Kicking off a month of #ElderWisdom

Elder Wisdom Movement Brings Generations Together Across Ontario

Posted by: Kristian Partington | Schlegel Villages June 6, 2025

Sybil Pugh is sitting amid the bustling Whitby Farmer’s Market upon a green bench that has become synonymous with the #ElderWisdom movement. She’s speaking with a boy of maybe 12 – one of a large number of school-aged children who came across the green bench this bright Wednesday morning – and he opens up to her.

Sybil and a student from the Whitby Library sit upon the Green Bench and share a conversation.

He speaks of his ambitions to find a path through the arts into his future, and also his anxieties about the worthiness of such a goal.

“Such worries for being just a boy,” Sybil says, recounting the conversation afterwards. She offered words of encouragement and perhaps a sense of permission from the perspective of someone who has lived a long life; someone who followed her own ambitions from the rural farmlands of North Wales to Canada and eventually to the bench on this bright June day.

That such depth could come through in such a short time may seem surprising, but then the #ElderWisdom movement is all about conversation and connection. It bridges generations by inviting people to recognize that the oldest neighbours in our communities carry within them tales of perseverance and practical advice gleaned from lives of trial, tribulation and triumph.

Between Sybil and her neighbour from The Village of Taunton Mills, Wilf Bradnock, dozens of short conversations and some long ones take place over the course of three hours while market-goers pass by on their way to stalls filled with local honey, produce, baked goods and hot sauce.

Evelyn shares conversation with a young student from John Fraser Secondary School.

Students on placement in the Dundas St. library where the market is held every Wednesday take their seat upon the bench, while other older adults come by just to chat.  

A retired photojournalist named AJ takes in the scene and considers the value in the #ElderWisdom movement.  

“This connects the older with the younger, and that is an answer that we need to follow,” AJ says. “We need that communication to bring the two together.”

Evelyn Dithurbide was among four residents from The Village of Erin Meadows to kick off a month of #ElderWisdom when they brought the green benches to visit their neighbours at John Fraser Secondary School in Mississauga, the day before the Whitby event.

Students from Grades 10, 11 and 12 were fascinated by the stories of Evelyn’s youth in rural Cape Breton, and she was encouraged by their energy and their plans for the future.

“A couple of them, they’re real students,” she recalls, mentioning one who has ambitions to study in the medical field. “They have a purpose and they have such energy.”

Student gather alongside their four guests from The Village of Erin Meadows for a group photo.

Questions of love and dating came up as well, and Evelyn mentions a conversation with a young lady in Grade 11.

“She was a little bit quiet and she said, ‘I have something different to talk to you about,’ ” Evelyn says. “ ‘How was it when you were growing up; how was dating?’ ”

Evelyn’s response was tactful. She told the young lady it must still be the same, as it boils down to two people coming together, and seeing if they can get along and if so, letting things slowly evolve from there.

“That’s how it was when I was 16 . . . but I didn’t know how far to go with that conversation,” Evelyn says with a chuckle.

Throughout the month of June in cities across Ontario, the Green Bench will feature prominently in public spaces and the simple message will continue to spread, reminding us all to slow down and take a moment to learn about the older people in our lives.

Celebrating 10 Years of #ElderWisdom

Since 2016, the #ElderWisdom Green Bench has travelled across Ontario as a powerful symbol to combat ageism. It invites people of all ages to slow down, take a seat, and connect through meaningful conversation with a senior.

What started with a single bench has grown into a national campaign—bridging generations in parks, libraries, art galleries, city halls, and classrooms.


2016 – The Beginning

The Green Bench made its debut in 13 Ontario communities. Residents like Joan sat at Kitchener City Hall to share their stories with passersby. Each Schlegel Village received its own bench—built and painted with care by residents and team members.

“A simple bench became a powerful invitation: sit, listen, and connect.”


