#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench (Schlegel Villages)

Episode #6 | 94-year-old Hank Floyd has NO REGRETS, had a great, successful life & career.  Started working at a young age, worked his way up, changed companies and careers a number of times. Joined the Royal Canadian Navy at the age of 17 and served in WWII.  Hear about his management philosophy, his wisdom, and his advice for people who are entering the workforce.

"You don't have to be brilliant to be wise."

Hank is joined by our hosts Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington virtually from The Village of Taunton Mills in Whitby to share his wisdom from the green bench.

"We learn a lot by listening to people."

*Announcing that our podcast has been renewed for 2021 - that's 26 more episodes full of wisdom for you to listen to throughout the year.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favourite network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #34 - The seeds for Pam Wiebe's work in nursing and quality improvement in long-term care were planted at her grandfather's feet.  She shares her story of changing careers, the joy of being a great-grandparent, and the feeling of family as a team member at Schlegel Villages. 

"There's nothing like being a grandparent" - Doug Robinson

"I try not to think about getting old and I certainly don't think old." - Pam Wiebe

Formerly an accountant, at the age of 46 changed lanes to focus on nursing.  This came from a tragic situation with her mom passing away.  She made the decision, worked and studied hard, and became a nurse in 1999.

Pam supports 10 of the Schlegel Villages as a Quality Improvement Specialist.  In her role, she supports the variety of programs to meet the ministry's regulations. How do we mitigate risk and still honour resident choice giving residents a quality of life they deserve?

Prior to nursing at Schlegel Villages she worked with Toronto Rehab and talks about a Preceptorship program she was involved in: ASK ME (Attributes Skills & Knowledge for Maximizing Excellence)

Hear about Pam's early influences that pointed her down this path as she shares memories of her grandfather and the #ElderWisdom he and his friends offered her as a young girl.

A message to those looking at a career in long-term care, "Be brave to take that step to work in long-term care and don't give in to ridicule." - Pam Wiebe

"It's never too late to find your passion" - Erin Davis

Pope Francis was a bouncer and janitor for a nightclub Julia Child didn't write her first cook book until she was 50 Grandma Moses started her painting career at 78

"It's never too late to re-write your ending." - Erin Davis

Working or living in a Schlegel Village is being part of a family. Bill, Pam's husband also feels as part of the Schlegel Family and she talks about the strong connections that are made within the organization.

Schlegel Villages Team Member Aspiration

CULTIVATE THE ULTIMATE TEAM MEMBER EXPERIENCE

At Schlegel Villages, we have an amazing culture that stellar team members want to be a part of. We care about our team members as much as we care about our residents. As one family, we learn, grow, and move forward together. We are passionate and find fulfillment in making a difference in people’s lives. Our caring community honours and encourages well-being, and team members are appreciated in personally meaningful ways. Through mentorship, ongoing support, and education we are empowered to go beyond the status quo, and unleash our full potential.

“You can be you while being a part of our family.”

Learn more about joining our team

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca Episode Published on International Women's Day #IWD2022

Episode #2 | Erin Davis along with co-host Lloyd Hetherington join Sally Carter on the green bench (virtually) to explore relationships, family, travel, career, and more.  Sally is a resident at The Village of Erin Meadows, a Schlegel Village, in Mississauga, Ontario. She shares stories and knowledge gained through her work as an educator in the food industry, her travels, and family relations.

Subscribe for additional episodes on your favourite podcast network and join Erin Davis and Lloyd Hetherington as they explore conversations with seniors in our communities.

Listen and review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify Podcasts

----more----

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

The green bench is a symbol of the untapped wisdom in our communities.  We should all stop to listen, learn, and share #ElderWisdom with older adults around us.

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement and long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced and edited by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #70 - In this exciting episode, Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle are joined by two spirited women in their eighties, who embarked on an incredible 80-day journey around the globe. Sharing laughter, stories, and priceless wisdom, Dr. Sandra Hazelip and Eleanor Hamby prove that age is just a number when it comes to exploring the world.

Listen in as they recount their adventures across seven continents, from piranha fishing in the Amazon to rooftop views of the pyramids in Cairo. Their infectious zest for life will inspire you to embrace curiosity, push your boundaries, and remember that every day is an opportunity for adventure—no matter your age.

Through tales of spontaneous decisions, incredible sights, and the kindness of strangers, Sandy and Ellie’s journey is one of connection, positivity, and embracing the unexpected. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or simply love stories of adventure, this episode is a testament to the power of friendship, resilience, and living life to the fullest.

• Facebook: Sandy and Ellie
• Instagram: @aroundtheworldat80
• TikTok: @AROUNDTHEWORLDAT80
• YouTube: aroundtheworldat80
• Twitter: @AROUNDTHEWORLDAT80
• Website: aroundtheworldat80.com

What is your Dream Travel Location??

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #7 | A look back, a look ahead, and a look inside with Ron Schlegel. The green bench concept and the Schlegel Villages Wisdom of the Elder signature program come from Ron's message about the importance of tapping into the wisdom around us.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the wisdom of our elders."

What is wisdom? Learn about Ron's father, Wilfred, and the role model he was to him and his grandchildren. Senior Living as a family business and the roles of Ron's children, Jamie, Brad & Rob.

The design concept of Schlegel Villages retirement and long-term care homes in Ontario allows for a social experience and makes for life purpose and enjoyment. Learn a little bit about how this came to be and how the Villages get their names.

"It doesn't matter whether one is 35 or 85, we should be enjoying life to the fullest."

Advice to business leaders, a talk about servant leadership, and research to drive innovation. "It's not what we do, it is what we enable others to do."

Twin mix-up: Hear how Ron MacLean mistook Jamie for Brad during an Olympic Hockey final and more from the Olympics 1992.

"Be yourself, be true to yourself, don't try to be something you are not." - Ron Schlegel

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favourite network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #29 - Dr. Rea Brown shares his story from the green bench of a career nothing short of remarkable, from growing up with a critically ill brother to finding himself in the world of medicine surrounded by pro athletes and on December 6, 1989, in Montreal saving the lives of several women after the École Polytechnique Tragedy (Montreal Massacre). He joins us from his home at The Village of Humber Heights in Etobicoke.

Erin Davis is joined by our guest co-host Doug Reed (Episode # 9) at The Village of Arbour Trails in Guelph while Lloyd takes the rest he needs.

Dr. Brown shares the story about his brother's illness after having pneumonia - learning about a new antibody that was coming available now that the war coming to an end - Penicillin was the drug spoken of which helped him within a week at the Montreal Western Hospital.

"My first successful surgery was on a cob of corn." -Dr. Rea Brown

His education in a one-room school shared stories that encouraged him to read.  What is one book that you remember reading while growing up? 

1954 - Dr. Brown was accepted into McGill University with the goals of getting a degree and playing football.   Drafted by the Tiger-Cats in 1957, but didn't want to play professional football, and decided he wanted to be a doctor.  1958, joined the faculty of medicine students and continued to play football winning the 1960 Churchill Champions.  Graduate in 1962 and applied to a training program for surgery and segued into sports medicine and many accolades and awards.

December 6, 1989 - the day of the massacre at École Polytechnique in Montreal, Dr. Rea Brown was present and available to support as the women came in for care.  In 1991, the Parliament of Canada declared 6 December to be a National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. It is also known as White Ribbon Day.

Doctor for the Montreal Alouettes and shares a couple of stories along with one he recalls with the quarterback, Turner Gill.

Erin Davis asks, 'who was your favourite patient?' Dr. Brown names John Beliveau (Montreal Canadiens from 1950 to 1971) as his favourite patient - hear why at the 24-minute mark

Advice to listeners to have hope: "I HOPE it is going to be better tomorrow." -Dr. Rea Brown

Dr. Brown reflects on funding a residents space on the 18th floor of the Montreal General Hospital called 'The Brown Room'

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #62 - Kathy Buckworth & Evelyn Brindle had the pleasure of sitting down with John Hofstee, a remarkable individual from The Village of Riverside Glen in Guelph with a wealth of wisdom to share.  From tracing his family roots in Holland and beyond to learning and engaging in conversations through Morse code and on the ham radio.

Here are three key takeaways from our conversation with John:

1️⃣ Stay Active and Engaged: John emphasized the importance of getting involved and keeping oneself busy, especially in physical activities. He shared his experience of participating in exercise groups and even leading some of them. By joining organizations that align with our goals and allowing ourselves to learn and contribute, we can maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment throughout our lives.

2️⃣ Embrace Your Hobbies: John's hobbies, including genealogy, ham radio, and learning Morse code, are a testament to the power of pursuing our passions. He traced back his roots and discovered fascinating stories about his family history. So, whether it's exploring your ancestry or diving into a new hobby, don't be afraid to follow your interests and uncover the hidden gems within your own life.

3️⃣ Cherish Family Connections: As Sophocles once said, "sons are the anchors of a mother's life." John beautifully highlighted the significance of family connections and the wisdom passed down through generations. He encouraged us to listen to our parents and grandparents, as their stories and advice will resonate with us in the future. Family ties are precious, and they can provide us with a sense of identity and belonging.

I hope you find these takeaways as inspiring as we did! ✨ If you haven't already, be sure to listen to the full episode to hear John's incredible stories and insights firsthand. 

And remember, we love hearing from our listeners! Share your own words of wisdom on social media using the hashtag #ElderWisdom. Your contributions will not only inspire others but also help them discover our podcast on this green bench. 🌱

Lastly, don't forget to check out the #ElderWisdom Pledge Against Ageism at elderwisdom.ca. By signing it, you can join us in our mission to promote inclusivity and respect for all generations. 🤝

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #53 - The story of Diane Dupuy and the Famous People Players, a black light theatre company where all the performers are developmentally disabled. The podcast explores the bond between Diane and her mother, Mary Thornton, who lived to the age of 103 in The Village of Humber Heights, and the wisdom and working relationship they shared for 50 years. Have a listen as hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome Diane Dupuy to share her Story from the Green Bench.

Diane's mother honed in on what she could do and what she was good at rather than what she struggled with.  She excelled in imagination and creativity. 

"My mother built me a puppet theatre when I was a little girl. She told me not to be afraid as the puppets will do the talking for me." - Diane Dupuy

She enjoyed performing closely with her friend at local events, Doug Henning, who went on to become a world-renowned magician.

"As long as your imagination makes the world a better place." - Mary Thornton

"Great spirits always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds." -Albert Einstein

In creating the Famous People Players Diane chose the black light technique as no one would see the players, and who they are, so they won't be afraid of them. 

"My mother was my partner, my supporter all the way." -Diane Dupuy

Visit famouspeopleplayers.com to see photos, get tickets, and learn more. Follow on Instagram & Facebook

With the support from Humber Heights resident, Freida Griffiths, educational programs were created as part of the Famous People Players organization. 

"There is so much magic in black light, everything floats, everything defies gravity before your eyes. It’s a live cartoon on stage." - Diane Dupuy

Diane & Mary are recipients of the Order of Canada and many awards and recognitions in their 49 years of work.

Diane and Evelyn share the experience of having fighting cancer.  Hear the wisdom from both of them as they encourage others to keep moving forward and living life to the fullest.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #8 - Topics of Dancing with Parkinson's, laughter, humour, spiritual awakenings with a Guru in India, and romance.

The spirit and the spark, call her Dee 'Precious' as we hear her story on 'Dancing with Parkinson's', an improvement on balance and gait by using music throughout the day. "Whatever it is, the body has to keep moving no matter what." - Dee Preikschas 

The importance of laughter for Dee and how to help others smile and laugh together.

Dee meets a spiritual leader, a Guru, and travels through  India and learns to meditate with him.  

"you need those quiet times, to look deep within.  You need to sense the values and listen very carefully to what the spirit is giving to you." - Lloyd Hetherington

Being a nurse, she has helped bring humour to her work and her colleagues. Using dark humour, but be careful as "humour can build bridges, but it can also destroy bridges."

Creating an online profile allowed Dee to meed her husband Dave.  Both dealing with their own challenges, they continue to love and support each other at The Village at University Gates in Waterloo.  "It's for the long haul, the good, the bad, the ugly. A good caring relationship makes all the difference in the world."

"Even before you get out of bed, decide it is going to be a good day." - Dee Preikschas 

Let's all have a 'Perky Parky Person Party wearing Purple with Dee Preikschas'!

*Honouring our guest from Episode #4, Louise Jolliffe, who passed away earlier this year. Click to listen.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #33 - Corrine Richard shares her stories from the green bench with Erin Davis & co-host Doug Robinson from her home at Coleman Care Centre in Barrie.  We hear of growing up in Callandar, Ontario, meeting the Dionne Quintuplets at the age of nine, and stories of family relations and working the summer carnival in Wasaga Beach.

"It was a crazy proposal, and it was right up my alley." - Corrine Richard

In Wasaga Beach at the age of 20 was quite happy working with the carnival and tried traveling with them as well all while raising her son, Chris.  Corrine met her future husband, Leo, during her first summer at the carnival.  

"I've been married 62 years, and did 4 years of courting at the carnival every year.  Strolling around the carnival holding hands." -Doug Robinson

"Just do your own thing and keep yourself safe." - Corrine Richard

Co-host Doug Robinson is a resident of The Village of Sandalwood Park long-term care in Brampton.  Doug was our first guest on the podcast in October 2020 (Listen Here)

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #42 - Deep diving into some fascinating waters with Virginia Barry to talk about sorority and sisterhood, the importance of safety on the water, and her competitive spirit.  From The Village of Wentworth Heights in Hamilton, our first debutante on the green bench and a life-long member of a worldwide sorority, Beta Sigma Phi.

Joining Beta Sigma Phi at the age of 18 in 1952, she loves the sisterhood where she learned about formal table settings, formal greetings, banquets, volunteering and more. Her Toronto Chapter (Beta Omicron) worked with Sick Kids Hospital. She used to go for weekend retreats with her sorority sisters. She named the annual ball, The Yellow Rose Ball. A yellow rose is special, it is what you gift someone who is special in your life.

A Debutante is an upper-class young woman making her first appearance in fashionable society.  Learning dances such as the Waltz, Foxtrot, Quick Step and more prior to attended the ball at the Royal York in Toronto.  She is very proud.

A swimming champ Virginia retired in 1991 from work, and decided to take up swimming at the local pool. There she saw a man who was always swimming lengths, Virginia decided that she would keep up with him. She was counting on this stranger to keep her going… it worked! In 1997, while in Florida she joined a swim team called the Silver Streaks. They were competitive and she ended up at the Huntsman Senior Games – it is like the Olympics for Seniors. There were 4,000 participants and she won a gold and six bronze medals. 

"Competition in swimming, badminton, tennis, volleyball and canoeing was for my own enjoyment." - Virginia Barry

"The best kind of sport is when you are competing against yourself for your personal best." -Erin Davis

Basic Canoe Skills can be found at Paddle Canada, a community of trusted leaders whose aim is to connect Canadians to nature through canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding with certified Paddle Canada instructors. https://www.paddlecanada.com/

Virginia gave her father's canoe to the museum, it is on display in Gravenhurst.

On the Red Current River in Missouri, she was tossed out of the canoe in the rapids. The near-death experience did not stop her from getting in a canoe again.

"I've had a lot of wise seniors in my life, and it continues. How blessed I am." - Erin Davis

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #32 - Erin Davis brings us this very special season-ending edition of #ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench.

