The ESCC is involved in a 3-year collective impact initiative (PEGASIS) that is aiming to reduce rates of social isolation among the senior population in Edmonton. Six organizations are collaborating with ESCC and each other to find new ways of working together to address a range of factors that may lead to social isolation.

As part of this work a baseline survey was completed with 724 Edmonton adults aged 55+ to determine to what extent they feel connected and valued by family and friends and whether they have support and help when they need it. 

Overall, 24% of respondents scored as lonely on a validated loneliness scale, which is a concerning fact. Loneliness is closely associated with social isolation. 42% of respondents wanted to be more active in their communities or everyday life, but common barriers such as cost (26%), health concerns (28%) and not wanting to go alone (26%) prevented them. 

Read more about the results of the baseline survey and contact Tim Henderson at 780-423-5635 ext. 5 if you have questions.

As Canadians age, they face different life challenges and need resources to maintain a mentally healthy life. The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) championed the development of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Seniors, an adaption of the MHFA Basic Course, that is intended to increase the capacity of seniors, families (informal caregivers), friends, staff in care settings and communities to promote mental health in seniors, prevent mental illness and suicide wherever possible in seniors and intervene early when problems first emerge. 

This webinar will share information about MHFA Seniors and how it addresses the unique needs of Canada's population of seniors. Participants will gain a better understanding of how MHFA Seniors can contribute to supporting the mental health of seniors.

National Volunteer Week (NVW) begins April 15th and is a perfect opportunity to recognize volunteers and promote the impact of your volunteer program. You know volunteer recognition is important, so why does it often seem hard to get right?

Join Edmonton volunteer managers in exploring volunteer recognition over some morning coffee. Dive into the power of storytelling and how you can recognize and showcase the value of your volunteers. Register.

The marketplace for nonprofit accounting and financial management software is more competitive than ever. The good news is nonprofits have never had so many useful options. The challenge is sorting them out and finding the system that best meets their needs. This webinar presents findings from an Idealware research report then features a panel discussion to help you understand the landscape of financial management software and how to find the right fit. 

Age-friendly environments is a global emerging trend attracting the interest of all levels of governments, industry, NGOs and academia. In 2017 and 2018 the IFA and WHO presented a series of six webinars on trends and themes relating to age-friendly communities and environments.

• Webinar 1: Establishing Age-Friendly Environments
• Webinar 2: WHO Core Indicators of Age-Friendliness
• Webinar 3: Making communities work for the most vulnerable: What can age-friendly learn from the dementia-friendly movement?
• Webinar 4: Aging 2.0: Improving experiences for older people through technology and innovation
• Webinar 5: Rural and Remote Age-friendly Communities
• Webinar 6: Engaging Planners as Livable Community Allies

The Age Friendly Community Connector will lead communication and stakeholder engagement activities, assist in event planning, and be responsible to plan, organize and implement Age Friendly Edmonton activities.

Review the  job posting for details on the position and application instructions. Submit your resume by midnight on March 16.

The Edmonton Arts Council (EAC), on behalf of the City of Edmonton, is preparing Edmonton's next comprehensive 10-year Arts and Heritage Plan.

 
To create a plan that is truly unique to our city, EAC wants to know your fondest culture memories, the impact of the arts in your community, on your networks or for your cause, and your aspirations for the future of the arts in Edmonton. Share your thoughts about the current state of the arts and heritage, and your vision for the next ten years at a community engagement session.

If you have questions about the Arts & Heritage Plan or any of the engagement sessions, email [email protected].

Bring your family or a friend for the fun! There is a snack bar on site and prices vary. Call 780-433-5807 for more information.

If you have difficulty getting down on a yoga mat but would like to remain fit, come to Chair Yoga. Sitting on a chair, or using a chair for support and balance, you will learn to practice a wide range of yoga poses and thereby develop strength, flexibility, balance, endurance and relaxation. No previous experience of yoga is required. You will not be required to get down on the floor for this class. Register at the WSAC front desk to secure your spot. Call 780-483-1209 for more information.

Don and Lee lived in the small community of Old Crow, Yukon, from 1983 to 1994, followed by two years in Dawson City. They will share some stories about this unique and transforming experience. Phone 780-488-4241 to RSVP.

Sing-a-long cocktail hour at 4:30 p.m., dinner featuring Irish stew and biscuits at 5:30 p.m., fun money casino games including poker and black jack at 6:30 p.m., and fun money live auction at 9:30 p.m. A 50/50 draw and cash bar is available.

Tickets in advance $20 available at the SEESA Front Desk until March 13 or subject to availability. Tickets at the door are $15 and are available starting at 6:30 p.m. for the Fun Casino portion of the evening only and do not include the meal. Call 780-468-1985 for more information.

This informative session is presented by U of A medical students. Call 780-496-2997 to register.

Music to look forward to in March:

• March 7: Diamonds
• March 14: Back Street Affair
• March 21: Sparkling Tones
• March 28: Chwill Brothers

Call 780-496-6969 for more information.

The Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council (ESCC) is currently recruiting to fill positions on our Board of Directors. We are seeking candidates with experience on boards and committees as well as knowledge or experience with diversity (relating to the Aboriginal community, the immigrant community, or the LGBTQ community). We are focusing on the area of diversity as timely and important. We would like to establish better connections as guidance in how services to diverse seniors could be enhanced in the sector. 

Serving on the ESCC Board of Directors is an opportunity to get involved in the broad issues of the sector and to contribute to making Edmonton an Age Friendly city.

Our nominating committee will contact interested individuals and arrange a meeting to answer any questions they may have and to provide information about ESCC and our Board. If you are interested in joining our Board of Directors, return the nomination form to ESCC by March 16.