2 Drop-in. Join us for informal chats over coffee! This week topic: March 23 - Self Compassion, speaker Mary McKeown
• March 24 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cards - includes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
• March 24 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice.
Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• March 26 from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Birthday Supper; $27 ticket. Celebrate our March birthday guests with a 3-course dinner and enjoy live entertainment. Ticket sales close at the end of business day on the Tuesday before the event—book early!
• March 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• March 26 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at First United Church in Fort Saskatchewan: Caregiver Support Group. A supportive discussion space for caregivers to share experiences and resources.
Small Town Care.
Big City Technology.
Frequency Hearing is proud to be Beaumont’s first local hearing clinic serving Beaumont, Leduc, Edmonton, and the surrounding region.
4920 50 Avenue, Beaumont, AB T4X 1J9
Open Weekdays: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Late appointments are available by request T: 780-737-7117
frequencyhearing.ca
Community & Connection
• March 26 - March 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at CLSA: CLSA Spring Book Sale. Free to attend; soft cover books $1, hardcover books $2. From bestsellers to hidden gems, we’ve got thrillers, romance, biographies, self-help, and so much more waiting for you! It’s the perfect chance to refresh your bookshelf with incredible reads at unbeatable prices.
• March 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance, flexibility, and concentrates on slow, controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
• March 31 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice. Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• March 31 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cardsincludes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
APRIL 2026
• April 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance, flexibility, and concentrates on slow, controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
• April 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• April 7 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice. Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• April 7 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cards - includes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
• April 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Hinton Library (Tom Peterson Room) in Hinton: Positive Psychology with Recovery Alberta. Free; Join Hinton FCSS’s 55 & Thriving program for a free practical information session on positive psychology and the things we know contribute to an individual’s happiness. Come learn, connect, and enjoy the company.
• April 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance, flexibility, and concentrates on slow, controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
• April 9 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Community Breakfast - $12 plate. Start your day with friends… and breakfast! Join us for a tasty morning, warm coffee, and great company.
• April 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• April 14 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cards - includes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
• April 14 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice. Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• April 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance, flexibility, and concentrates on slow, controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
• April 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• April 21 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cards - includes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
• April 21 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice. Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• April 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance, flexibility, and concentrates on slow, controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
Plan Ahead With Cooperative Memorial Society
Since 1966, the Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS) has helped Albertans plan ahead with compassion and integrity. As a nonprofit, we partner with locally owned funeral homes to offer affordable, straightforward funeral and cremation plans at member prices—helping families avoid financial strain and stressful last-minute decisions. Peace of mind. No prepurchase required.
Community & Connection
• April 23 from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Birthday Supper; $27 ticket. Celebrate our March birthday guests with a 3-course dinner and enjoy live entertainment. Ticket sales close at end of business the Tuesday before the event—book early!
• April 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• April 28 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: 55+ Cards - includes beverages, snacks, and any kind of game that the group is feeling that day. A selection of games is provided, and the attendees are welcome to bring their own as well. Registration is not required.
• April 28 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at GFLS (Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society) in Calgary: Step by Step English - Free; suggested $2 contribution. Learn English for free! Join us for relaxed, conversational English practice. Learn it step by step - the easy way! Free parking available. Designed for adults 55+, but anyone 18+ is welcome. Donations to our coffee fund are greatly appreciated. Come learn, connect, and have fun!
• April 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Barrhead & District Family & Community Support Services Society: Tai Chi - Free. Join us for relaxed exercise; this program helps to increase balance, flexibility, and concentrates on slow, controlled movements. Learn it step by step – the easy way! Come learn, connect, get fit, and have fun!
• April 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Barrhead & District Family and Community Support Services Society: CVITP Tax Program for Low Income Seniors. Free; this program is for seniors who cannot afford an accountant to complete their year end taxes - individual or couple claims only (no businesses). Clients will be accepted as time allows. First come, first served (no appointments).
• April 30 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at First United Church in Fort Saskatchewan: Caregiver Support Group. A supportive discussion space for caregivers to share experiences and resources.
LOOKING FURTHER AHEAD
JUNE
• June 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at River Cree Resort & Casino: Older, Bolder, Better!™ Seniors Exhibition & Symposium. Calling all older adults! Free Event - Don’t miss out on the largest and most extraordinary event during Alberta Seniors Week - Older, Bolder, Better 2025! Featuring over 100 senior serving businesses and organizations. Door prizes, 50/50 draw, educational presentations, entertainment and more!