"In more than 30 episodes, we have hit milestones, grown bigger, gone deeper than any one of us could have imagined back when Ron Schlegel gave his blessing to this idea of amplifying the voices and tapping the wisdom of those most cherished among us, our seniors." - Erin Davis

"The position of co-host has the experience of a lifetime for me. I've grown in many many ways, with friendships, knowledge and a new lease on life." -Lloyd Hetherington

"My favourite part of the podcast is being able to put my headset on and go for a walk with my dad." - Denise Hutchinson

Hear about Erin's favourite episode: #18 with Patricia & Dennis Bayley from The Village of Taunton Mills.

Lloyd shares an episode that resonates with him, it was the story with Sheri Noecker from The Village at University Gates on Episode #27.

What podcast guest's story has resonated with you?  Share with us on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag or through our website contact form at elderwisdom.ca

Messages of gratitude for the wisdom and stories shared on these podcasts brought to you by Schlegel Villages team members, podcast production team, and some online reviews.

We love to hear from you whether it is through our social media channels, our website elderwisdom.ca, or in podcast reviews on Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, or the Goodpods App. 

We captured some words of wisdom from Centenarians living at Schlegel Villages. Marie Rosa is 106 years old living at The Village of Humber Heights in Etobicoke with her little sister Virginia who is 100.  The question asked is 'What advice or words of wisdom would you give your 20-year-old self?'

104-year-old Bessie shares her words of wisdom from The Village of Taunton Mills in Whitby, "Sing more".

Our gratitude: *Lloyd Hetherington *The Village Team Members *Rob Whitehead *Ted Hudson *Memory Tree Productions team, Peter Shannon, Melinda Wilson, Karen Kocher *Our listeners from around the world and a big thank you to our host, Erin Davis

From all of us at Schlegel Villages and the podcast team, we thank Lloyd Hetherington for his wisdom, stories, and engagement on the green bench.  He will be stepping back from the co-host role and will continue to be involved in different ways with the #ElderWisdom campaign. 

We will be back in February 2022 with Season 2 and welcoming a new co-host, Doug Robinson, who was our first guest of Season 1 and lives at The Village of Sandalwood Park in Brampton.

"Take the time, relax, unwind your soul and you will find that in every podcast there is a grain of truth just waiting for you to enjoy it and grow with it." -Lloyd Hetherington

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

BONUS - In this podcast episode, hosts Kathy Buckworth & Evelyn Brindle introduce Heather Luth, the dementia specialist for Schlegel Villages. They discuss the philosophy and program known as "living in my today," as well as Heather's background and journey to her current position.

Heather shares her experience working with older adults and her passion for creating meaningful connections between different generations. She talks about a program she initiated called "Grand Friends," where a local school partners with their retirement home to engage in activities together. Heather also mentions using a puppet named Grandpa Ernie to help children feel comfortable when visiting the seniors.

The hosts and Heather emphasize the importance of intergenerational interactions and how they can enhance the lives of both older adults and younger individuals. They discuss the positive impact of the "Grand Friends" program and the ongoing friendship between the retirement home residents and the grade one class.

We explores the five pillars of the "Living in My Today" program. The first pillar emphasizes supportive approaches to care, recognizing residents as unique individuals with their own strengths and perspectives. The program teaches people how to connect with their loved ones living with dementia and create partnership moments that allow them to remain active in their care.

The second pillar focuses on empowered care partners, acknowledging the importance of family members, team members, volunteers, students, and residents in supporting people living with dementia. The program provides education and opportunities for connection and collaboration to empower these care partners.

The third pillar, thoughtful design, centers around creating an environment that is supportive and accommodating for individuals living with dementia. This includes considering factors such as layout, lighting, and sensory stimulation to enhance the overall experience and well-being of residents.

The fourth pillar, expressive creativity, encourages and celebrates various ways that people can express their creativity. This pillar is described as a fun part of the program, where individuals can engage in different creative activities and express themselves.

Lastly, the fifth pillar, education, is briefly mentioned in the transcript. Although not discussed in detail, it can be inferred that this pillar provides educational resources and information to support individuals and care partners in understanding dementia and its impact on daily life.

Overall, the "Living in My Today" program aims to provide a holistic approach to care for individuals living with dementia, focusing on understanding, empowerment, thoughtful design, creativity, and education.

Learn more about the Living in My Today signature program at https://schlegelvillages.com/signature/living-my-today

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #28 - Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington welcome the CEO for the Ontario Long-Term Care Association, Donna Duncan to the green bench.  A passionate conversation about what aged care is, building community, combatting ageism, and reimagining what long-term care can be in the future.

Donna first experienced long-term care in the 1980s with her grandmother and then again with her father living with alzheimers in 1999.  She brings a personal view to what it is and what it can be as we look at some of today's challenges in front of us:

• Staffing challenges
• Older buildings
• Higher care needs

"We dream of a day that it is okay to go into long-term care, where people aren't frightened, families don't feel guilty, staff take great pride, and they are physical living environments where people want to be." -Donna Duncan

"Let's reimagine it (long-term care), let's rebuild it and rethink it with residents, families and staff. Anything is possible, especially if we work together." -Donna Duncan

What is a home with dignity and what is a care environment?

The pandemic has brought Mental Illness and Long-term Care to the forefront, two topics that Donna has a passion to work with.

"Aging is visible and I think it's time we take pride in the aging process and that we don't isolate people as we age." -Donna Duncan

"Honesty, integrity, genuine interest in people - we've got to bring these to the forefront and take the lead in sharing these concepts." -Lloyd Hetherington

"There has to be so much more WE in this and less compartmentalizing in the whole demographic picture." -Erin Davis

What does a community model look like for long-term care?

"You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream." -C.S. Lewis

Have a listen to this podcast by OLTCA

Coming of Age: Meeting the needs of our ageing population

The pandemic was driving many stories of darkness coming out of long-term care, rather than focussing on the people and their stories.

The podcast anchors us in hope and broadens the conversation of what aged care is and what it can be.  Conversations with like minded individuals to build a movement.

"Fear of dying is human, but fear of aging is cultural." -Ashton Applewhite

"We are in it together. We have a message to get out and the more voices we can find, the better is it." -Lloyd Hetherington

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #13 - Hosts Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington share virtual travels with Ruth White from The Village of Arbour Trails in Guelph. This Canada Day marks her 80th Birthday and she is thrilled to share her adventures across this country in her stories from the green bench.

"It never hurts to learn new things, does it?" Ruth has a spirit of trying new things and is happy to be adding this podcast to her list.

Before being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, she was always ready for an adventure.  She shares some of her favourite travel memories.

Finding a job in Campbell River, north of Vancouver Island where she learned to waterski, fish for salmon, make a fire using driftwood, and creating art.

• Fort Qu'Appelle, Saskatchewan
• Lake Louise, Alberta
• Golden, British Columbia

Where are your favourite places to visit in Canada?

We would love to see your photos and read your stories on social media - tag #ElderWisdom in your posts.

Hear about Ruth's drive across Canada with her sister - North of lake superior, a rough road driving a 1962 Chevy II, we made it through ok.  "Highway 17 can be a lonely stretch of road." -Lloyd

Ruth's mother had multiple pregnancies including quadruplets, two sets of identicle twins.  Stories of growing up in a family with multiple births and multiple loss.  

"Appreciate the time that is given to you." - Ruth White

Pack your virtual bags and visit Bermuda with Ruth. She heard about a job and ended up working and living there for a little over 40 years. Price Waterhouse Coopers, Gulf Oil/Chevron, Office Supplies, Aberfeldy plant nurseries.  Aunt D's son Captain White got Ruth into sailing the waters around Bermuda.  Eight miles north of Bermuda, Ruth learned to snorkel in the coral reef.

"Listen to your heart.  Be aware of others that can help your situation." -Ruth White

"Be encouraged to think beyond the box." - Ruth White

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #5 | Ageism is stereotyping and/or discrimination against individuals or groups on the basis of their age. Ageism dictates that at a certain age you have to act a certain way.  We need to work together to eliminate ageism - starting with education, informing people with alternatives, and creating an environment where you value people and their contributions.  Hosts Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington welcome Barry Hickling from The Village of Aspen Lake in Windsor for a conversation about ageism on the green bench.

Barry is a Delegate Member of the Ontario Association of Residents' Councils (OARC).  Their values include: Compassion, Dignity, Inclusion, & Collaboration | Learn more at ontarc.com

Help up break down #ageism by signing the #ElderWisdom pledge at elderwisdom.ca; "I pledge to restore to a place of reverence the elders of our society, honouring the wisdom our oldest citizens have gained through lifetimes of trials, tribulations, joys and successes. I further vow to end ageism, once and for all counting this unjust form of prejudice unacceptable."

"Hope is the greatest encouragement we can give to one another" -Barry Hickling

"Caring and compassion are what it's all about. Don't put a label on it." - Lloyd Hetherington

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favourite network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #37 - Reta Baechler is the first centenarian guest to join Erin Davis and Doug Robinson on the green bench-as she shares her many years of wisdom and wit with us.  Aunt Reta as we know her is the Aunt to Ron Schlegel who you heard from in episode 7.

A Prestigious Club: The number of centenarians in Canada rose to 12, 822 as of July 1st, 2021.

Aunt Reta is the sister to Wilfred Schlegel who is the father of Ron Schlegel.  Five siblings with 3 older brothers and one younger brother and one younger sister, grew up on the farm outside Tavistock, Ontario.  

"Every Saturday morning we had to trim the wicks to make sure they would burn evenly." - Reta Baechler

A large German presence in Southwestern Ontario - Aunt Reta talks about growing together as a community, speaking Pennsylvanian German and learning English.  Growing to know each other.

"I felt so good being at home and having my neighbours around me so there was never a barrier.  We were all like one people." - Reta Baechler

Reta shares stories of her family connections with her father Wilfred and with her Grandmother.

Jump rope:  Aunt Reta loved skipping when she was young. Her brothers made her jump ropes, and she fondly remembers receiving her very first store bought skipping rope. It had wooden handles, and she would skip her way to the barn to do chores, and then all the way home again. 

What was the invention that made your life easier?  Reta shares about the light switch being a fantastic invention with electricity.  "I remember when we turned on the light tap for the first time. This is so incredible, all we have to do it push a button and the light will come on." - Reta Baechler

A tradition of always having an extra plate set at the dinner table for a guest to join.  Reta remembers a plaque over the table that read “Christ is the head of this home, the unseen guest at every meal, the silent listener to every conversation.” Very important to her, and can picture it to this day. She says it is so important to have faith. 

“Well, I woke up again in the same bed I went to sleep in last night. There must still be a plan and a purpose for me today.”  - Reta Baechler

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift- that’s why we call it the present.” – Alice Morse Earle

BAECHLER, Reta Barbara, 100, of Stratford passed away peacefully with family by her side at Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth on Thursday, 27, 2022. 

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #59 - In this episode, Barbara Sackett from The Village of Wentworth Heights in Hamilton shares her wisdom and experiences that are sure to leave you inspired and motivated. Here are three takeaways from her conversation on the Green Bench with hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle.

1️⃣ Confidence is Key: Barbara opens up about her personal journey of building confidence throughout her life. She emphasizes the importance of believing in yourself and taking steps to nurture your self-assurance. Barbara's story is a powerful reminder that confidence can be developed and grown over time. So, let's all take a page from Barbara's book and embrace our own confidence!

2️⃣ Kindness Goes a Long Way: One of the key lessons Barbara shares is the impact of kindness in our interactions with others. She believes that a kind word, expression, or compliment can make a significant difference in someone's day. Let's all strive to spread kindness and uplift those around us. Remember, even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound effect on others.

3️⃣ Attitude is Everything: Barbara's motto, "half of the success in life is attitude," resonates deeply. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and how it can influence our daily lives. Barbara's personal experience demonstrates that having the right attitude can help overcome challenges and achieve goals. So, let's embrace a positive mindset and approach each day with determination and optimism.

We are truly grateful for the opportunity to have had Barbara as a guest on our podcast. Her wisdom, experiences, and positive energy are truly inspiring. I encourage you all to listen to this episode and soak in the valuable insights she shares.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #73 - Kathy Buckworth along with co-host, Evelyn Brindle dive into the life and wisdom of Donna Harrison, a resident of The Village of Sandalwood Park in Brampton.

Donna's story is a heartwarming journey through her early years in Port Credit, where she met her beloved husband, George, and started a family at a young age. She fondly recalls their life together, George's career with Pepsi Cola, and the strong family ties that have been a cornerstone of her happiness. Donna's narrative is filled with touching anecdotes, from meeting George on the lakeshore to their shared love for the casino game Blazing Sevens.

Throughout the episode, Donna's positivity and resilience shine through, even as she recounts the challenges of losing loved ones and adapting to life changes, such as moving to Sandalwood Park. Her stories of family gatherings, especially around the Sunday roast and Christmas, highlight the importance of family traditions and togetherness.

Donna also shares her experiences at Sandalwood Park, where she has found a supportive and loving community. She participates in various activities like word games and bingo, and has formed meaningful friendships, particularly with a fellow resident named Mary.

One of the key takeaways from the conversation with Donna is her unwavering belief in kindness. She attributes her positive outlook and the kindness she receives to the kindness she extends to others. Her simple yet profound advice to "just be kind" resonates deeply and serves as a guiding principle for living a fulfilling life.

We reflect on the wisdom Donna has imparted and the joy she finds in her family and community. We encourage our listeners to embrace kindness and cherish the moments with their loved ones.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #66 - Hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle delve into the pervasive issue of ageism with renowned author and activist Ashton Applewhite. The discussion opens with personal anecdotes from Kathy and Evelyn, who share their experiences of ageism in professional and personal settings, highlighting its subtle yet impactful presence in everyday interactions, especially in the workplace and healthcare.

Ashton Applewhite, known for her advocacy and extensive work on ageism, defines it as discrimination and stereotyping based on a person's age. She emphasizes that ageism is a two-way street, affecting both the young and the old, and discusses the internalized biases that we may unknowingly harbor. Ashton's insights extend to the broader societal impacts, including the economic implications of ageism, which costs billions annually in healthcare alone due to inadequate care and forced early retirement.

The conversation also touches on practical steps individuals and communities can take to combat ageism. Ashton encourages starting small, by reevaluating our own perceptions of aging and challenging ageist remarks in our circles. A discussion on the #ElderWisdom Pledge and the symbolic Green Bench initiative, which fosters intergenerational conversations and respects the wisdom of older adults.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own biases and take active steps towards creating a more inclusive society that values individuals at every stage of life. 

This episode not only sheds light on the nuances of ageism but also inspires a collective movement towards a world where age is celebrated and valued, rather than used as a criterion for exclusion.

Learn more about Ashton at https://thischairrocks.com/

Find resources, campaigns, tools and more at https://oldschool.info/ 

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #50 - Harold Quinn, a resident at The Village of Arbour Trails in Guelph, joins Erin Davis & Doug Robinson to share his story from the Green Bench.  As a person who loves to bring people together, we chat about the importance of community, wisdom, and sharing of stories.

Speaking of the Peer Learning group, an activity group at The Village by the Arboretum community.  Harold was a facilitator, featuring talks from those who live in the community.  

Currently watching a course called, 'The Worlds Greatest Geological Wonders' with her peers in a program created to learn together.

“I lived 64 years without a computer, now I can’t live without one” - Harold Quinn

Book and Author recommendations given in this conversation on the green bench as all three enjoy reading.  We would love to hear your recommendations, and encourage you to share with us on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag.

Not only an avid reader, Harold has written a memoir for his grandchildren.  An idea that came to him as he reflects on not knowing his parents and grandparents stories. 