2017 – Classroom Connections

In a single day, 80 residents visited 16 schools and shared their stories with more than 500 students. The conversations created space for learning, empathy, and mutual respect.

“That was the best history lesson I’ve ever had.” — Student, Guelph


2018–2019 – Going Public

The Green Bench appeared at Pride festivals, farmers markets, and community events. In Trinity Bellwoods Park, a video clip of a senior’s advice went viral on CBC—reaching millions across Canada. In Brampton, Audrey’s bench conversation led to her being featured in the Peel Regional Police Safe Seniors campaign.

“Don’t sweat the small stuff.” – Don, Trinity Bellwoods


2020–2021 – Going Digital

When public gatherings paused, the Green Bench found a new voice—online. The ElderWisdom: Stories from the Green Bench podcast launched with hosts Erin Davis and Lloyd Hetherington, bringing stories to listeners around the world.

Resident Barry Hickling joined WeTech Alliance as an intern, and the campaign earned the Pioneer Network’s Community Commitment Award.

“Wisdom doesn’t retire. It evolves.”


2022 – Returning to Community Spaces

The Green Bench returned to parks and plazas across Ontario. From Nathan Phillips Square to the Hamilton Waterfront, residents hosted over 100 hours of conversation with the public. A mural was unveiled at Taunton Mills, and the inaugural “Wisdom of the Elder” Bench was gifted to Newmarket Health Centre in honour of Sharron Cooke.

“What starts on the bench ripples into the community.”


2023 – Passions in Focus

Photographer Christine Kufske captured 28 stunning portraits of residents for the Pursuit of Passions x ElderWisdom exhibit. Their passions, stories, and wisdom were displayed in Villages and at conferences.

That summer, the podcast hosted a live taping in front of 500 people in Niagara Falls.

“Every person has a story. We help them share it.”


2024 – Libraries & Lasting Bonds

The Green Bench visited 13 libraries across Ontario. One memorable encounter in Tecumseh saw Cecile, 83, meet Matthew, 13. Their connection—sparked by a love of Disney—grew into a beautiful, intergenerational friendship featured by CBC.

The Essex County Library received its own Green Bench to continue hosting conversations for years to come.

“She’s one cool grandma.” – Matthew


Looking Ahead: Our 10th Anniversary Year

In 2025, we continue the journey—visiting hometowns and dream destinations with our residents, and bringing the Green Bench to more communities than ever before.

As we celebrate 10 years, one truth stands out:

“Our elders have wisdom to share, and our communities are richer when we take the time to listen.”

Let’s keep the conversation going.

Explore 2025 Events & Get Involved

Advice for a Changing World

Insights from Elders on Adapting to Technological, Societal, and Environmental Shifts

The world is evolving at a breathtaking pace, with advancements in technology, shifts in societal norms, and the growing urgency of environmental concerns reshaping how we live, work, and connect. In the face of these changes, the wisdom of older generations remains an invaluable guide. Their experiences navigating life’s uncertainties offer timeless lessons on resilience, adaptability, and hope. Here, we delve into insights from elders on how to thrive in an ever-changing world.

1. Embrace Lifelong Learning

“You’re never too old to learn something new,” says Margaret, 84, who recently started using a tablet to stay in touch with her family. Many elders emphasize the importance of curiosity and adaptability when faced with change. From mastering new technologies to adopting fresh perspectives, their stories remind us that learning is a continuous journey.

Practical Tip: Start small. Whether it’s learning a new app, exploring an online course, or engaging in a hobby, incremental progress builds confidence and capability.

2. Find Strength in Community

For many elders, navigating change is easier when supported by a community. “During the Great Depression, we had to lean on each other to get through tough times,” recalls Tom, 91. The power of collective effort—whether through family, neighbours, or shared initiatives—remains a cornerstone for weathering societal shifts.

Practical Tip: Foster connections in your own community. Join local groups, volunteer, or simply reach out to a neighbour to strengthen social ties and build resilience.