• June 5 from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm at Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre in Calgary: Senior Information Fair. Free for the public. A great place to gather information in one single spot.
SEPTEMBER
• September 11 from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm at Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre in Calgary: Seniors Olympics 2026. Free registration, Lunch is available for $15.00. Wide range of events. Amazing prizes for the winner of each event.
First United Church in Fort Saskatchewan
River Cree Resort & Casino
AHow the Knights of Columbus Helps Seniors Prepare for the Rising Costs of Long-Term Care
s you approach retirement—or settle into it—your priorities naturally shift. You’ve spent decades building a life, raising a family, and setting aside savings to enjoy your later years. Yet one of the most significant financial challenges many retirees face is the possibility of an extended care event brought on by chronic illness, mobility issues, or simply the natural changes that come with age.
The Knights of Columbus offers seniors and near-retirees a practical, compassionate plan to safeguard both independence and financial security.
WHY LONG-TERM CARE PLANNING IS ESSENTIAL
You’ve worked hard to build your retirement nest egg. But even the strongest financial plan can be overwhelmed if long-term care becomes necessary. The costs of home care, assisted living, or nursing home services continue to rise each year, and traditional health insurance or Medicare provide limited coverage.
Many seniors say their hope is to remain independent or rely on family if needed. But caring for an aging parent can place immense physical, emotional, and financial pressure on loved ones.
IMPORTANT FACTORS TO CONSIDER:
• Who will provide care for you if your health needs change?
• Do you want your adult children to balance caregiving with their own work and family?
• Can your savings support both your lifestyle and potential long-term care costs?
Planning today helps ensure your family can offer support—not carry the full burden.
PROTECTING THE RETIREMENT YOU’VE EARNED
Your retirement savings were built to support your lifestyle, travel plans, and financial stability between you and your spouse. But an extended care event can rapidly drain assets meant to last decades.
Long-term care insurance from the Knights of Columbus helps protect:
• Your retirement income
• Your spouse’s financial future
• Your hard-earned savings
• Your ability to choose the type of care you receive
You have worked hard your whole life, instead of relying solely on personal assets—or family—coverage provides dependable financial support when care is needed most. This allows you some peace of mind that your own funds will not be depleted, and you can enjoy your life to the fullest.
THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS LONG-TERM CARE ADVANTAGE
A Knights of Columbus Long-Term Care Insurance Policy is designed with the values of dignity, stability, and independence in mind. For seniors and near-retirees, it offers:
• Coverage for care in the setting you prefer — whether at home, in assisted living, or in a facility
• Protection of lifetime savings from the continuing high cost of care
• Access to professional caregivers so family members can focus on emotional support rather than full-time responsibility
• Care management services to help coordinate appointments, services, and providers
This is not just insurance—it’s a safeguard for your independence.
THE COMFORT OF STAYING AT HOME
Most seniors say they want to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own home. Knights of Columbus longterm care policies include options that support home-based care, including:
• Licensed home health aides
• Skilled nursing visits
• Care coordination
• Supportive equipment and services
Your home can remain your sanctuary, even as your care needs change.
A COMPLETE RETIREMENT PROTECTION STRATEGY
Your extended care plan may include a combination of:
• Long-term care insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement annuities
Together, these tools create a foundation of financial confidence—ensuring your retirement years remain secure, comfortable, and aligned with your values.
FAITH, FAMILY, AND SECURITY FOR THE ROAD AHEAD
For generations, the Knights of Columbus has stood beside Catholic families, offering protection rooted in service, integrity, and faith. As you explore the next stage of life, long-term care planning is one of the greatest gifts you can give—both to yourself and to those you love.
Retirement should be a time of peace. With the right plan, it can be.
Tax Season Scams What Every Albertan Should Know
By Julie Matthews
It starts small. One day you receive a text, email, or phone call claiming to be from the Canada Revenue Agency. The message may say there’s a problem with your tax return. It may say that you owe money, or maybe that you’re entitled to a refund. The words and the voice are convincing, sometimes even scary. They may use words like “act now”. They may threaten you with extra penalties or even arrest.