The recreation department at The Village of Arbour Trails does a phenomenal job, there is almost no day in the week where something isn't happening.  "There are two types of residents: those who wait to be entertained, and those who make their own entertainment and make things happen."  Noticing there was a vacancy on Saturday evening, he bagan the Saturday Night Comedy Hour featuring Carol Burnett, Bob Hope, Red Skelton, Wayne & Shuster, Dean Martin Roasts and more.

"Life without laughs is not life." - Harold Quinn

Doug shares a story about dancing with Carol Burnett during Elizabeth Taylors 50th Birthday party.

"For us now, this is home.  When we come home, we come back to Arbour Trails." - Harold Quinn

"Quality of life revolves around still being able to participate in things of interest to you." - Harold Quinn

Thanks for listening to our golden 50th episode of #ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench, we will be back soon with season 5.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #27 - A sudden stroke caused Sheri Noecker to move into The Village at University Gates long-term care in Waterloo. While not being able to move, she was inspired by her friends and the team at the village to build an exercise plan and work with the Program for Active Living team in her determination to move again as she use to.  Hear this inspiring and motivational story as Sheri sits on the green bench with hosts Erin Davis and Lloyd Hetherington.

Sheri shares about her life when she experienced a stroke at the age of 51, the wake-up call that motivated her to get better. Although she is unable to remember all the details of the time she shares as others have told her.

Today, she is committed to doing exercise every morning.  Inspired by her nephew who experienced a tragic accident at the age of 18 and worked to be able to walk again.

"You say you are going to be a motivational speaker, but I want to correct you.  You are a motivational speaker now." -Lloyd Hetherington to Sheri Noecker

Sharing supports  she receives from participating in Chair Exercises with Caroline Jordon & Paul Eugene on YouTube

The goal of the Michael T. Sharratt Program for Active Living (PAL) is to improve our residents' life quality and maximize independence through individualized exercise programming and a more active lifestyle. Learn more.  Sheri is one of many who receives the support from Kinesiologists, exercise therapists, physiotherapists and more.

"The Program for Active Living team has helped me in so many different ways.  Coming to the Village as a full hoyer lift and after two years, I am able to stand without supports." -Sheri Noecker

"I did not really care about myself before. Learning what happened to me, I am now fighting for everything I am doing. I am not a person that gives up on anything, and not giving up on myself either." -Sheri Noecker

One day, when Sheri is recovered, she plans to go out to be a motivational speaker and supporter.  She would also like to become a PSW and return back to University Gates to work with the team.  Focusing her life on helping others.

A stroke is a medical emergency. Learn more from Heart & Stroke Canada. F - Face, is it drooping? A - Arms, can you raise both? S - Speech, is it slurred or jumbled? T - Time, to call 9-1-1 right away?

"Blood, sweat and respect.  First two you give, last one you earn." - Dwayne Johnson

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #18 - Patricia & Dennis Bayley live and laugh at The Village of Taunton Mills in Whitby while sharing about their passions of poetry, chemistry, and traveling.  Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington are joined on the green bench for some laughter and storytelling.  

What are you passionate about? What are your hobbies?

Lloyd's hobby is words: a good pun, a game of scrabble, writing ... words, words, words.  His passion is people.

In school, Patricia was not very good at English and Dennis was absolutely terrible at Chemistry - they both grew into those as interests to stick with them their whole life. "If someone says we can't do something, that is when we start doing it." -Dennis Bayley

Patricia's love for poetry began long ago right when she was able to print.  Dennis shares his passion for science/chemistry.

"It's all about connection, especially now more than ever." -Erin Davis

Dennis - a left-handed child was hit over the hand in school every time he used his left hand so he became right-handed.  After 80 years of using the right hand, Dennis shares about an experiment he did while in lockdown with Dr. Porac at Penn State University.  His experiment to draw using his left hand again.  Read the blog post here: https://sites.psu.edu/clarep/category/switching-handedness/

Patricia - Enjoys writing poetry with some rhyming, a theme, a beginning, and an end.  Listen to the poet, Patricia Bayley read her poems: 'Life Cycle', 'Hope'

Another poem was a feature on CTV National News with Lisa Laflamme - You can find this video posted in the Wisdom Bank at elderwisdom.ca

Hear how Dennis supports Patricia with her poetry writing. "It's not only the writing of the poem. It's holding onto your breath while you think, rhubarb, rhubarb, rhubarb, I'll go back and have another bat at it." - Patricia Bayley

Our guests pull out their passports and share some stories from their travels. Holland, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Antarctica, South America, Brazil.  Working in Thailand teaching in 1995 as part of a CESO Project (Canadian Executive Service Organization) as volunteers. 

Dennis spearheaded an exchange program with first-nations students as literacy chair for district 707 Rotary Clubs and also working with the Durham Regional School Board.  Now at The Village of Taunton Mills to involve all the seniors to provide school supplies and warm garments to send to the Schools in the First-Nations communities.

You get an airline ticket to anywhere in the world...where do you choose to go? Patricia - England Dennis - Italy

"I don't believe that vegetables should be put on this earth so I don't eat them." - Dennis Bayley

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #72 - In this enlightening episode, hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle sit down with Lora Bruyn Martin, the Director of Innovation, Improvement, and Research at Schlegel Villages.

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of innovation in senior living and how it enhances the lives of older adults and their caregivers. Lora shares her passion for working with seniors and discusses the importance of grassroots innovation programs like Innovation Catalyst, where frontline team members collaborate to improve care and services.

Discover the role of technology in senior living, including exciting trials like dining service robots and the impact of color contrast on mealtime experiences for residents with dementia. We also delve into the significance of involving family members in care and the wisdom that seniors bring to the innovation process.

Whether you're a caregiver, a family member, or simply interested in the future of senior care, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories.

Learn more about the Innovation Catalyst Program: https://youtu.be/lYK8ppJvQWY

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #10 - Taking a chance for a dance, a career in Nursing, Family Life & parenting with challenges. Judy Stefnitz shares her story of a varied and fascinating life with ups and downs, and she comes through shining.  Joining Erin Davis and Lloyd Hetherington on the green bench from The Village of Tansley Woods in Burlington.

How do you start your day? Share with us on Twitter (@GreenBenchStory) and don't forget to use the #ElderWisdom tag.

Judy starts her day with brain exercises, learning, scrabble, and of course breakfast. She loves life!  Has a plan for every day that is not carved in stone.

A Salute To Nurses: The World Health Assembly has designated 2020 the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife.

Judy shares about her broad nursing career at Sick Kids in Toronto and at Oakville Hospital.

“Nurses dispense Comfort, Compassion & Caring without even a prescription” – Val Saintsbury

Parenting doesn't come without challenges.  Judy, taking care of her children had a number including convulsions, falling off the roof, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, asthma, swellings, rashes, and allergies.  

A move to Montreal to support her husband's career in 1972, after the FLQ crisis. Without being fluent in French, Judy could not work as a nurse in Montreal. "It's amazing how life works." reading the paper, seeing a notice - 'If family life is important to you, Concordia University is offering a new program' - So she went for it.

Excited to continue learning at 38 and still today at 81.

"Life is the curriculum." Judy Stefnitz

If the opportunity presents itself, Judy responds. Family Life taught to look at all the issues from the womb to tomb.  Her practicum was helping parents to be sex educators - it is as important today as it was then.  Teaching attitudes, values, and respect, etc. 

"Attitude is our greatest power. We control that for ourselves." - Judy Stefnitz

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #21 - Steve Smith joins Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington to share his wisdom on the green bench, and today we're calling it the 'Red Green Bench'. He shares about his fascinating career as Red Green, stories from beyond the show, laughter, retirement, and a goose control project.

With 15 seasons aired on CBC & PBS and reruns continuing to play today, what are your thoughts about a Red Green Reunion show?  "There is a long list of things that will never happen, and it's near the top." -Steve Smith  

"If you don't have a Red Green in your family, it's probably you." -Steve Smith

Advice on aging - A story that has stuck in Steve's mind about Toby Keith and Clint Eastwood and this quote to live by; “I get up every morning and I go out. And I don't let the old man in.” -Clint Eastwood

Duct Tape. "Fixing it with duct tape is a glimpse of immortality." - Steve Smith

"Laughter is good medicine and we need all we can get of it." - Lloyd Hetherington

"When you are out of laughter, you are out of hope." -Steve Smith

Hear Steve's answer to this question: Would you rather be handy or humourous?

The experience of listening to stories and comedy on the radio was encouraged at a young age.  Have you heard about his Possom Lodge Podcast?  A scripted half-hour with all the characters you love. Find it here: https://www.patreon.com/possumlodge 

Career Advice from Steve Smith; 1. It has to be mostly enjoyable 2. It has to be a worthy challenge 3. You have to have a reasonable expectation of success 4. It has to be good for people, not just you

Learn about his latest project: Canada Goose Control - A Goose Repellent Laser (https://www.gc1goosecontrol.com/)

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #45 - A pleasure to have Shirley Arthur from The Village of Tansley Woods Long Term Care in Burlington join Erin & Doug on the Green Bench to share her #ElderWisdom about public speaking, being in the Salvation Army, and the role of a grandmother.

At the age of 14, Shirley joined the Salvation Army in Montreal.  Public Speaking came easy for her, speaks freely from the cuff.  Singing as part of a Trio all over her community

"You can't beat love." - Doug Robinson

Shirley shares about being a hands-on grandma to 5 grandchildren.

"I taught my grandchildren many many things, from the birds and the bees and the flowers and the trees." - Shirley Arthur

"There is no other great love than the love of a grandma." - Shirley Arthur

An honest conversation on the difference between a grandma and a great-grandma.

Shirley was a Girl Guide Captain for 17 years with a favourite camping grounds at a lake in the Laurentians. A great experince in 1943-1952.  A lesson to the Girl Guides to "Always be an example." 

If you had to stand up and speak for 5 minutes on anything, what would your topic be?

Shirley has shared her advice and wisdom with future PSW team members and students.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #14 - Talking dirty in this episode, a conversation about soil.  81-year-old Bruce MacNeil joins us on the green bench in a conversation about his love for horticulture and for being a Volunteer at The Village of Winston Park in Kitchener.

"Come on in and make yourself homely." -Bruce

As we celebrate National Volunteer Week in April, this episode is a way for us to honour those who give of their time as volunteers in whatever they choose to do for their communities.  "Thank you to all volunteers who make their contributions, so selflessly as they make our residences a real habitation of joy." - Lloyd Hetherington

Volunteerism has passed through generations in the MacNeil family as he shares stories of his parents and now his grandchildren.

 "We plant in soil and we play in dirt." -Bruce MacNeil

Do you have a green thumb? (share with us on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag)

Bruce is not only growing a garden but growing friendships and relationships with everyone at the Village.  He uses gardening as a therapy, including storytelling.  He has also involved his grandchildren in his volunteering at The Village teaching them these skills.

When Covid hit, the residents were trying to make Bruce's volunteer work an essential service.  Hear a few messages to Bruce from the residents at The Village of Winston Park.

"You are not just a volunteer, but a friend." -Bruce, resident at Winston Park

There are many volunteer opportunities available in every community.  What are some of the opportunities that you have participated in or are interested in?

A special message from Bruce's granddaughter, Alexandra, about being involved in his volunteer work at Winston Park.  He taught her about compassion, how to converse with someone new, and the importance of storytelling and connections.

*Get your pen and paper out as Bruce shares tips to grow your tomatoes at home

"Thank you to everyone who gives of their time, but more importantly of themselves to make the world a better place." -Erin Davis

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #58 - Hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome social media sensation Bette Reynolds, also known as Granny Reynolds to the Green Bench. Bette shares her journey into the world of social media, which was influenced by her son, Stuart, a.k.a. Brittlestar. With her humor and wisdom, Granny Reynolds has become a favorite among viewers. Tune in to hear Bette's story and enjoy a podcast filled with laughter and insights.

Bette Reynolds Social Media TikTok (@BetteReynolds) Instagram (@grannyreynolds) X (@reynolds_bette) Threads (@grannyreynolds)

Granny Reynolds encourages older individuals to embrace social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, emphasizing the potential for new opportunities and interests. While acknowledging that not everyone may be accepting of this change, she believes that by showing older individuals how to navigate these platforms in the simplest way, it can be a transformative experience. Engaging with social media allows older individuals to break out of their own little bubble and explore a wide range of interesting content and subjects.

She emphasizes that social media is not exclusively for young people, highlighting the valuable knowledge and experiences that older individuals have to offer. They suggest that older individuals should not be afraid to try social media platforms, even if they initially feel like they might be making a fool of themselves. The key is to keep trying and learning until they become comfortable with using these platforms.

Bette shares her personal experience of using social media as a means to connect with her grandchildren. Initially finding her social media postings amusing, the grandchildren now proudly share them with their friends. This highlights the potential for social media to bridge the generational gap and allow older individuals to communicate and connect with younger family members in a meaningful way.

Overall, this episode emphasizes the benefits of encouraging older individuals to use social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. By embracing these platforms, older individuals can open themselves up to new interests, connect with others, and share their own unique perspectives and experiences.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #36 - A conversation that is raw in its emotions, very honest and open with Jack Paleczny of The Village at University Gates in Waterloo. A beautiful example of the connection among us all as he shares his story from the Green Bench.

Jack lives at The Village with and cares for his wife Diana Lynn who lives with both dementia and Parkinson's disease. He lives a life of service first as a leader to his community, serving God, serving the people around him, and today, serving up a whole lot of wisdom and perspective.

The 12s in Jack's life: 12 Years of Education 12 Years of Graduate Studies 12 Years as a Priest 12 Years as a Hospital Chaplain 12 Years as a Pastor of the United Church

His sister is a nun who just returned back from 12 years in Africa.

Learn about the decision Jack made to leave the priesthood and how his mother stood up for him among his 8 siblings.

"The big part of chaplaincy training is that although you are grounded in your own faith, you are able to walk with others in their faith." -Jack Paleczny

"Chaplaincy is a beautiful experience." -Jack Paleczny

"Our higher power is GOOD." - Erin Davis

"The meaning/value of life is the very goodness of people and the desire of people to do good." -Jack Paleczny

When Jack first got to The Village at University Gates, everybody he met he would ask them their name.  "It was important to greet people by name and to hear their stories at The Village at University Gates."

Jack shares his tips to being an effective listener.

"If you can stay with the person and ask a question that unfolds their story a little bit more. They feel a connection, a bond, and trust in sharing their story." -Jack Paleczny

How do you remember people's names?

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #23 - Joining Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington on the green bench is Annie Whittle from The Village of Wentworth Heights in Hamilton. Her story includes a surprising connection with Harry Styles through her passion for Knitting, never allowing boredom to seep in, how to eat a pomegranate along with stories from her childhood.

Erin & Lloyd get you hooked to this episode with some puns as they welcome Annie to the bench. Do you have any knitting puns to share?

Knitting has been found to contribute to the quality of life

Knitting since the age of 4, now at 95 making Harry Styles sweaters for her grandchildren.  Handknitting pieces for department stories, hats, baby sets, bonnets, etc.

Read the article about Annie knitting Harry Styles' sweater in The Hamiton Spectator

"Just keep busy, whatever you do. Enjoy life." -Annie Whittle

Annie moved to Canada in 1946 from England with her husband.  Met him while reboring an engine, full of grease and overalls; a bit of a mess. 