3. Value What Truly Matters

Technological advances have revolutionized how we live, but elders caution against losing sight of life’s essentials. “The most important things aren’t things at all,” shares Anne, 78. “Relationships, kindness, and gratitude never go out of style.” This perspective provides a grounding force amid the rapid changes of modern life.

Practical Tip: Dedicate time to nurture relationships and practice gratitude daily. A handwritten note, a heartfelt conversation, or a moment of reflection can create lasting impact.

4. Adapt, Don’t Resist

Change can be intimidating, but resisting it often leads to greater stress. “When the world changes, you have to change with it,” advises James, 86. Elders who’ve lived through monumental societal shifts, from civil rights movements to technological revolutions, remind us that adaptability is key to staying relevant and finding peace.

Practical Tip: Identify aspects of change that excite or inspire you. Focusing on potential opportunities rather than losses can help shift your mindset.

5. Be a Steward of the Earth

“We didn’t think much about the environment when I was young, but now we see the cost,” reflects Edna, 82. Many elders have witnessed the impact of environmental changes firsthand and stress the importance of sustainable living for future generations.

Practical Tip: Incorporate small but meaningful eco-friendly habits, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting local, sustainable businesses. Your efforts contribute to a larger collective impact.

6. Stay Grounded in Hope

Through wars, recessions, and personal hardships, many elders have learned to hold onto hope as a guiding principle. “This too shall pass,” says Marie, 90. “The world has a way of finding balance.” Their optimism encourages us to focus on possibilities rather than problems.

Practical Tip: Maintain a positive outlook by celebrating small wins and focusing on what you can control. Share uplifting stories and moments of joy to inspire others.

Wisdom for the Future

As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, the voices of our elders remind us that the tools for thriving—curiosity, community, adaptability, and hope—are timeless. By integrating their wisdom into our lives, we honour their experiences while preparing ourselves for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Take a moment to sit down with an elder in your life. Ask about their stories, their lessons, and their advice for navigating today’s world. You might be surprised by how much their perspective can shift your own.

Are you ready to embrace the wisdom of those who have walked before us? Let’s start the conversation today.


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. 

Essex County Trains its Focus on the Wisdom of the Region’s Elders

October 23, 2024

Essex County, ON – The Essex County Library has taken another step forward in its effort to highlight the wealth of wisdom found in the lived experience of the oldest generations in the region. In partnership with Long-Term Care and Retirement Living provider Schlegel Villages, the library has installed an #ElderWisdom Green Bench at the LaSalle Branch – a symbol to remind visitors that seniors deserve a place of reverence in our communities.

The #ElderWisdom campaign began in 2015 with Green Benches popping up in prominent locations across Ontario during Seniors Month. The idea was to encourage passersby to take a moment to sit and share conversation with an elder, often a resident from a Schlegel Village. The focus in June, 2024, was library settings, and the Essex County Library was fully committed as soon as the invitation to participate came along.

Manuela Denes, Manager of Community Relations with Essex County Library, says expanding outreach programs and opportunities to engage with older adults has been a priority for the organization. The Green Bench and what it represents tied in perfectly, and she says events in June hosted at the Tecumseh and LaSalle Branches were so successful that making the concept permanent was a logical extension.

“Libraries are filled with stories and information, either on the printed or digital page,” Denes says. “How wonderful that they can also be a safe space for people of all ages and backgrounds to come and sit for a while to listen to someone share their stories in person.”

Schlegel Villages founder Ron Schlegel is humbled to know that an idea he had more than a decade ago has grown and planted its roots in communities across the country, such as Fredericton, New Brunswick, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and now Essex County, where the bench will be featured at branches throughout the seven municipalities that make up the county.

“Through all my life, I’ve always learned from the older generations I grew up with, and I still learn from them today,” Schlegel says, noting that now in his early 80s, he’s among the seniors he once looked up to. “Every older person has a unique perspective on the world to share, and our communities grow stronger and more connected when we honour the perspectives of others.”