Emails and texts may include official logos, legitimate names and reference numbers. At first glance, it feels legitimate. That’s exactly what fraudsters are counting on. You are communicating with a scammer. Fraud is a huge and evolving problem in Canada. From January 1 to September 30, 2025, Canadians reported $554-million in losses to the Canadian AntiFraud Centre. That are only the reported losses. Many victims of scams never report it, often out of embarrassment and shame. Every tax season, Canadians lose millions of dollars to scams designed
to impersonate trusted government agencies and financial institutions. In Alberta, these scams often surge between February and April, when tax filing is top of mind and communication from legitimate organizations increases. Fraudsters take advantage of this timing, knowing their messages are less likely to seem suspicious.
Tax season scams can be especially effective with Canadians over the age of 55 because fraudsters rely on trust and a sense of responsibility. Many people in this age group have spent decades filing their taxes properly and responding promptly to official requests. They are responsible rule followers. Scammers exploit that instinct to comply and will create messages that sound both urgent and authoritative.
“At first glance, it feels legitimate — and that’s exactly what fraudsters are counting on.”
Their goal often is to also trigger an emotional reaction. They exploit our emotions. It may be concern about owing money, fear of penalties, or excitement about receiving a refund. When emotions take over, many people tend to act quickly without stopping to verify the source. It can only take seconds to get caught
Scammers don’t just steal information; they exploit fear, urgency, and trust.”
up in one of these scams. Many of the emails and text messages may contain a link the fraudsters want you to click. Clicking that link may redirect you to a fake website of an agency you trust where you are asked to enter your information. Clicking the link or an attachment may also download malware (malicious software) like spyware, keyloggers and more onto your device, potentially allowing criminals to steal what they want from your device.
Spyware secretly monitors your activity and collects information such as passwords, banking details, and CRA login credentials. A keylogger is a type of spyware that records everything you type as you type it. Think about it. If this has been secretly downloaded onto your computer, they are capturing every key you touch, and in what order.
HOW AI AND TECHNOLOGY HELP SCAMMERS
You can’t trust your call display. Fraudsters can use “spoofing” technology to manipulate caller ID, so your phone displays any name or number they want. When they call you the caller ID could say “Canada Revenue Agency”, “police” or appear as a local well known
How to Protect Yourself
• Remember the CRA and government agencies will not pressure you. Canada Revenue Agency does not threaten arrest, demand immediate payment, or pressure you to act now.
• Know how the CRA contacts Canadians. CRA usually contacts you by mail or with a message inside your My CRA online account. You will never be asked to pay in gift cards, cryptocurrency or by e-transfer.
• Never click links in unexpected messages. Watch for wording like “You have a refund waiting”, “Your account has been flagged” or “Click here to confirm your information”
• Protect your Social Insurance Number. (SIN) It is the key to your identity. Scammers use it to steal refunds or file fraudulent returns.
• Be wary of refunds that seem too good to be true
• File early to reduce risk. This reduces the time for identity thieves to file fraudulently on your behalf.
• Protect your My CRA Account. Use strong, long and unique passwords.
• Beware of unsolicited help with taxes.
• Trust your instincts and slow down.
Alberta phone number. They hope by doing this you will be more likely to answer the phone, and believe you are talking to that legitimate and trusted agency.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also supercharging scams and giving fraudsters an edge. Scammers now use AI tools to generate emails and texts that mimic the tone, grammar, and structure of official government communications.
AI also helps scammers quickly gather and analyze information from social media, public records, and data breaches. It then helps fraudsters draft targeted messages that are specifically designed for your location, age group and more. The more specific and personalized the message feels, the more likely you are to believe it.
This technology also allows scammers to write and send those convincing messages more quickly. They can test different email, text and phone scripts and then analyze which ones are the most successful in what areas and adjust
accordingly. AI also can swiftly design convincing fake tax related websites pretending to be Canada Revenue Agency, well known accounting firms or other tax preparer agencies. If you log in and enter your personal or financial information you will be giving straight to the fraudsters and may not realize until it’s too late.
No one enjoys completing tax documents. Many people go online searching for help with their tax filings. This can make them an easy target if they stumble onto a fake website.
Fraudsters take advantage of vulnerabilities. They may offer a great deal on tax filing, or create an ad or post that focuses in detail on helping people who struggle with their taxes. In some cases, they may actually complete your taxes for you, but the refund goes directly into their pocket. And now they have all your information as well, and identity theft can be a big concern.