She has the gift of making people feel special.  Annie is an unofficial ambassador welcoming new residents into The Village of Wentworth Heights.  "Enjoy things, meet people, and participate." -Annie Whittle

"I haven't played canasta since the 40s. Now I love it and we play twice a week." -Annie Whittle

“The future lies before you, like a field of fallen snow; Be careful how you tread it, for every step will show.” - Doris A. Wright (shared with Annie and her siblings by her mother)

"I'd like a 36 hour day and 10 days a week." -Annie Whittle

Daily Mail Survey - What contributes to longevity? 1. Being stubborn 2. Keeping busy 3. Positive attitude

"Keep ahead of the grim reaper, keep moving, keep busy." -Annie Whittle

"The perfect metaphor for what we are doing with the green bench.  You don't want people to feel lonely, you don't want them to feel like strangers. So come and sit here." -Erin Davis

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #4 | Women in the workplace, loving the work you do, being fired due to pregnancy, making dreams come true & a variety of hobbies including knitting & crocheting are the topics of conversation on the green bench.  Erin Davis and co-host Lloyd Hetherington welcome Louise Jolliffe, a resident at The Village of Aspen Lake in Windsor, to share her stories and wisdom with us.

According to a piece in Bustle, called “11 Old Lady Hobbies it’s OK to Love in Your 20s” there is renewed and growing interest in what the younger generations are calling “lost arts” like knitting, sewing, quilting, gardening, and even old-fashioned games like Bridge and Canasta.

Both Stanley and Louise have passed away, both at 95 years of age, Stanley on December 31, 2020 and Louise on January 2, 2021.

Share with us on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag and let us know what your hobbies are.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favourite network: Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and more.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #44 - A lot of road to cover with 92-year-old, Ivan Siriani, from his love of travel and bucket list plans, family trees, and a chaplain chat that brought some peace to his heart.  Ivan is joined on the #ElderWisdom bench for a conversation with hosts Erin Davis & Doug Robinson.

What is on your bucket list?

"My bucket list included a train trip across Canada, Toronto to Vancouver.  I went with my son and it was the most wonderful holiday I've ever had." - Doug Robinson

Ivan's bucket list includes a trip to Newfoundland with his daughter.  She has always wanted to see icebergs. He also would like to go to visit relatives in British Columbia and Calgary.

Before Ivan's wife moved into long-term care, they enjoyed drives all over in the States and Canada, including a lot of the east coast.

Not a resident yet, but when the new Retirement phase opens at The Village of Glendale Crossing in 2023, Ivan will move in.  He has his suite picked out, a two bedroom complex.  Family has done cut outs of furniture and created the full layout.

"My only wish is that they could move the date up on the opening of The Village of Glendale Crossing." - Ivan Siriani

Wife Marjorie lives in long-term care at Glendale Crossing.  Ivan looks forward to being in the same building and being able to see her more often.  

"I saw her and I asked her for a dance.  I think I had an hour with her as her guy was getting a little upset, and then we were politely asked to leave the premises." - Ivan Siriani

"Everybody's journey with dementia is so different and we've had the honour of people sharing their stories with us." - Erin Davis

"I find tracing my family tree keeps me going and is so refreshing. An interesting hobby that fills my time with enjoyment." - Ivan Siriani

Ivan put a letter with contact details in a bag at a distant relative's headstone in hopes to connecting with family.  He got an email a couple weeks later sharing family information and growing the family tree.

“Some family trees have beautiful leaves, and some have just a bunch of nuts. Remember, it is the nuts that make the tree worth shaking.” – Unknown

"Don't worry if the work is hard and your rewards are few. Remember the mighty oak was once once a nut like you." -Unknown

Learn more about The Village of Glendale Crossing and it's opening in 2023 contact Carole Metron at 519-668-5600 or visit schlegelvillages.com/glendale-crossing-london

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #65 - In this inspiring episode, hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle had the pleasure of speaking with the remarkable Emily Jarratt, who at 99 years old, shared her rich tapestry of life experiences with us.  Emily joins us from The Village of Tansley Woods retirement in Burlington.

Emily, originally from England, moved to Canada in 1952 seeking a better life post-war. She and her husband chose Canada over Australia, a decision that led to a fulfilling life, including raising a family in Vancouver. Emily's journey is a testament to embracing change and the importance of family.

A former medical assistant and later a registered nurse, Emily's passion for learning and helping others shone through as she recounted her career shift at the age of 52. Her dedication to her profession and her ability to adapt to new roles is truly inspiring.

Emily's zest for life extends to her hobbies, which range from woodworking and sewing to playing the ukulele and keyboard. She emphasized the importance of hobbies in combating loneliness and staying mentally active. Her adventurous spirit was evident as she spoke about her travels with the Tansley Trippers and her love for destinations like Bermuda.

Technology plays a significant role in Emily's life, from using a computer for daily tasks to embracing artificial intelligence. She encourages everyone to keep up with the times and to use technology to stay connected with loved ones.

Emily imparted wisdom on living a long and healthy life, stressing the importance of not smoking, moderate drinking, eating right, and staying mentally engaged. Her advice to make younger friends resonates as a way to ensure companionship and shared learning.

Emily's story is a powerful reminder that age is just a number and that it's never too late to learn, explore, and enjoy life. Her anticipation of turning 100 is a celebration of a life well-lived and an encouragement to all of us to embrace every moment.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #35 - An enjoyable conversation about family connectivity, stories from his role as Governor-General, being a grandparent, hockey, and growing up in Northern Ontario. Erin Davis & Doug Robinson are honoured to be joined by The Right Honourable David Johnston, 28th Governor-General of Canada and Chair of the Rideau Hall Foundation on the green bench. 

"Who are you anyway?" In a story from Repulse Bay, during a Terry Fox Run, about a young Inuit lad who approached David with this question.

"The question, 'Who am I?' Permits you to see yourself through the eyes of others." -The Right Honourable David Johnston

Born and raised in Sudbury, Ontario, Davis shares stories about playing hockey with the Esposito Brothers and the aspiration of being a professional hockey player.

Doug asks, are you a Toronto Maple Leafs or Ottawa Senators suppoter? Answer, "Any Canadian team in the finals."

"In Northern Ontario, you learn to skate before you walk." -David Johnston

Married to Sharon in 1964, although more years together as David was her first date in high school when she was 13.  Coming up to their 60th anniversary, they plan to gather the 5 daughters and 14 grandchildren to celebrate as a family.

Honourary Doctorates for more than 25 Universities and learning institutions, law degrees from Cambridge and Queens University, Officer of the Order of Canada and promoted to Companion (the orders highest level).  

Learn about the importance of family connections and human connectivity, something David Johnston & Ron Schlegel have discussed on the #ElderWisdom bench. (Video)

"If the day was a little difficult, you come home, join your family and say all is well." -David Johnston

"All the important things in life I've learned from my children and now my grandchildren." -David Johnston

Hear how David & Sharon received the names: Grandpa Book & Grannie Sunrise

What names do you have for your grandparents or how do your grandchildren call you?  Share with us on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag.

In the USA, citizens are paid to give blood and charged to receive blood.  A great story in Canada, that Canadians give just to look after their neighbours without needing to know where it is going.

"I've changed dramatically 5 times, all to the credit of my daughters." - David Johnston

Erin & Doug have been fined for how they addressed David on this episode and invited to donate to the Rideau Hall Foundation.  Hear more about the work of the foundation and some of the initiatives to create a smarter more caring country.

• Partnership with Mastercard Foundation to fund 10,000 Indigenous young people to become teachers
• Governor General's Innovation Awards
• The Queen Elizabeth Scholars
• Michener Awards to celebrate finalists for public media and journalism
• Roméo LeBlanc - Caring Canadian Awards for Volunteerism/Sovereign's Medal of Volunteerism

The Rideau Hall Foundation is an independent and non-political charitable organization established to mobilize ideas, people, and resources across the country to tap into our national spirit and help realize our shared aspirations. The RHF works closely with the Office of the Governor General and our many partners to connect, honour, and inspire Canadians.

Donations can be made to: https://rhf-frh.ca/donate/

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #48 - Learn about what the Director of Lifestyle Options role is within the Retirement sections at Schlegel Villages as Erin Davis & Doug Robinson welcome Branka Matijevic to the Green Bench.  Branka is a relationship-builder, and community-builder, proud to support green bench conversations, and a fantastic DLO at The Village of Wentworth Heights in Hamilton.

Helping seniors and their families not only to choose the right living environment but to help new residents find community, trust, friendship, and a real sense of belonging.

"No matter what age, there is always a chance for love to bloom." - Erin Davis

As a Director of Lifestyle Options, Branka's role is to get to know individuals considering moving into a retirement community such as The Village of Wentworth Heights and working closely with the Hamilton community to highlight what the Village offers.  

Her father's was living with Alzheimer’s and the way she was able to love and relate to him during this challenging time has helped her relate to people who are going through similar experiences.

"It has changed my life completely being able to sit on the green bench and meet so many interesting people." - Doug Robinson

"Having a level of responsibility is important as we get older." - Branka Matijevic

"Older adults have so much that we can learn from. It's great to watch the community gather this power and knowledge from the residents on the green bench." -Branka Matijevic

"We're turning things around.  We are having younger people take the time to sit down and to learn from elders on the green bench." - Branka Matijevic

History of the #ElderWisdom campaign

In 2016, we began a campaign to end ageism in our communities by highlighting the wisdom and talents of seniors all while using the #ElderWisdom tag on social media.

• 2016 - Throughout June, we brought the green bench to 13 cities across Ontario where local seniors shared their wisdom with key influencers and community members.
• 2017 - On June 6, 2017, 80 seniors shared #ElderWisdom on the green bench with students at 16 different high schools across Ontario.
• 2018 - In June, 41 seniors from 19 villages participated in #ElderWisdom in 15 cities with the green bench.
• 2019 - Throughout the month of June, 50 seniors shared their #ElderWisdom in the community for 49 hours on the green bench. A Twitter chat with Ron Schlegel and Instagram experience was held on social media as well!
• 2020 - During June, Seniors Month, residents from Schlegel Villages share their #ElderWisdom digitally through our Stories from the Green Bench videos and our LIVE Facebook events on Tuesdays.
• 2021 - Our focus was on this Podcast.
• 2022 - Green Benches returned to the community visiting 6 locations across Ontario  hosting over 114 hours of conversations with 44 Schlegel Villages residents.

End ageism Ageism is a form of discrimination, often experienced by older adults. Our elders have a great deal of wisdom to contribute to their communities. However, societal norms marginalize seniors, treat them with disrespect, make them feel unwelcome and generalize as if they were all the same. Ageism robs seniors of choice, independence, dignity and negatively impacts their quality of life. Let’s use social media to end ageism and celebrate the great things seniors have to offer by sharing #ElderWisdom.

"My wish is that people would have more compassion, patience and to be more inclusive to all ages." -Branka Matijevic

"What I've seen to be most important is the relationships not just amongst residents, but with team members and residents.  We've become one big family." -Branka Matijevic

Cultivate The Ultimate Team Member Experience At Schlegel Villages, we have an amazing culture that stellar team members want to be a part of. We care about our team members as much as we care about our residents. As one family, we learn, grow, and move forward together. We are passionate and find fulfillment in making a difference in people’s lives. Our caring community honours and encourages well-being, and team members are appreciated in personally meaningful ways. Through mentorship, ongoing support, and education we are empowered to go beyond the status quo, and unleash our full potential. “You can be you while being a part of our family.”

"What the elders see while sitting the young ones standing on their toes won't see." - African Proverb

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #3 | Erin Davis along with co-host Lloyd Hetherington join Doug Gilmour on the green bench (virtually) to share his life experiences, trials, triumphs, and wisdom with you.  Doug is a resident at The Village of Riverside Glen, a Schlegel Village, in Guelph, Ontario. His passions include family, trout fishing, square dancing, and writing - including his book, A Successful Life: Overcoming Adversity with Persistence.

*More about Doug's Book

Subscribe for additional episodes on your favourite podcast network and join Erin Davis and Lloyd Hetherington as they explore conversations with seniors in our communities.

Listen and review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify Podcasts

----more----

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

The green bench is a symbol of the untapped wisdom in our communities.  We should all stop to listen, learn, and share #ElderWisdom with older adults around us.

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced and edited by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #20 - Beth Goodwin opens her heart and perhaps your eyes as she discusses being a caregiver to a loved one living with dementia.  Beth's husband Ed lives at The Village at University Gates in Waterloo

Offering safety, security, & love; as a primary caregiver, it is a journey you go through with your spouse and it changes every day, you never know what the next day will bring.

Beth always involves Ed in the daily routines, as much as he wanted to be involved.  "You need to be with them in that moment, and enjoy that time." -Beth Goodwin

"When we see a label like dementia, that's not the end, it's just the beginning of a new chapter." -Lloyd Hetherington

Upon the move to long-term care, there was the realization and relief that she didn't have to be on as a caregiver 24/7, and appreciated knowing the care and kindness he is receiving at The Village.

"As you become burnt out, your care and service diminishes." -Lloyd Hetherington

Where to go for information: - Your Family Doctor - Alzheimer Society - LHIN/Home and Community Care Support Sevices

"There are only four kinds of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers." -Rosalynn Carter

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #54 - Ron Posno joins Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle as our guest on the #ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench podcast. Ron has a plan to fight the legislation that does not allow people living with dementia to request medical assistance in dying.  His plans include moving into the currently under construction retirement phase at The Village at Glendale Crossing in London.

Ron has lived a life of planning, and his story begins with his dream of becoming an Air Force pilot. After meeting his wife Sandy at age 16, Ron pursued his dream and was accepted into a military college. However, Ron realized that marriage and military life were not compatible and so he left the college to become a special needs teacher.

After 62 years of marriage, Ron recounts an incident in 1970 when he was asked to test fly an experimental aircraft. Unfortunately, the plane crashed and Ron suffered a severe injury, losing his left eye and suffering brain damage. He was in a coma for 12 days, and when he emerged, he was diagnosed with MCI, which is often a precursor to dementia.

Ron and Sandy have a plan to fight legislation that does not allow people living with dementia to request MAID, medical assistance in dying. They are looking to the future by setting in motion their own destiny. Ron and Sandy hope to be able to change the law and give people living with dementia the right to choose how they want to live their lives.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #25 - Taking you back through the 20th century thanks to Ross C. Morton, 96yo who resides at The Village of Arbour Trails in Guelph and is accompanied by his daughter, Mavis Morton.  Stories of a one-room school house education, the importance of sharing ones history with family, community and today, on this podcast.

Ross has written 3 books and shares about his first book written in 1997: The Life And Times Of A One-Room School, a history of the Conway Public School, South Fredericksburgh Township, Ontario, 1875-1966 along with the his memories of his boyhood in the 1930's.

"All through my school years, I was never lower in my class than second.  I didn't bother telling them there was never more than 2 in my class all the way through school." - Ross C. Morton

Ross reads about his first day at the one room school in September of 1931.

Ross, at the age of 17, joined the Royal Canadian Air Force, shares about this time of his life and during the second world war.  He reflects on traveling to Ottawa for his assignment and walking into the Chateau Laurier. 

Book #1 - The Life And Times Of A One-Room School (1997) Book #2 - Tales From The Townships (2014) Book #3 - That Reminds Me (2017) Visit rossmorton.ca to learn more.

Ross' Daughter, Mavis, joins to share her gratitude for the history being shared through these books.   She shares about a message Lloyd says in episode 19, "precious memories get lost in the dust of time if we are not careful." 

"It's so important for Ross to have captured how different his life is and has changed over the years." - Mavis Morton

Writing these books was a way to spark memories, spend time, and engage with his wife, who was living with Alzheimers.  A mutual benefit providing purpose and enjoying time together.

Interesting to think that Ross was only 10 years old when getting electricity and today is participating in this podcast to capture and share his stories.

Here's to the storytellers!

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #60 - In this episode, Kathy Buckworth & Evelyn Brindle welcome Esther Pulis from The Village of Taunton Mills to the Green Bench to share captivating stories about her life in both Malta and Canada.