For more information, visit www.elderwisdom.ca and take a moment to commit to the #ElderWisdom pledge: 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.

Celebrating the Wisdom of the Elder: A Treasure Trove of Experience and Insight

In a world that often prioritizes the new and the innovative, it is essential to pause and recognize the profound value that comes from the wisdom of our elders. Their life experiences, knowledge, and perspectives offer a treasure trove of insights that can guide us in our personal and professional lives. Celebrating the wisdom of the elder is not just about respect; it’s about tapping into a rich resource that benefits individuals and communities alike.

The Importance of Elder Wisdom

1. A Source of Guidance and Inspiration

Elders have navigated the complexities of life, facing challenges and celebrating triumphs that younger generations can learn from. Their stories of resilience, perseverance, and adaptability serve as powerful examples and sources of inspiration.

2. Preserving Cultural and Historical Knowledge

Our elders are the keepers of cultural traditions and historical narratives. By listening to their stories, we preserve these important elements of our heritage and gain a deeper understanding of our roots and identities.

3. Bridging Generational Gaps

Celebrating elder wisdom helps bridge the gap between generations. It fosters mutual respect and understanding, creating a more cohesive and inclusive society. Younger generations learn patience and empathy, while elders feel valued and respected.

4. Enhancing Personal Growth

Engaging with elder wisdom can significantly enhance personal growth. Their life lessons can provide guidance in making important decisions, managing relationships, and navigating career paths.

Ways to Celebrate Elder Wisdom

1. Create Opportunities for Storytelling

Encourage elders to share their stories in community gatherings, family reunions, or through digital platforms. Storytelling is a powerful way to transmit knowledge and connect people across generations.

2. Organize Intergenerational Programs

Programs that bring together people of different ages, such as the #ElderWisdom initiative, foster meaningful connections and allow for the exchange of wisdom. These can be community events, mentorship programs, or collaborative projects.

3. Honor Their Contributions

Publicly recognizing the contributions of elders in community events, through awards, or in local media, reinforces their importance and celebrates their achievements.

4. Encourage Family Connections

Families can create traditions that honor elder wisdom, such as regular visits, shared meals, or documenting family histories together. This not only strengthens family bonds but also ensures that valuable knowledge is passed down.

5. Utilize Digital Platforms

In today’s digital age, there are numerous ways to celebrate elder wisdom online. Create blogs, social media pages, or podcasts dedicated to sharing their stories and advice. This broadens the reach and impact of their insights.

Practical Tips for Engaging with Elders

1. Listen Actively

When engaging with elders, practice active listening. Show genuine interest in their stories and ask thoughtful questions. This demonstrates respect and encourages them to share more openly.

2. Be Patient and Respectful

Recognize that elders may have different communication styles and pace. Be patient and give them the time they need to express themselves fully.

3. Value Their Experience

Acknowledge the value of their experiences and insights. Even if their perspectives differ from yours, understand that their views are shaped by a lifetime of unique experiences.

4. Create Comfortable Environments

Ensure that the settings for conversations with elders are comfortable and conducive to open dialogue. This can be in a quiet, familiar space with minimal distractions.

5. Encourage Participation

Encourage elders to participate in community and family activities. Their involvement enriches these events and underscores their ongoing importance in society.

Conclusion

Celebrating the wisdom of the elder is a meaningful way to honor those who have paved the way before us. Their experiences, stories, and insights offer invaluable lessons that can guide us through our own journeys. By creating opportunities for storytelling, organizing intergenerational programs, and recognizing their contributions, we not only celebrate their wisdom but also enrich our own lives and communities. Let’s take the time to listen, learn, and appreciate the profound value that our elders bring to the world.

Sign the #ElderWisdom pledge. Together, let’s bridge the generational gap and cherish the treasure trove of knowledge that our elders provide.