JULIE MATTHEWS
Julie Matthews provides dynamic fraud prevention presentations across Western Canada to seniors, businesses and communities. Before starting her own business, Julie was an Investigative TV reporter for 19 years and an investigator with the Government of Alberta’s Consumer Investigations Unit. She is a certified fraud examiner and has the popular weekly segment “Scam Alert” on 840 CFCW radio. For more information or to book Julie, visit her website www. juliematthews.ca
“You can’t trust your call display — fraudsters can make it say anything they want.”
Spring Cleaning Your Legal Life: Essential Documents Every Albertan Over 55 Should Review
By Christine Savoy
When most of us think about spring cleaning, we picture sorting closets, clearing out the garage, or finally dealing with that pile of papers on the kitchen counter. But there is another kind of spring cleaning that is just as important and often forgotten. Your legal documents.
If you are over 55 (or younger), taking time to review a few key documents can make a big difference later, both for you and for the people you care about.
YOUR WILL: SET IT AND FORGET IT? NOT QUITE
A lot of people have a will tucked away somewhere and feel relieved knowing it is done. The problem is that life does not stay the same.
Families grow, relationships change, assets shift, and sometimes the people you named years ago are no longer the right fit. An executor may have moved away, or a beneficiary may no longer be someone you would choose today.
A good rule of thumb is to review your will every 5-10 years or any time something significant changes in your life. A quick review now can prevent confusion and frustration later.
ENDURING
POWER OF ATTORNEY: WHO WOULD STEP IN FOR YOU?
An enduring power of attorney allows someone you trust to handle your financial matters if you are unable to. This might include paying bills, managing bank accounts, or dealing with property.
Many people name someone once and never look at the document again. It is worth asking yourself whether
that person is still the best choice and whether they understand what the role involves.
If you do not have an enduring power of attorney in place, your family may need to go through the court system to manage things for you. That is not something anyone wants to deal with during an already stressful time.
PERSONAL DIRECTIVES: MAKING YOUR WISHES CLEAR
A personal directive covers personal and health care decisions if you cannot make them yourself. This includes things like medical care, living arrangements, and daily support.
People often assume that their family will just know what they want. While that may be true in general, tough decisions can be much harder without clear guidance. A legal personal directive gives your loved ones the confidence that they are honouring your wishes. It is also important to make sure the person you named is still someone you trust and is willing and able to take on that responsibility.
THE COMMON TRAP OF “I ALREADY DID THAT”
One of the biggest issues I see is people assuming their documents are fine simply because they exist. Documents can become outdated, no longer reflect your wishes, or be missing important details. Another common problem is that no one knows where the documents are or how to access them. Reviewing them gives you a chance to get organized and make sure the right people know what is in place. If you have lost your documents, now is a good time to redo them and make sure they are in place for the future.
A LITTLE EFFORT NOW GOES A LONG WAY
Reviewing your legal documents is not about expecting something bad to happen. It is about making things easier if life throws a curveball.
Clear, up-to-date documents reduce stress, avoid misunderstandings, and give your loved ones the gift of clarity when they need it most. Think of it as spring cleaning for peace of mind.
If you have not looked at these documents in a while, now is a great time to dust them off and make sure they still work for you.
CHRISTINE SAVOY
Christine Savoy is a seasoned legal professional and entrepreneur with over three decades of experience in family law, divorce, and wills and estates. Raised on a farm in rural central Alberta, Christine brings a strong work ethic and a deep sense of community to her practice. After graduating from Red Deer College in 1993, she began her career as a legal assistant in Red Deer, working with a sole practitioner. Over the next 20 years, she advanced her career in Calgary and Edmonton, adapting to evolving technologies and contributing to leading law firms specializing in family law and estate planning.
Christine holds the designation of Alberta Registered Paralegal with the Alberta Association of Professional Paralegals and earned her Legal Coaching designation in 2022, reflecting her commitment to empowering individuals with practical, accessible guidance. To be able to better assist Executors, she recently obtained her Certified Executor Advisor designation, further expanding her ability to support families through complex transitions with clarity and care.
SMART RETIREMENT PLANNING
Your retirement years should feel secure and empowered. With a free Financial Needs Analysis, I’ll walk you through your long-term investment options, income strategies, and protection plans—including mutual funds and life insurance—so you can make decisions with confidence and peace of mind.
DEALER SERVICES PROVIDED BY PFSL INVESTMENTS CANADA LTD. INSURANCE AND SEGREGATED FUNDS OFFERED BY PRIMERICA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF CANADA, DISTRIBUTED BY PRIMERICA CANADA.