Having immigrated from Malta to Canada in 1965, Esther already had some family members residing in Canada. Coming from a large family of six sisters and five brothers, Esther and her sisters carried on the tradition of creating carnival floats and costumes in both Malta and Canada.

Esther's father was a performer, and she herself used to sing during their performances, bridging the gap between drama and farce. A creative individual, Esther still finds joy in knitting and mentions her desire to design a float promoting peace if her husband were still alive. Overall, Esther provides valuable insights into her experiences and the creative activities that she and her family engaged in, both in Malta and Canada.

Throughout the episode, Esther emphasizes the significance of maintaining close family ties and fostering a sense of community. She shares her advice on achieving this, which includes inviting family members to every event and gathering, preparing abundant food, and engaging in shared activities such as playing bingo and cards.

Esther firmly believes that family always holds paramount importance and should take precedence over friendships. She also expresses her excitement about an upcoming gathering at her son's place, where her niece and her family from Canada will be visiting.

She highlights the importance of staying together as a family and eagerly anticipates the opportunity to see her niece. Additionally, the host mentions the presence of Maltese food during these family gatherings, suggesting that food plays a role in bringing people together and fostering a sense of connection.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #63 - In this heartfelt episode of #ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench, Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle had the pleasure of conversing with the inspiring Royal Hamel from The Village of Winston Park in Kitchener. Royal, who we met at the Schlegel Village Operational Planning Conference in Niagara Falls (Bonus LIVE Episode), shared his journey of faith, positivity, and resilience in the face of life-altering paralysis.

Royal recounted the sudden onset of his condition, which left him paraplegic, and the subsequent challenges he faced. Despite the drastic change in his life, Royal's unwavering faith in Jesus Christ and his 50-year experience as a pastor have been the bedrock of his positive outlook.

Throughout the episode, Royal spoke about the importance of compassion, the power of presence, and the significance of sharing personal experiences. He continues to minister to others at Winston Park long-term care, where he resides, through preaching, Bible studies, and simply being a comforting presence to fellow residents.

Royal also touched upon the importance of modeling compassion to children and the role of faith in fostering a compassionate society. He shared insights from his blog, which has touched the lives of many, and emphasized the importance of gentleness in our interactions with others.

As hosts, Evelyn and Kathy reflected on the wisdom Royal brings to the Green Bench, his ability to connect with others, and the joy he finds in daily interactions. His story is a testament to the power of optimism and the human spirit's capacity to adapt and find purpose even in the most challenging circumstances.

*Link to Royal's blog as mentioned in the episode: https://www.facebook.com/royal.hamel

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #26 - Korleen Schmidt loves to talk about the weather and explain it to those who want to know about it.  She joins hosts Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington on the green bench from The Village at University Gates in Waterloo, a widow, mother of 4, grandmother of 11, talks about the full circle of her life, combining her loves of geography and theology. 

"If not for the weather, we'd have nothing to talk about."

"In her study of theology she's learning and teaching how to go to heaven, and in her study of meteorology she teaches us how the heavens go." -Lloyd Hetherington

• An elementary school teacher in Toronto
• A degree from Western in Geography
• A teaching degree and a masters in theological studies
• and so much more

Pastor Korleen Schmidt - worked 5 years for the United Church in Hanover as the assistant minister.  She grew up in Elmwood, went to a one-room school, and found it to be a great experience.  

"Sometimes we listened and sometimes we didn't, you know how that goes with kids." -Korleen Schmidt

A decision to move in with (and be adopted by) her aunt & uncle after her parents divorced and she attended the Brantford Collegiate Institute. "I was always open to opportunities.  It could not have been better in every way." 

"It's quite an eye opener to be able to look at the vegetation to absorb what's going on.  The snakes, the toads, the fish that we became familiar with in the forest." -Korleen Schmidt

What are words of advice your parents gave you when heading out to play?

What fascinates you about the weather?  "Changes, constant changes."  

"Our weathermen do a fantastic job giving us a good picture of what's expected in the day.  Going into detail that a lot of us just sort of gloss over." -Korleen Schmidt

We've been around the world, visiting close to 50 countries.  

"Doesn't travel broaden your horizons and your understanding of your fellow human in so many ways." -Erin Davis

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #30 - Felix Rommens is 97 years old.  If you are wondering what keeps him young and loving life at The Village of Winston Park in Kitchener, it has to be his art. Erin Davis and guest co-host Doug Reed welcome Felix to the green bench to share in a conversation about his art and about his hearing impairment, which has formed the life is living today.

Nearly 50% of people 75+ have trouble with their hearing.  

"Being deaf, I was kind of a loner.  So, in order not to get completely bonkers, I started working with my hands and my mind." - Felix Rommens

Felix was working in Belgium at the highest he was able to go in office work (hating office work), so he decided to move the whole family to Canada at the age of 41.  A visit to the employment office on the day he landed and went directly into the building process, building homes, working 12 hours a day, 6 days a week.  On the 7th day, he would do work at his own home.

When he retired at 71, he looked forward to the arts and crafts that he enjoyed.  "The whole idea about my art is to keep something for tomorrow, so you keep going." - Felix Rommens

"I have only one life and I want to live it to the end." - Felix Rommens finds projects he looks forwards to with art and continues to use his hands as he did when he was 20.

Felix has the use of a woodshop at the Village to keep active in his art but also works in his suite, finding a way to continue working on projects.

"Keep on the positive side, think of all the good things that have happened to you." - Felix Rommens

Felix was captured by the Nazis during World War II, made to work in factories, awaiting liberation after 2 years in Germany, and then ran at the age of 18 on foot to make it home.  His father was an officer in the Belgian army, shot at 40, and Felix as a child had to take care of him for the next 15 years due to his injuries.

"There are always two sides on a coin - I only took the good ones." - Felix Rommens

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #9 - The story of life in media, radio, tv, and print news and giving back through the Salvation Army and countless community organizations.  Doug Reed, a resident of the Ailsa Craig Neighbourhood located at The Village of Arbour Trails in Guelph, shares his story from the Green Bench in a conversation with host Erin Davis and co-host Lloyd Hetherington.

Learn about Doug's passion for his work with the Salvation Army including being a welcome sargeant, hosting services, setting up a soup kitchen, the Christmas Cheer program, planning and organizing a homeless shelter, and so much more. 

Interested in giving to the Salvation Army?  You can find out how here: https://salvationarmy.ca/donations/

Hear the story of what brought Doug to broadcasting.  Growing up on the farm, every lunch hour, Mr. Braud, would turn on the BBC to listen to the news coming out of the war and he was intrigued by the noise coming out of the box. Pretending as a child that he was a radio announcer, using his father's sunbeam razor on the end of a clothesline pretending it was a microphone.  Reading news and weather reports and then going with his dad to CKOX in Woodstock, and he was hooked.

Listen to more from Doug on his radio show, Doug Reed Musings, with Perry Sound Eastern Shores Online Radio. https://www.parrysoundradio.com/index.php/doug-reed-musings

Doug has always been active in the community he is living in: Town Council, volunteer firefighter, Shriner, mason, alter server, Kiwanis club.  Being involved, paying back, and doing the full circle.

A jokester: Do you have a favourite April Fools Joke?  Learn about some that Doug has been involved in during his career.

"We've got to listen to the stories.  I try to tell my son and my grandchildren the stories of my life and of ancestry." - Doug Reed

"And so ends tonights broadchasing....oops, I mean broadcasting." - Doug Reed

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #41 - Hilda lives at The Village of Wentworth Heights in Hamilton, originally from Germany, joining to share her story from the green bench with Erin Davis & Doug Robinson.  Stories of growing up during World War II, moving to Canada, having a son, leaving a challenging marriage, writing a memoir, and her resilience in all aspects of life.

"We were 6 years old. They told us that the gas masks looked like Mickey Mouse so we wouldn't be scared." - Doug Robinson

At 10 years old, she was strafed by machine-gun fire from a low-flying airplane. She locked eyes with the pilot who was laughing. She was rescued when two women ran out and pulled her to safety. It was an English airplane, and she was a child. 

"They forced us to go into the Hitler youth, otherwise you wouldn't have any future. They pushed us in the direction they wanted us to go under Hitler." - Hilda Bolter

"I saw the danger in which my mother was in to giving the Jewish people food stamps. I took the stamps from my mother and was helping to give them." -Hilda Bolter

Hilda is writing her memoir, it is in German, it’s for her son and her granddaughter.  "It is so powerful to what I went through and I want to tell my son that whatever it is, with the lord's help, you will conquer everything. You don't have to be afraid." -Hilda Bolter

"I wave to them and say hi.  How happy they are and it costs nothing." - Hilda Bolter

“You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it” – Margaret Thatcher

When you can help someone, it makes the world better

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #19 - A conversation on the green bench with Kathe Kleinau about her recent collection of interviews among neighbours at The Village of Wentworth Heights in Hamilton.

The first book called, 'The Founder's Circle', sold out, includes 36 stories, 2 poems, photos, and artwork by a fellow resident, Ann Wingfield.  Book #2 is in the works and will be called, 'The Legacy Continues'.

"One day I got the idea of writing a book. These stories were so amazing and interesting that they needed to be preserved." - Kathe Keinau 

"Kathe, you have the skill of extracting from them, those gems of wisdom that were buried in their heart." -Lloyd Hetherington

Erin Davis asks, what makes a good interviewer? Kathe's reply, "you have to be a good listener"

A life full of new beginnings - Kathe shares her story starting out in Germany during the war, then moving to Canada, Marriage, having children and sharing time with grandchildren, teaching at Humber College, different careers, retirement, and moving to Wentworth Heights.

"I learned to play the piano at 78 and wrote my first book at 85" - Kathe Kleinau

"We're never ever too old to take on new experiences and new opportunities." -Lloyd Hetherington

Question: If you could interview anyone, who would you like to sit with for a conversation on the green bench?

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #43 - Author of medical-based thriller fiction, an expert on healthcare for an aging population, and former deputy minister of health in long-term care in Ontario, Dr. Bob Bell shares his Story from the Green Bench with Erin Davis and Doug Robinson.

During his years at McGill University, Bob crossed paths with our episode #29 guest, Dr. Rea Brown through sports and medical school.  Stumbled into medicine after a knee injury playing football as a linebacker at McGill- this injury got him interested in bones.

Bob's hero is Terry Fox, who suffered osteogenic sarcoma. Terry’s example inspired Bob to pursue a career in orthopedic oncology (bone cancer). Fun Fact: Terry & Bob share the same birthday July 28.

Get involved in your local Terry Fox Run and programs: https://terryfox.org/

Author of medical based thriller fiction

1. Hip: A Novel About the benefits and risks of medical innovations, when a brilliant but unscrupulous scientist uncovers a breakthrough in hip replacement by coating it in a special substance. 

2. New Doc in Maple Ridge The doctor is injured and returns to America from Afghanistan and has to start over. He chooses Maple Ridge Arkansas, to start a practice.

All proceeds from these books support medical research at University Health Network and at Princess Margaret hospital.    Books are available at https://drbobbell.com/

Our aging population is increasing (over 75 years old) by 4% and higher annually as baby boomers reach their golden years.  How will we care for them, how will we afford it, and will that crowd out other spending?

"Schlegel Villages, where the most up to date standards in long-term care and retirement living are observed." - Dr. Bob Bell

"We can be proud of the way our health system responded to the pandemic." - Dr. Bob Bell

What is your hope for the future of healthcare in Canada?

"Where have you seen a fax machine except in a doctors office in the past 10 years?" - Dr. Bob Bell

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #52 - Don Hewson is an intellectual property lawyer and resident of The Village of Erin Meadows in Mississauga, Canada. He has a background in engineering and has traveled to 87 countries, and is an avid fan of classical music and author Louise Penny.  Unlock the hidden gems of wisdom as hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle chat with Don on the Green Bench. "Encourage your children to do whatever it is they want to do and get involved in collegial activities - don't be loners - and be sure to excel in mathematics and science courses to open up a world of possibilities!" Don Hewson had a passion for music and engineering, but it wasn't until he was a senior partner at a law firm specializing in Intellectual Property Law that he was able to combine these two passions. He quickly learned the technical aspects of patent law and soon was travelling around the world to represent his clients. He was also able to introduce his wife, Yummy, to a world of travel and music. Through his work, Don was able to unlock the potential of a variety of projects, from the chocolate coating on Chapman's ice cream to the revolutionary device that enabled the fast and efficient formation of poured concrete buildings. Don's career also allowed him to inspire others to pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How did the invention of a revolutionary concrete forming device revolutionize construction? 2. Why is intellectual property law a field that requires a science or engineering background? 3. What are the benefits of taking a music course in high school, and how did it influence Don Hewson's career?

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #39 - Formerly of New Hamburg now living at The Village at University Gates in Waterloo.  Doug & Erin welcome to the green bench, Joyce Stankiewicz, as they chat about the buddy system, caring for a loved one with dementia, and the importance of forgiveness, humour, and memories.

Sharing marriage stories from 70 years with her husband Bill and the tough conversation when required to take away someone's car keys.  A journey through dementia as Joyce cares for her husband through this process.

What is aphasia? 

Aphasia is a language disorder caused by damage in a specific area of the brain that controls language expression and comprehension. Aphasia leaves a person unable to communicate effectively with others.

Bill was diagnised with Nonfluent Variant Primary Progressive Aphasia. People with nonfluent variant primary progressive aphasia (nfvPPA) tend to come to the doctor’s office with complaints about pronouncing words or increasing trouble getting words out. Their speech may sound slurred, or their voice may change. As time goes on, people with nfvPPA have more trouble putting sentences together, and they eventually begin to speak slower and slower.

Doug's wife also lives with dementia sharing his experience as he noticed changes at home.

"If you have a problem and cannot find out how to solve, then get someone to help you solve it." -Joyce Stankiewicz

"The buddy system: to connect a person who lives at University Gates and knows the routine with someone who just moved into the Village." -Joyce Stankiewicz

Joyce has published two books about her mother. 1. My Journey, by Aida Sauder 2. Famous quotes and quips from Mother Sauder and others

Saying such as, "you get more flies with honey than vinegar", and more quotes shared by Joyce.

Advice for someone who cares for a loved one living with dementia.  "A comfort to be able to talk about it and to know that other share your pain." -Joyce Stankiewicz

"Joy shared is multiplied and pain shared is divided." -unattributed

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #38 - Erin Davis & Doug Robinson sit on the virtual green bench with Anna Piccoli and daughter Franca Smith to continue the conversation on our theme of connection, family, and service.

Anna lives with her husband of 62 years, Aldo, and her sister Josephine at The Village of Glendale Crossing in London, Ontario.

"I love everybody, especially my children and my grandchildren ...  and nobody smokes." -Anna Piccoli

Anna left Italy to live with her sister Josephine in Canada.  While writing back and forth with Aldo for a year, she convinced him to come over to Canada and got married.

Why Canada?  Tony and Josephine moved to London, Ontario as there were lots of job opportunities.  As more family arrived in Canada, the whole family stayed close in the same neighbourhood.

“Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family in another city” - George Burns

What is your favourite Italian dish to cook/eat?

Anna's answer - Lasagna.

She continues to cook at The Village of Glendale Crossing with the recreation team.

Il pane apre tutte le bocche Bread opens all mouths. If you want to get to know someone, invite them to eat with you. Good food can bring good conversation.

Everyone gives Anna yarn so that she can crochet items for them.

Franca shares about the Art Show: Home and Away, asking local artists to share their art about where they came from and what brought them to Canada asking the question which felt like home and which felt like away.