Celebrating #ElderWisdom Throughout the Month of June

9th Annual Series of Event Invites Ontarians to Sit alongside Seniors in their Community and Reconnect with the Wisdom of our Elders

ONTARIO, May 29, 2024: As Ontario marks Seniors Month for June 2024, the organizers of the #ElderWisdom campaign are inviting community members and younger generations across Ontario to engage with older adults and discover the wealth of knowledge, talent and experience they have to offer.

The campaign was first launched in 2016 based on the vision of Ron Schlegel – a humble philanthropist, an urban developer with a unique vision of community, a visionary in health and long-term care and a hard-working farmer, all tied into one brilliant and cheerful package. He is an elder in society with a wealth of wisdom to impart, but perhaps one of his greatest specialties is his understanding of elderhood.

Mr. Schlegel is the founder of Schlegel Villages, a collection of 18 long-term care and retirement communities across southern Ontario that embraces basic values of family and community. His vision of a social model of living to counter the institutionalization of long-term care continues to expand, and that vision is certainly inspired by the experiences he had as a child working with older adults in their final years.

“The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world,” Mr. Schlegel once said “is the collective wisdom of our elders.”

It is this thought that grew into the #ElderWisdom campaign, which throughout Senior’s Month in June the past eight years has reminded community members of the value that older adults have in lived experience.  Throughout June, the green bench will appear in local libraries or in a few specific cases, Villages will host events. Residents from our Villages will be there upon the benches and the community is invited to sit and share conversation.

“It’s sad to say but agism seems to be the last acceptable form of prejudice in our society,” says Ted Hudson, one of the key organizers of the campaign, “but when younger people get past the stereotypes that come with getting older and just sit and talk with an elder, those ageist barriers break down. That’s what makes the #ElderWisdom campaign so special and it’s amazing to see the conversation spread.”

The opportunity to sit with older adults for a little while during this specific campaign reminds us all of the value to be found in such depth of experience, and encourages people to see past the stereotypical views that follow aging to see that, in the minds and hearts of seniors, much remains on offer.

Media Contact:

Ted Hudson
Ted.Hudson@schlegelvillages.com
519-496-5984

Kristian Partington
Kristian.Partington@schlegelvillages.com
705-313-0472

Events and Locations:

  • Tuesday, June 4th – Burlington Public Library
  • Saturday, June 8th – Essex County Library, Tecumseh
  • Saturday, June 8th – London Public Library
  • Monday, June 10thMississauga Library
  • Tuesday, June 11th – St. Jean de Brebeuf Catholic Secondary School, Hamilton
  • Tuesday, June 18th – The Village of Humber Heights, Etobicoke
  • Wednesday, June 19th – Whitby Public Library
  • Thursday, June 20th – The Village of Sandalwood Park, Brampton
  • Saturday, June 22nd – Essex County Library, Windsor
  • Saturday, June 22nd – Waterloo Public Library
  • Monday, June 24th – Guelph Public Library
  • Tuesday, June 25th – Barrie Public Library
  • Tuesday, June 25th – Kitchener Public Library

Click here for more information in our #ElderWisdom toolkit or visit elderwisdom.ca

About Schlegel Villages: Schlegel Villages is a leading seniors’ living and care provider in Ontario. Schlegel Villages designs, builds and operates village-style retirement communities with their signature main street and town square designs and which include independent apartments, retirement living, assisted care, memory care and long-term care.

The Importance of Intergenerational Connections and Tips for Building Relationships

Intergenerational connections are vital for fostering a sense of community, understanding, and mutual respect between different age groups.

These relationships bring together the energy and fresh perspectives of youth with the wisdom and experience of seniors, creating a rich tapestry of shared knowledge and support. In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, nurturing these connections is more important than ever.