Interested in getting a book?  Reach out to elderwisdom@Schlegelvillages.com and we will connect you with Franca.

"Family comes first. Everything revolves around family, and food."  -Franca Smith

"When you learn about where your family came from and what they have been through to get us to where we are.  It is quite amazing." -Franca Smith

Anna shares scary memories from being 14 years old and living through the war. Her uncle understanding the German language supported them to be able to get away as they jumped home to home to survive.

Grazie

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #67 - Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle had the pleasure of speaking with Murray Woods, a man with a wealth of life experiences and wisdom (Recorded at The Village of Arbour Trails in Guelph). Murray, born in 1932 on a farm in Dufferin County, shared vivid memories from his childhood, including a daring ride on the back of a car at the age of five, which became a defining story of his early years.

Murray's career journey was equally fascinating. He spent 19 years as an egg grader, explaining the intricate process of grading eggs and the technological advancements in the field. He also had a significant tenure with Masterfeeds, where he witnessed and contributed to the evolution of the poultry industry, including his involvement with the early days of Swiss Chalet restaurants in Toronto.

A passionate sports enthusiast, Murray has been actively involved in both baseball and curling. He shared his experiences as a fastball pitcher and his long-standing love for curling, a sport he continues to play twice a week at the age of 91. Murray's insights into the spirit of curling, the changes in the sport over the years, and his personal achievements, including being part of a rare seven-ender game, were truly inspiring.

Murray also imparted some timeless wisdom, emphasizing the importance of counting blessings, courage, and health over crosses, fears, and wealth. His guidelines for a fulfilling life resonated deeply with us and are sure to inspire our listeners.

We wrapped up the episode with a light-hearted note, leaving the age-old question of what comes first, the chicken or the egg, up in the air for our audience to ponder. 

*Schlegel Villages is proud to sponsor the Grand Slam of Curling 2024/25 Season and look forward to joining everyone at the WFG Masters, hosted in Guelph at the Sleeman Centre, January 14-19, 2025.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #15 - A sparkling chat with Margaret Collard who has given her life to ministry joins Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington from The Village of Winston Park in Kitchener to share her story from the green bench.

A Minister for the United Church of Canada in Scarborough, with a focus on street ministry in outreach projects, Margaret shares about the challenging work with her community. Her husband, former Waterloo Regional Police Officer, was also doing justice work on the streets alongside her.  "it is better to work in pairs"

Margaret mentions the Rouge National Urban Park the work that she and her family did with people in the area. Agincourt Community Centre, churches and groups provided food and supplies within the community.

We learn about the importance to really listen to those around us and those asking for help.

"Just being in their presence saying, I'm here and I care." -Lloyd Hetherington

"When we really listen to their story, we can learn from that." -Margaret Collard

Margaret's children and grandchildren have been exposed to the way of life on the street as she teaches them the importance to stop and listen to people.  Rather than just giving them money, offering a place to go get some food or get what they needed.  Showing the children that these are people who deserve our respect, but also a warning not to bury our heads be alert to the risk.

"Children are really bright.  We sometimes don't give them the credit." -Margaret Collard

"We must treat everyone with dignity & respect." -Lloyd Hetherington

You cannot just group everyone under the same umbrella.  It takes the whole community to be alert and ask what can they do to make a difference.  Churches and Community Centres play a significant role to support while transforming the caregiver and the individual being cared for.  Important to try and understand where that person is coming from.  

"Anyone can be an activist by writing letters, by not turning a blind eye." -Erin Davis

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #56 - Flying into another great story from the green bench as hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome Ferg Kyle to take a seat.  Ferg joins us from The Village of Tansley Woods in Burlington to talk about his lucky life, overcoming challenges and his passion for flying.

Ferg believes he is a very lucky man. He lives by the quote from Gary Player, “The harder you work, the luckier you get."

Learn how he overcame health challenges to live out his dream, never taking his eye off of his lofty goals including his time as a fighter pilot and then as a commercial pilot for Air Canada.

As a child, the doctor told Ferg's mother that he could expect to live to the age of 28 due to a heart condition.  Now at the age of 93, he considers the luck in his life.

"The doctor told my mom that I could expect to live to age 28 due to a heart condition.  I had a normal life. I should say that I am 93, I call that lucky." - Ferg Kyle

"I was proud to be a member of the Canadian Air Force, and I learned a great deal from veterans of WWII." - Ferg Kyle

"I had what I wanted, got what I wanted, and nobody asked me for a penny." - Ferg Kyle

Ferg flew 10 different aircraft with Air Canada in his career.  He shares his passion for flying as well and also has two sons who are pilots.

“Remember that sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.” – Dalai Lama XIV

Do you think you can attract luck, or is it something that just happens to you?

"If you behave properly, you have better luck than those who don't." - Ferg Kyle

Ferg's Advice - Get on with things. Don't waste time. And pay attention to what your mother says.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #22 - Brendan Rossiter chose Canada to move to 52 years ago. He joins us from The Village of Erin Meadows long-term care in Mississauga to share a lifetime of wisdom about work, kicking habits, and being resourceful.

Born in Ireland, Brendan is a natural storyteller, a perfect fit as Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington welcome him to the green bench.

"Born in a great country, now living in a great country." 

Brendan had his own business as a sewing machine mechanic.  He sold, rented, and fixed high-end sewing machines.  Often supplying the movie business including Goodwill Hunting. 

"I smoked 50 cigarettes a day." Realizing that smoking was the cause of his shortness of breath, he made the decision to quit and hasn't smoked for 43 years.  Do you remember how much a pack of cigarettes was in 1978?

Brendan was the youngest of 6 boys and has one younger sister. 

He talks about what he would change in his life if he was 21 today. Sharing about going into the trades and having apprenticeships.

"You have to use your head." -Brendan Rossiter Saving a portion of your income is a great tool to support your future. "Take a look at your finances and control them, don't let them control you." -Lloyd Hetherington

A conversation about living at Erin Meadows and Lloyd at Riverside Glen.

"I like being treated like the president rather than the resident." -Lloyd Hetherington

"There is nothing that comes near this place, the food is excellent, the staff go out of their way." -Brendan Rossiter

"If you have spare time, you must remember that there is always something that you can find to do." -Brendan Rossiter

"The thing about Ireland, we laugh at ourselves and not get upset."

"There's 50% off the Irish that don't drink, the other 50% make up for it."

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #17 - Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington welcome Deborah Bakti, author of Now What? Managing the Emotional Journey of Long Term Care for Families. Designed to be a valuable resource for the families of new residents, while also supporting seniors’ care providers who want to develop healthy, productive relationships with their families.

Erin: Do you ever read a book and go, wow, where were you when I needed this?

"It was so down to earth, so practical. I wish I had found it years ago ... I just love it! It's well written, the very definite points so easily picked out and mastered.  Every person considering long-term care should read." -Lloyd Hetherington about Now What? Managing the Emotional Journey of Long Term Care for Families 

Written as a resource for family members who needed to make a decision to move a loved one into long-term care.  The second audience is those who work in seniors care who want to have strong healthy relationships with the families of those they care for.

Now What? Managing the Emotional Journey of Long Term Care for Families - available at deborahbakti.com

Deborah shares her experiences working in senior living as well as her role as a family member with loved ones living in long-term care and retirement.

Learn about the Seven A’s families transition through – from awareness to appreciation.

"We don't have to like or love something in order to accept it." -Deborah Bakti

COMPLIMENTARY COPIES AVAILABLE! Contact one of our Retirement Villages' Director of Lifestyle Options to ask for a copy of Deborah's book. https://schlegelvillages.com/locations

Now What? covers some of the misconceptions families have of long-term care, to provide further insight and clarity. It’s designed to help both caregivers and families avoid frustration and disappointment.

Connect with Deborah on Social Media: LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

"Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." -Viktor Frankl

"There are no slow days in long-term care ... sometimes we just have to step back and take a breath." -Deborah Bakti

We appreciate the work, dedication, and care that senior living workers provide our elders every day.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #64 - Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle had the pleasure of chatting with two very special guests, Shirley, a resident at The Village of Glendale Crossing in London, and Rob Dore, chaplain and baking aficionado of the community.

Shirley shared her journey of moving into the village to avoid the risks of living alone in a townhouse. Known affectionately as "the hugger," Shirley has embraced her new community with open arms, literally, offering hugs and peppermints to fellow residents and staff. She actively participates in various activities, including euchre, bingo, and especially Rob's cooking classes, which she attends without fail.

Rob, on the other hand, brings people together through spiritual programs as well as his love of baking/cooking. He hosts weekly cooking classes where residents can socialize, enjoy fresh treats, and learn about different cuisines from Rob's travels. From Detroit-style pizza to English flapjacks, Rob's classes are a hit, drawing in crowds eager to taste his creations and share in the camaraderie.

The conversation also touched on the importance of food in fostering community and how it can evoke memories of travel or childhood. Shirley and Rob both emphasized the significance of staying active and social to avoid the loneliness that can come with age.

Shirley's advice to anyone considering a move to a Schlegel Village is simple: relax, talk to everyone, and you'll make many friends. Her approach to life at the village is a testament to the power of community and the joy that can be found in the simple act of giving a hug.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #55 - Ab Moore tells his story of how the Schlegel Villages came to Guelph as he sits on the Green Bench with hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle from The Village of Arbour Trails. Through consultation with his family, Ab and his mother looked at retirement homes in the area, eventually settling on a development called Foxwood Place; a 50-unit building built by a group of volunteers from various denominations. Ab then joined the board in 1987, helping to secure the sponsorship of the Canadian Central Mortgage and Housing Corporation. 

"It was evident back then that there were many people in retirement that were finding it difficult to find safe and affordable accommodation." - Ab Moore

“I had observed what was going on and felt it was time for me to volunteer. So I joined the board in about 1987.” - Ab Moore

Ailsa Craig is the name of the Independent Living lifestyle option at Schlegel Villages.  Learn about the name and its role at the Village.

"The values that I picked up as a child from my parents and from the religious community in which I grew up, that there is a value in sharing with others." - Ab Moore

"Older adults have so much that we can learn from." - Kathy Buckworth

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #46 - Evelyn Brindle lives at The Village of Erin Meadows in Mississauga with her husband David.  A conversation about critical thinking, long-distance relationships, and unexpected travel with Erin Davis & Doug Robinson on the Green Bench.

"If you just stop and talk with somebody. Everybody's got a story.  You don't have to have a movie of the week or a book made about you." - Erin Davis

The Village has a library that is well used.  The continuous increase of books that are brought in and mixed around.

Evelyn always snuck a book into her grandchildren's stockings at Christmas to encourage reading.

What are your book recommendations?

"It's so important to have the ability to read and to enjoy what you are reading." - Evelyn Brindle

Evelyn has 2 daughters and 4 grandchildren, with one daughter living in Hong Kong.  A conversation about staying in touch and how that has changed over the past 25 years.

“Everyone is a person, everyone is beautiful, and everyone has something to contribute.”  - Evelyn Brindle

Sharing some laughs as Evelyn shares about her honeymoon travel stories.

Reading the newspaper has been an enjoyment for husband, David living with dementia.  With discussing what he is reading and encouraging it, he has reclaimed his ability and joy to read and has moved onto a variety of books.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #61 - Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome two incredible individuals from The Village at University Gates in Waterloo, Bob and Emily Leland, who shared their passions, stories, and wisdom with us.

Here are three key takeaways from this inspiring conversation:

1️⃣ The Power of Positivity: Bob and Emily emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive outlook on life. Bob shared his belief in making people smile and laugh every day, reminding us that laughter truly is contagious. Let's remember to spread positivity and uplift those around us, even through the simplest acts of kindness. 

2️⃣ The Joy of Connection: Emily expressed her passion for being with people, whether it's family, friends, or loved ones. She highlighted the immense joy that comes from sharing moments and creating meaningful connections. Let's cherish and nurture our relationships, as they bring us immense happiness and fulfillment. 

3️⃣ Pursuit of Passions: The Schlegel Village community has embarked on a wonderful initiative called "Pursuit of Passion," which celebrates the stories and passions of their residents. This reminds us to continue seeking and living our own passions, as they bring meaning and purpose to our lives. Let's explore new interests, pursue our dreams, and find joy in the things that make us come alive. 

See the 2023 Pursuit of Passions Exhibit at https://schlegelvillages.com/popxew

We are incredibly grateful to Bob and Emily for sharing their wisdom and stories with us. Their words have touched our hearts and inspired us to embrace positivity, connection, and the pursuit of our passions.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #51 - Sharing our gratitude to Erin Davis & Doug Robinson as they pass the microphones to our new co-hosts Kathy Buckworth & Evelyn Brindle.  Have a listen to the farewells, welcomes, laughter, tears, singing and wealth of #ElderWisdom as we kick off the 5th season and transition of our hosts.

Introductions:

Kathy Buckworth has a long history as a radio personality and listeners will recognize her as the host of the radio show and podcast Go-To Grandma on Zoomer Radio. She’s a mother of four and a grandmother of two, and she has shared her perspective on the art of parenting in six separate books.

Evelyn Brindle is a resident of The Village of Erin Meadows retirement community in Mississauga and she holds a Masters Degree in Journalism. She’s a two-time cancer survivor, a mother, and a grandmother, and her energy and enthusiasm are contagious; many might be surprised to learn that she is in her 85th year, but then that is the point of the #ElderWisdom podcast.   Episode #46 featuring Evelyn.

Doug shares about the Pearls of Wisdom feature being added to this year's podcasts.  We invite seniors from around the world to submit their voices and #ElderWisdom with us with the chance to be on the podcast.

Visit ElderWisdom.ca and click on the pearls of wisdom tab.

You will be prompted to share your answer to 3 questions:

1. Who have you looked up to in your life and what wisdom from them do you keep with you?
2. What has been an unexpected source of joy for you?
3. Are there any words of wisdom that you wish to share with the younger generation?

As Erin and Doug reflect on being co-hosts, they share the memories and wisdom they take with them.

Erin shares about our guest, Jack Paleczny, and the vulnerability in the chaplaincy work that he experienced. (Go back to listen to episode #36)

Doug will always remember the story of Aunt Reta and her skipping rope. (Listen back to episode #37 to hear more)

Thank you Erin & Doug for being such welcoming hosts for our guests in the previous seasons and we look forward to continuing the storytelling into season 5 and on.  Keep up with Erin Davis by subscribing to the Drift with Erin Davis podcast and Gracefully and Frankly podcast.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #49 - Spirituality & Aging in Long-Term Care & Retirement homes can build connection and community.  Erin Davis & Doug Robinson welcome Dr. Jane Kuepfer, PhD, MDiv, RP to the green bench to share about her role as the Schlegel Specialist in Spirituality and Aging, her hopes for the future, how spirituality is embraced and supported in all homes, and why.

What is the difference between spiritual and religious?

"Spirituality is the capacity that we all have for experiencing meaning and connection in life." - Dr. Jane Kuepfer

We have come to miss the connection in our communities over the pandemic.  It is important to find that sense of belonging, the feeling of home.

Jane is the Spiritual Life Facilitator at The Village at University Gates in Waterloo.  She shares about her role and what qualities someone who may be interested in joining a team at a long-term care or retirement setting.

How do you approach your day?  "with positivity and honesty … we build each other up"

"Our faith evolves throughout life as we grow and mature.  That doesn't stop when we get to the later years." - Jane Kuepfer

Programs building community through spirituality at University Gates may include a Spiritual Life Gathering, Singing, Storytelling, Flowers, one-on-one discussions and more.