Why Intergenerational Connections Matter

  1. Cultural Continuity: Seniors carry with them a wealth of cultural traditions, stories, and historical knowledge. Sharing these with younger generations helps preserve cultural heritage and fosters a sense of identity and belonging.
  2. Mutual Learning: Interactions between youth and seniors provide opportunities for mutual learning. Youth can learn practical life skills, wisdom, and historical context from seniors, while seniors can gain insights into modern technology and contemporary cultural trends from youth.
  3. Emotional Support: Intergenerational relationships can combat loneliness and social isolation, especially among seniors. For youth, these connections offer mentorship and guidance, contributing to emotional and psychological well-being.
  4. Breaking Stereotypes: Engaging with different age groups helps break down age-related stereotypes and prejudices, promoting a more inclusive and understanding society.

Tips for Building Intergenerational Relationships

Building strong intergenerational relationships requires effort, empathy, and an open mind. Here are some practical tips for both youth and seniors to foster these valuable connections:

For Youth:
  1. Show Respect and Patience: Approach seniors with respect and patience. Understand that they may have different ways of communicating and different perspectives shaped by their experiences.
  2. Ask Questions and Listen: Show genuine interest in their stories and experiences. Ask open-ended questions and listen actively, demonstrating that you value their insights.
  3. Share Your Knowledge: Offer to teach seniors about new technologies or contemporary trends. This can be a fun and educational exchange, allowing both parties to learn something new.
  4. Volunteer Together: Participate in community activities or volunteer programs that bring different age groups together. This creates a shared purpose and common ground for building relationships.
For Seniors:
  1. Be Open-Minded: Embrace the curiosity and enthusiasm of youth. Be open to learning from them and exploring new ideas and technologies.
  2. Share Your Stories: Don’t hesitate to share your life experiences, wisdom, and skills. Your stories are valuable and can provide important lessons and inspiration for younger generations.
  3. Engage in Shared Activities: Find common interests or hobbies that you can enjoy together. This could be anything from gardening to cooking to playing games.
  4. Offer Mentorship: Provide guidance and support to youth, whether it’s through formal mentorship programs or informal interactions. Your advice and experience can make a significant impact on their lives.

Intergenerational connections enrich our communities and our lives, fostering a culture of respect, learning, and mutual support. By making a conscious effort to build and maintain these relationships, both youth and seniors can benefit from the shared wisdom and energy that comes from bridging the generational gap. Let’s work together to create a world where every generation feels valued, heard, and connected.

For more information on fostering intergenerational connections and to get involved in community programs like the #ElderWisdom Green Bench Community Visits, visit our event page.

#ElderWisdom: Stories from the Green Bench Goes Live – Podcast Guests Discuss Exceptional Care

Early on the second day of the Schlegel Villages 2023 Operational Planning retreat in Niagara Falls, a special panel of residents and a team member take their place alongside podcast hosts Evelyn Brindle and Kathy Buckworth. This unique panel comes together just as #Elderwisdom: Stories from the Green Bench reaches a milestone of 100,000 downloads – the perfect time for a live podcast recording. The audience of 500 people gathered in the convention centre are eager to hear the discussion about what it means to provide high-quality care in a senior’s living environment.  

“We are diving into what makes exceptional care, how people and relationships make an impact, and what people and care do for the quality of long-term care and retirement living at Schlegel Villages,” Kathy explains as she sets the stage. As co-host and a resident at the Village of Erin Meadows with her husband, Evelyn is the first to weigh in before welcoming the first guest, Ann Baxter, who lives in the Egerton Neighbourhood at The Village of Wentworth Heights.

“I visited a number of retirement homes before we moved into Erin Meadows,” Evelyn explains. “We found that the majority of them had a very lovely decorated main floor, but there were no people.”

“Whenever I’m in Erin Meadows, whether walking through the main street or in the elevator, I’m always greeted with a smile and often by name from many of the residents and the staff,” she continues. “People are everywhere and they’re enjoying the variety of programs and activities that are available.”

Indeed, it is in relationships that the foundation of quality care is formed, and Ann’s relationships with the team members at Wentworth Heights are strong enough that she jokes about wanting to adopt them. Their gentleness and compassion, even when offering intimate supports, is unwavering.