"I'd love to see what's happening in our home as we give permission to talk about mortality and to imagine." - Jane Kuepfer

Dr. Jane Kuepfer is the Schlegel Specialist in Spirituality and Aging with the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging. Join Jane at the 10th International Conference on Aging and Spirituality in June 2023: https://uwaterloo.ca/ageing-spirituality/

“a long-term care home is primarily the home of its residents and is to be operated so that it is a place where they may live with dignity and in security, safety and comfort and have their physical, psychological, social, spiritual and cultural needs adequately met.” - Ontario Long-Term Care Act

"Sometimes spirituality can be the word tacked onto the end of the list of the ways we want to care for people." - Jane Kuepfer

The Residents’ Bill of Rights (The Ontario Association of Residents’ Councils) #10. Every resident has the right to pursue social, cultural, religious, spiritual and other interests, to develop their potential and to be given reasonable assistance by the licensee to pursue these interests and to develop their potential.

"There is such strength in vulnerability, in opening yourself up and telling your story." -Erin Davis

We hear about the Dignity Walk at Schlegel Villages and the power of community as a resident leaves the village for the last time.

What's on your bedside table? Spiritual Resilience: 30 Days to Refresh Your Soul - Robert J. Wicks

“You are never alone. You are eternally connected with everyone.” – Amit Ray 

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #40 - June Campbell is a resident at The Village of Riverside Glen in Guelph, shares with Erin Davis & Doug Robinson on the green bench.  She has lived a life that has not only witnessed history as it happened but in which she even rubbed elbows with Gordon Pinsent with whom she went to school.  June was born in St. John's, Newfoundland before it was even a part of Canada, learn more by listening to her story from the green bench.

June lived a proud moment in Canadian history and remembers when the premier, Joseph Smallwood, signed the documents on March 31st, 1949 when Newfoundlanders to become Canadians.

"Joseph Smallwood did not want any jokes about April fools, so he had the papers signed on the 31st. And then we all became naturalized citizens."

"We had our own currency, our own stamps, and paid duty from everything we ordered from Canada, even from the Sears catalogue." - June Campbell

In her first marriage of 22 years, she experienced a challenge with religious differences and her parents not accepting the mixed marriage between Catholic and Protestant.  "I got used to it after a while"

June went to a girls school which was very strict, having to walk in a crocodile line when walking past the boys school, and not allowed to look.

"The boys school was Bishop Field, the girls was Bishop Spencer, and never the train should meet." - June Campbell

Come From Away - the story of 911 when the air traffic had to find a place to land and ending up in Newfoundland.  Show details at https://comefromaway.com 

40 Years old, 3 children and love strikes again. "I hadn't heard his voice in 25 years, but I recognized it. And this is the man I married the following year." -June Campbell

Her second husband of 30 years, Gordon, was the youngest of 10 children. "Yes, we had 10, but they stopped when they attained perfection."

A Travel Conversation including: Australia, Barbados, Russia, Estonia, UK and more

"I married him for his Air Canada pass, and he married me for my underground parking." -June Campbell

Book: In a Sunburned Country, Bill Bryson  Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24.In_a_Sunburned_Country 

"It's all about making the new connections where you are." - Erin Davis

A great idea to share who you are by posting a photo outside your door in the retirement and long-term care home of when you were younger.  We would love to see a photo of you when you were younger.

"So important to remind people that we are the same spirits, the same soul, the same people.  It's just that our suits have gotten a little wrinkled over the years." - Erin Davis

"You can't beat a nice cod steak.  It makes good fish & chips." - Doug Robinson

If you could travel somewhere tomorrow (no limits), where would you go?

Book: Mourning Has Broken by Erin Davis - https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443454636/mourning-has-broken/

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Bonus Episode - Erin Davis and Doug Robinson are joined in this special episode with the Ontario Association of Residents' Councils, Melissa McVie, Director of Education and Communications, and Devora Greenspon, LTC Resident and REAL Group Co-Chair.

Barry Hickling was our guest in Episode #5 speaking about ageism, living in long-term care, and his role with the OARC. We encourage you to revisit this conversation.

Devora was encouraged by the staff at her Long-Term Care home to participate in the Residents' Council.  Feeling of chaos in the meeting and not being shy, stepped in.  Before she knew it she was the president of their residents' council.

"There was absolute chaos during the meeting.  I'm not shy so I just took over.  Next thing I knew I was president of the Residents' Council." - Devora Greenspon

Devora’s Residents’ Council has adopted a Shared Leadership team model with residents from different parts of her home comprising a team that leads the work of Council based on individual strengths. She uses this inclusive team model in place of the traditional Executive model with a President, Secretary etc.

"Residents' Council is a great place for residents to express their hopes, their goals, their concerns with no fear of retribution." - Devora Greenspon

Residents' Councils are mandated to exist in every long-term care home.  A vehicle through which residents can speak about the good, the bad, the ugly, and collaborate with the leadership in their home.

"Residents' Councils welcome an open dialogue with the leadership team in their long-term care home." - Melissa McVie

"Council is a place for residents to meet one another and develop relationships.  So important when you live in long-term care." - Devora Greenspon

Learn more about OARC and access their newsletter, Season’s Magazine: https://www.ontarc.com/ 

"Everyone has a story, we cannot paint all residents with the same brush.  Take a little extra time to get to know one's story." - Melissa McVie

Doug learns how to say 'good morning' in different languages to be able to greet each resident.

"I did not go into long-term care to die, but to live.  To have a fruitful, happy, quality of life." - Devora Greenspon

What are your hopes for the future of long-term care?

Devora - To make quality of life better and better for each resident.

Erin Davis hears in our conversation, 'I'm still me, I will be heard, I want to be part of my community, and I want to help plan for the future.'

What is REAL “Resident Expert Advisors and Leaders”? Is comprised of members who are resident leaders living in LTC homes across Ontario. It is an advisory group; REAL members bring their own lived experiences and perspectives as residents helping to inform and guide OARC’s work

*An OARC legacy program is in the works to award a long-term care home in Ontario a green #ElderWisdom bench each year in memory of Sharron Cooke.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #12 - This isn't David's first time in front of a mic, he's been providing entertainment for audiences for most of his life. His spirit of living life to its fullest, even as he battles a difficult health challenge, is all about connection.  David shares his Story from the Green Bench from the Schlegel Village, Pinehaven Nursing Home in Waterloo.

Born in Elmira in a little apartment over top of a blacksmith shop.  Has lived in Waterloo for most of his life, with some time in Toronto to work at Steve's Music Store, where he had the privilege of meeting Eddie Van Halen, The Hollies, The Moody Blues, The Police, and others. 

A musician from a young age. "My brother was stuck with the accordion and I got to play the Hawaiian guitar." It gave him an insight into the guitar and later led to a Spanish guitar. He joined a high school rock band and they most wanted to be like The Beatles.

His musical career as part of the band called 'The Town Choir' toured across Ontario and New York State.  

*Back in 1969 David wrote and recorded a song called 'Smile' with his band.  Lost the tape and recently found it, fixed it up, and got it on a CD.  Jim and Ralph recorded Smile - have a listen.

"The world needs a big smile today." - Lloyd Hetherington

In grade 13, David had a fight with his dad and left home, sleeping wherever he could find comfort.  A friend's father got him a job and gave him a room.  

"I had good friends. Without them, I wouldn't have survived." -David Boehm

Prior to getting married David and his wife-to-be had a son.  Her parents wouldn't allow them to raise him so they had to put him up for adoption.  He has recently connected with his son and enjoys hearing about his life and the lives of his grandchildren. He hopes to one day be able to visit with them.

"Clearly some of those strands of DNA are guitar strings." -Erin Davis to David Boehm regarding his son and his grandchildren

David started up a small company called Aquatic Designs, where he set-up and maintained aquariums.  He has an interest in fish - spent time with the Willowdale Aquarium Society and volunteered at Royal Ontario Museum identifying fishes and going on field trips.

"Learned a lot from being a volunteer at The Royal Ontario Museum." -David Boehm

More in this episode:

• teaching himself how to use computers
• working with M&T printing group for 17 years
• dreaming of the future
• continuing to learn and grow
• connecting through technology

"As long as you have love, you are going to be alright." - David Boehm

David Allan Boehm, 73, of Waterloo, Ontario, passed peacefully in his sleep on December 20, 2021, after a lengthy battle with multiple myeloma.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #16 - A conversation with two people who are the strong threads that bind this quilt of a caring community together.  Celebrating team members at Schlegel Villages during Caregivers' Week we welcome Trish Baird from The Village at University Gates and Merry Snider from The Village of Winston Park.

Trish began as a Personal Support Worker and is currently a Registered Practical Nurse at The Village at University Gates in Waterloo.  'Behind every great nurse, there is a running PSW'.  She shares the differences between an RPN and a PSW, but both rely on each other to fully take care of each resident.

Merry, found her calling to the PSW role working with seniors through her relationship with her great-grandmother.  Learning the history of seniors she cares for allows her to better care for them. "Seniors give me joy, they give me so much comfort" - Merry Snider

A holistic approach to living where every team member is involved.  What is best for the resident, asking; how would you like this done? what would you like today?  what would you like to do today?  Verbal and non-verbal communication, and building a lot of trust with each resident.

Working in senior care: how do you deal with the connections you make and how do you deal with the loss?

Learn about the Dignity Walk that happens across Schlegel Villages when a resident passes away and experienced grief.

Trish & Merry share advice to those interested in starting their career in senior living. 

"We do it for those tiny moments of a nice warm handhold, a smile or a gesture that you take with you." -Trish Baird, RPN

"There's a way and then there's a Schlegel way" -Merry Snider

"You exemplify the culture of Schlegel Villages, where people are important." -Lloyd Hetherington to Merry & Trish

At Schlegel Villages, we have an amazing culture that stellar team members want to be a part of. We care about our team members as much as we care about our residents. As one family, we learn, grow, and move forward together. We are passionate and find fulfillment in making a difference in people’s lives. Our caring community honours and encourages well-being, and team members are appreciated in personally meaningful ways. Through mentorship, ongoing support, and education we are empowered to go beyond the status quo, and unleash our full potential. “You can be you while being a part of our family.”

For more information about working at Schlegel Villages visit schlegelvillages.com/opportunities

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #74 - Co-hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome Michael Tepsich, a resident of the Village of Erin Meadows, who shares his remarkable life story. Michael, who has been married to his wife Rose for 67 years, reflects on his upbringing in a northern Quebec mining town, where he navigated the challenges of learning multiple languages as the child of immigrants.

Michael discusses his career journey, transitioning from a cost accountant to a beloved school teacher, and emphasizes the importance of family in his life. He shares heartwarming anecdotes about his children and grandchildren, highlighting the joy they bring him.

A significant part of the conversation revolves around the influence of Dr. Jim, a mentor from Michael's childhood, who taught him valuable life lessons about language, sharing sorrow and happiness, and the importance of living a meaningful life. Michael's passion for fishing, which began with Dr. Jim, is also explored, showcasing how it became a cherished hobby and a source of peace throughout his life.

As the episode wraps up, Michael offers advice on maintaining balance in family life and finances, reflecting on the different challenges faced by today's families compared to his own experiences. His gratitude for life, despite health challenges, shines through, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and inspiration.

Join us for this touching episode filled with wisdom, love, and the enduring spirit of family. Don't forget to subscribe and share your own words of wisdom using the hashtag #ElderWisdom!

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #1 | Erin Davis along with co-host Lloyd Hetherington joins Doug Robinson on the green bench (virtually) to explore life, love, and grief.  Doug is a resident at The Village of Sandalwood Park, a Schlegel Village, in Brampton, Ontario. He shares stories from his work in the hospitality industry, his brush with royalty, his relationship with his wife of 60 years, and discusses grief.

Subscribe for additional episodes on your favourite podcast network and join Erin Davis and Lloyd Hetherington as they explore conversations with seniors in our communities.

Listen and review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify Podcasts

----more----

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

The green bench is a symbol of the untapped wisdom in our communities.  We should all stop to listen, learn, and share #ElderWisdom with older adults around us.

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement and long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced and edited by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Bonus Episode - We turn our focus to Covid-19 and thank Kaye & Jeff for sharing in this important and timely discussion. The Village at St. Clair has recently garnered negative attention in the news and online media.  Hear their stories about having covid, working/living in long-term care through the pandemic and their hopes for the future.

Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington are grateful to be joined for a conversation on the green bench to hear these stories.

Kaye Brown, resident of the Village at St. Clair and president of the Residents' Council following in her father's footsteps as he was the mayor of Winsdor, England.  

Jeff Studman, Personal Support Worker at the Village at St. Clair joins us to share his experience in Village life and throughout this pandemic.  

Kaye, as the President of the Residents' Council, plans to do lots for her neighbours including planting a healing garden in memory of those who passed away through Covid-19.  A tree in memory of the residents, and a tree to honour the support that the Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare team offered the Village through their challenges.

"A caring attitude is so essential in leadership." -Lloyd Hetherington

Bryce McBain along with many other Schlegel Villages' team members joining forces with The Village at St. Clair team through their challenging outbreak.

Kaye's interview with Jenny Mitchell on CFRU radio, Guelph: https://bridgingthesocialdistance.substack.com/p/123-kaye-brown-the-village-at-st

Kaye Brown story with Anne Jarvis of the Windsor Star: https://windsorstar.com/news/local-news/jarvis-i-dont-think-that-ill-ever-get-over-that

"We have a responsibility: to be sensitive and to follow the guidelines, and to look for the light at the end of the tunnel." -Lloyd Hetherington

A fine example of a community coming together in Windsor, Jeff returned to work to find Hotel Dieu Healthcare team and Agency team member working well together, he couldn't even tell them apart from the St. Clair team.  We owe them all a huge thank you!

Jeff & Kaye share their messages to those who may still be holding onto misconceptions around Covid-19 and the effects on The Village at St. Clair and senior living in general.  

What pre-covid things are you missing out on today, and what are you looking forward to doing when you are able?

"I think that we are getting closer, now that the vaccination has gone through, I'm getting that feeling of normalcy again. I'm starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel." -Jeff Studman

Kaye and Lloyd share how safe they feel living in their respective villages. "We have been so shut away for so long, we do want a barbeque." -Kaye Brown

"We're in the same boat, so let's navigate these stormy waters together." -Erin Davis

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #57 - Co-hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle explore the significance of family and the importance of showing respect towards elders. They emphasize that family should be cherished above all else, underscoring the value of maintaining strong relationships with our loved ones, especially grandparents.

The co-hosts highlight the wealth of life experiences and wisdom that grandparents possess. They describe grandparents as individuals who have lived through real-life situations, setting them apart from simply reading about history in books. They believe that it is crucial for children to have the opportunity to learn from their grandparents and gain insights from their experiences.

Respecting elders is another topic the co-hosts touch upon. They stress the importance of honoring the parenting styles and decisions of the younger generation when becoming a grandparent. They acknowledge that each generation may have different approaches to parenting, emphasizing the need for understanding and support.

Furthermore, the co-hosts delve into the role of love in family relationships. They emphasize the significance of expressing love and support to family members, particularly the younger generations. They encourage listeners to cherish the good times with their loved ones and to always be present and supportive.

Overall, this episode underscores the value of family and the importance of respecting and cherishing elders. It emphasizes the significance of maintaining strong family relationships, learning from the wisdom of grandparents, and expressing love and support to family members.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #71 - Hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle engage in a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Sharon Hunwicks, a resident of Erin Mills Lodge Long-Term Care in Mississauga. Sharon shares her personal journey with Parkinson's disease, having been diagnosed at the early age of 43. She discusses the initial denial, the challenges of managing symptoms, and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude despite the daily struggles.

Sharon also delves into her extensive experience mentoring teenagers, particularly those facing communication barriers and cultural adjustments. She recounts how she became involved in youth mentorship through her local recreation center and the positive impact she has had on many young lives. Sharon emphasizes the importance of listening, providing guidance, and encouraging young people to explore various opportunities.

The conversation shifts to Sharon's professional background, including her time working at the Office of the Attorney General. She explains how her career in politics began and how it has influenced her advocacy work for Parkinson's awareness.

Throughout the episode, Sharon offers valuable advice for those newly diagnosed with Parkinson's or supporting someone with the disease. She highlights the significance of staying informed, maintaining a routine, and seeking support from community resources.

Her resilience and dedication to helping others shine through as she shares her story. Sharon's involvement in the Schlegel Villages community, including participating in events like the Schlegel Olympics, underscores her commitment to staying active and engaged.

Listeners are encouraged to visit Parkinson's Canada and the Michael J. Fox Research Foundation for more information and resources. Sharon's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community support, and the wisdom that comes with experience.

Parkinson Canada: https://www.parkinson.ca/

The Michael J. Fox Foundation: https://www.michaeljfox.org/

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #24 - Hosts Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington are joined on the green bench by the sparkling Betty Anne Millar from Burlington, Ontario.  Fashionable in her only pair of jeans, they chat about her fairytale career in the Shopping Mall industry, dressing to raise your spirits, continuous contributions to her community, and planning for her future including getting her name on the list for a suite at The Village of Tansley Woods Retirement, for when she is ready.

Betty Anne Never owned a pair of jeans in her life, however, when shopping in Oakville and saw a fabulous pair of jeans with sequins and lace, and a sale, she decided to purchase them. She wore them when her husband was undergoing major surgery as she wanted to be perky and be dressed perky.

"There is so much to be said to be dressing to raise your spirits." - Erin Davis

"When you dress well, you feel good." - Betty Anne Millar

Betty Anne describes her work as a fairytale career and loved every second in the shopping mall industry. She began as the secretary at the Burlington Mall when it opened in 1968, moved into the role as assistant manager in 1973, was promoted to general manager in 1975, and then to regional manager. She continued to be a mentor to many, training marketing and management prospects.

"Get the job done. Plunge in, do it with enthusiasm and conviction." -Lloyd Hetherington

"If a woman is intelligent, if she is proficient in her job, if she communicates effectively, if she conducts herself professionally, and if she has the energy and the determination to do the job well that it would be recognized by her associates." - Betty Anne Millar

Betty Anne's 4D motto: Dedicated, Determination, Diplomacy & Discipline

Continuing to contribute to her community; Bible study course, involved in her church with readings, prayers, visiting the hospital, VP/President of PROBUS Canada, social sponsor of Beta Sigma Phi and so much more including her commitment to the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation in raising funds, a member of the board, and community chairman.

A year of writing eulogies pushed Betty Anne to attend conferences about the afterlife, meeting the most brilliant minds in the world, listening to speakers including Dr. Edward Close. 

"I have been so incredibly blessed. I have attended 13 conferences dealing with the afterlife. I have met the most brilliant minds in the world." -Betty Anne Millar

Betty focusses on planning for her life - in 2013 when The Village of Tansley Woods Retirement opened, she was sure to put her name down for when she needed a place. "The best insurance policy she could have."

"It's just such a piece-of-mind to know, that if I needed a place to go, that I already have it organized to move to The Village of Tansley Woods." -Betty Anne Millar

If you were to sit on the #ElderWisdom bench with anyone, who would you choose to join for a conversation?

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #31 - Rita Munro joins Erin Davis from The Village of Arbour Trails in Guelph, a place she makes more beautiful simply by being there, sharing her outdoor expertise, and bringing people together to grow gardens and friendships.  

When Rita moved to the Village, she suggested a need for a garden outside the front of the Village.  Pitched the idea to Wendy, Director of Lifestyle Options, and everyone came together to make this happen.

Gardening advice from Rita. "Look at the plants/flowers that you really like and research its requirements.  It's not rocket science or difficult at all."

"Don't be intimidated by gardening because it not really a difficult thing at all." -Rita Munro

Rita worked in the operating room all of her career, in a high energy tense state all the time.  Coming home to her garden, her own little paradise to enjoy and let the tense or emotional feelings fade away.

"Anyone can benefit from time outside; a green pleasant smelling outdoor spot brings solace." -Rita Munro

From Medium.com: Those who garden regularly have the most benefits from the sensory experience - Exercise - Stress reduction - Decreased risk of dementia - Good dose of sunshine - pulling weeds can burn upto 400 calories an hour - critical thought which keeps you sharp

Featured Poem read by Lloyd Hetherington: God's Garden by Dorothy Gurney

Rita shares about her career as a nurse and how it began in Kingston and enjoyed every moment throughout her life. About her career as a nurse in the operating room, "everything that you are doing is helping someone, there's terrific team spirit, and clear organization." -Rita Munro

"So disappointing that people would use the locations of hospitals to protest trying to undermind this group of people that we need more than ever." -Rita Munro

On journalism, Rita has written a memoire: A snapshot of life in the depression A story of growing up in the Ottawa valley to share with family

#ElderWisdom

"Patience is so important to going through life." -Rita Munro

"If you can divert your concern into something positive, reaching outside of yourself whenever possible." -Rita Munro

Is there a group you belong to?  (Coffee group, Discussion group)

"People don't retire from gardening, they retire to do gardening." - Erin Davis

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

An exciting episode for you as hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle had the pleasure of hosting a LIVE recording at the Schlegel Villages Operational Planning Conference in Niagara Falls, where we explored the theme of "People, Care, and Quality."

First to join us on the Green Bench is Ann Baxter: Anne is a resident at The Village of Wentworth Heights in the Egerton neighbourhood, where she has come to value the kindness of the team that helps support her, even as her care needs have lessened over time. She values the polite approach of the Village team, and appreciates how everyone takes the time to bring a smile to the faces of all residents, and she has also become a strong support for her fellow residents.

Secondly we invited Tam White and Barb Merkley: Barb first stayed at The Village of Riverside Glen as a temporary measure to convalesce following a medical procedure, and has now lived at The Village of Riverside Glen for nearly eight years. She came to be good friends with Tam when they met at The Center for Innovation’s Ready to Impact Conference in Pittsburg in the summer of 2023. Tam has a long history at Schlegel Villages, first as a Village Team Member before eventually joining the Support Office as a key member of the People Team. Both Barbara and Tam share a combined perspective on how the people who live and work within Schlegel Villages truly do become an extended family.

And third we welcomed Royal Hamel to the green bench: Royal makes his home in Long-term Care at The Village of Winston Park, and he shares his perspective as someone who has faced significant changes in his mobility in recent years. As a retired minister, faith and spirituality are close to Royal’s heart, and this certainly helps shape his world view. For Royal, exceptional support can be found in simple moments in time that connect team members with residents, regardless of the level of care required.

Here are three key takeaways from this insightful episode:

1️⃣ Community and Connection: Our guests, Tam and Barb, shared their inspiring story of how they became fast friends at a conference in Pittsburgh. They emphasized the importance of connecting with people and making anywhere feel like home. Their experience highlights the power of building meaningful relationships and finding a sense of belonging.

2️⃣ Sharing Personal Stories: We were honored to have Anne, Barb, Tam, and Royal join us on stage to share their personal stories in front of 500 people. It takes tremendous courage to open up and share vulnerable experiences, and their willingness to do so is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Their stories served as a reminder of the value of storytelling and the lessons we can learn from one another.

3️⃣ Learning and Growth: Throughout the episode, our co-hosts Evelyn Brindle and Kathy Buckworth expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from our guests and the entire Schlegel Villages community. We believe that every conversation holds the potential for growth and understanding. By actively listening and engaging with others, we can expand our knowledge and perspectives, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

Don't forget to use the hashtag #ElderWisdom when sharing your thoughts on social media. Let's spread the wisdom and insights shared on the Green Bench!

Lastly, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our guests, Ann, Barb, Tam, Royal and everyone who contributed to making this live recording a success. Your stories and experiences have touched our hearts and inspired us all.

Remember, your seat on the Green Bench is always ready and waiting.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #69 - In this enlightening episode, hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome Christine Runstedtler, a resident of The Village of Winston Park in Kitchener. Christine shares her incredible travel adventures, from exploring the arts in Java and Bali to her experiences in China and Thailand.

As a former teacher with over 35 years of experience, Christine reflects on the evolution of education, the importance of teaching the arts, and the value of integrating travel experiences into the classroom. She discusses the significance of extracurricular activities and how they can engage students in meaningful ways.

Tune in to hear Christine's insights on the importance of preserving the arts in our communities and the wisdom she has gained throughout her life. Whether you're a seasoned traveler, an educator, or simply someone who appreciates the stories of our elders, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable lessons.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Episode #47 - A woman who always has a song in her heart surrounded by music her whole life, Angela Willis joins Erin Davis and Doug Robinson from The Village of Taunton Mills in Whitby.  Stories shared about quirky gardening, art, baking, and raising a musical family - with a special tribute from granddaughter and singer, Cadence Grace.

Erin shares a quote from Terry Tempest Williams, “Once upon a time, when women were birds, there was the simple understanding that to sing at dawn and to sing at dusk was to heal the world through joy. The birds still remember what we have forgotten, that the world is meant to be celebrated.”

Angela and Doug share quirky items that were added to their gardens including a bin for goldfish, a BBQ, a cement mixer, a carousel and more.  

"I just planted the flowers in strange things because I liked the look of them." - Angela Willis

Why wouldn't a neighbour take his shoes off?  "Because he was afraid I would plant flowers in them."

Angela was the winner of 'Best large garden' in Scugog

"When you get your garden finished and you sit back and look at it, and you say wow, that was worth it." - Angela Willis

"You enjoy the summer twice as much when you have a beautiful garden." - Doug Robinson

Angela has fulfillment in growing her family tree.  Growing up with music has been such a joy.

A special message to Angela from granddaughter, Cadence Grace, in thanks for the music.

Music feature: Don't by Cadence Grace

More about Cadence Grace and her music at cadencegrace.com

What advice would you give to someone who wants to bring the benefits of music into their lives.

"Sing! Just keep singing.  It makes you feel so good." - Angela Willis

Singing with her husband Jack in the County Town Singers for 20 years.  They toured Europe not long after they joined to share music as Canada's Singing Ambassadors. Her favourite venue to sing in was the Catherdral in York, England.  

Still 70 members in the County Town Singers in the Durham Region.   www.countytownsingers.com

Angela continues to try new things to excel at.  She found an art class and decided to start painting in her 50s.

"You can start anything at any age, anytime." - Angela Willis

Angela tried decorating cakes one day.  She enjoyed it so much that she made all of her children's wedding cakes.  She also loves to bake pies.

She agreed to make a cake to feed 350 people for the 75th anniversary of the cottagers association.  

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Bonus Episode - Erin Davis & Lloyd Hetherington are joined by Jamie Schlegel, President & CEO, on the green bench for a conversation about the Schlegel Villages organization, the differences between public, for-profit, charitable, and municipal long-term care, and the importance of community building.

The Schlegel organization started back in the 1950s by Wilfred & Emma Schlegel, spending their lives in service to people.  Making communities more inclusive, healthier, and allow people to be contributors to their community.  

"The Schlegel Villages mission has two fundamental components; creating a caring community with life purpose for each person." -Jamie Schlegel

The heart of our mission is to build healthy dynamic communities where everyone feels a part of.

"Let's focus on the 10% that isn't going as well as it should and certainly get better at that, but let's also not forget about the 90% that is going well, that we should be acknowledging, building on, and getting even better as a result." -Jamie Schlegel

What is the difference between a long-term care home and a retirement home?

The for-profit vs not-for-profit conversation has been getting lots of attention lately.

• Private/for-profit
• Not-for-profit
• Charitable
• Municipalities

"Let's just focus on doing the absolute best job we can and that's the best way to influence the system."

"The distinctions between private, not-for-profit, charitable, and municipal operators is largely a red herring.  We are talking about distinctions that don't really matter in the end. What matters is the quality of care and the quality of life that is provided within each of these organizations." -Jamie Schlegel

"Our team members deserve the credit for making our Villages a success and for bringing our mission to life." -Jamie Schlegel

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Episode #11 - Turning the spotlight onto a man who is living an exemplary life. A life in education and theology, leading a life in service and now serving up his own wisdom, laughter, questions, and conversations every couple weeks on the green bench as our podcast co-host. 

Listen as we learn a little bit more about Lloyd Hetherington and his life leading up to being part of this podcast.

Lloyd joins us from The Village of Riverside Glen retirement home Guelph. "My life has just blossomed here at The Village of Riverside Glen." -Lloyd Hetherington

Learn about his experience on a move to Zambia where he lived for 11 years. Working with people living with leprosy who got on with living, accepting the situation as it was. "Although I had nothing materially, I had the world around me to get out and enjoy the adventures."

In this episode, we learn about Lloyd's family, his three children, and his grandchildren.  He also shares who he looks up to for wisdom and advice saying, "I have many sources, many springs of knowledge that I drink from."

Podcasting: We love reading the reviews and comments left about the podcast.  Read and leave your thoughts on Apple Podcasts. The topics are endless and timeless, in every #ElderWisdom podcast episode, there are takeaway thoughts for everyone.

Lloyd was also the spotlight of some local media: CTV Kitchener | CBC Radio | GuelphToday

"Times can change, but things like values and  integrity don't have to." -Erin Davis

Lloyd has written a book for himself called 'My Blessings Book' - writing in advice, scriptural blessings, hymns thoughts, and more. 

Here are some thoughts and advice for younger generations. Remember who you are, remember your roots, remember your family, remember your church.  Be alert to the opportunities to be alive in this day in age, grasp the values that are there, grasp the opportunities and go for them.

"We have something to share and it's our obligation to share our experience with others." -Lloyd Hetherington

Passed away peacefully at The Village of Winston Park on Friday February 11th, 2022 in his 87th year.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions  Learn more about our host, Erin Davis, at erindavis.com  Learn more about co-host, Lloyd Hetherington  Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages, retirement & long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada.

Episode #68 - Hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle had the joy of chatting with the remarkable Lillian Parker, a resident at The Village of Riverside Glen in Guelph, who has an extraordinary story to share.

Lillian is a true thrill-seeker. She recently went skydiving and described the experience as "fantastic" and "better than a bird." Even though she broke her ankle upon landing, her enthusiasm for adventure hasn’t dimmed one bit. Lillian shared her lifelong love for flying, having also tried gliding and hot air ballooning. She’s already eyeing her next adventures: helicopter rides and ziplining.

Lillian’s story is about more than just the thrill of skydiving—it’s about inspiring others to step out of their comfort zones. She encourages everyone to seize new experiences, no matter their age. Her adventurous spirit shows that you’re never too old to set new goals or dream new dreams.

We were also joined by Bryce McBain, the General Manager at Riverside Glen, who was instrumental in organizing the skydiving experience. Bryce shared how the idea came from a younger resident’s bucket list and quickly gained traction, leading to 32 residents, team members, and family members taking the plunge over the summer of 2023.

Bryce emphasized that age should never be a barrier to living life to the fullest. He highlighted how such experiences help residents forget their limitations and embrace the joy of living. With the support from the community and the Schlegel Villages team, these adventures became a reality, proving that with the right support, anything is possible.

As we wrapped up the episode, we reflected on the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones and the value of elder wisdom in combating ageism. Lillian’s story is a powerful reminder that life is meant to be lived fully, no matter your age.

Learn more about our partners at Skydive Swoop: www.skydiveswoop.ca

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com