“One thing that really struck me, talking to a couple of the helpers where I live, each one individually said they considered their time, they didn’t say job, they said their time there is a vocation,” Anne shares. “I thought, that’s absolutely beautiful. It isn’t a job or a task, but it is a vocation.”

Anne is followed by Riverside Glen resident Barb Merkley and Tamara White, who works with the People Team at the Schlegel Villages Support Office. Theirs is a story of connectedness that illustrates how people of any age can find true friendship, just as they did while travelling to Pittsburg for a conference with several other Schlegel ambassadors. Barb also shares the story of how she arrived at Riverside Glen for a short stay following a medical procedure; she was instantly made to feel comfortable, so she chose to make her home there. Like Ann, Barb says the team is what made that sense of comfort so strong, and the third podcast guest, Royal Hamel, zeroed in in that same theme in his remarks.

Royal was struck with sudden illness that robbed him of his mobility and he urgently needed the support of a long-term care setting. He says he was blessed when he was placed at The Village of Winston Park. Royal’s insights are profound, and he speaks of the importance of residents acknowledging the team members when they see or feel those exceptional care moments.

He admits to being nervous when he first moved to the Village, because he wasn’t sure what the care would be like. Not long after arriving, however, he saw what compassion looks like in the interactions of a young personal support worker with a fellow resident. He later tracked the team member down to share his thoughts with her.

“She is a person who not only gives effective care,” Royal explains, recounting that conversation, “she gives affective care and she reaches out with compassion just in a natural way.” When he shared his insights with the young PSW, she teared up with gratitude.

As he wraps up the discussion on exceptional care in this live podcast recording, he offers some advice to the leaders in the room about what to look for in new team members.

“I think when people are hiring a person,” he says, “they should deliberately and specifically look for compassion.”

True compassion and genuine, meaningful connection are the key ingredients for exceptional care, and who better than the residents themselves to offer such valuable insights. Subscribe and listen to this episode and more on Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon Music and wherever you listen to podcasts.

Celebrating the Wisdom of our Elders During Senior’s Month

By Kristian Partington, June 29, 2023

June is Senior’s Month in Canada and in honour of the oldest generations who helped shape the nation, a Mississauga retirement home was transformed into a gallery showcasing the “Pursuit of Passions” that have guided 29 Ontario seniors throughout life.

The Village of Erin Meadows hosted the event, which featured elegant, museum-quality photographs of the residents of long-term care and retirement homes, along with short stories about their passions. The event is one of a series that coincides with a month-long campaign to combat ageism and celebrate the wisdom of the elder.

“Throughout my lifetime, I have learned so much from my connections with seniors,” says Ron Schlegel, the 80-year-old founder of Schlegel Villages, which owns and operates The Village of Erin Meadows. His passion for community building was one of the featured passions.

“Their wisdom and experience are the greatest of resources our nation holds, and we must take every opportunity we can to learn from our elderly generations,” says Schlegel.

One of the featured speakers was Evelyn Brindle, a resident at Erin Meadows who cohosts a podcast called #ElderWisdom: Stories from the Green Bench. The podcast features poignant interviews with seniors about their lives and has had close to 100,000 downloads since its first episode aired in mid-2020.

“It has turned out to be an interesting and enlightening experience,” Brindle says of the podcast. “One thing that stands out . . . is the amazing wealth of experience, knowledge, interests, and passions that every resident we interview brought to our discussions. “They certainly dispel any of the stereotypes that might be held against older people.”

Sheref Sabawy, M.P.P. for Mississauga-Erin Mills, also attended the event and he says taking the time to visit a senior’s community is not only about honouring the seniors but also hearing their opinions and learning from them.

“We’re celebrating seniors,” Sabawy says, “and we’re looking to seniors. It’s a good opportunity for us to communicate . . . and try to get our compass correct with what seniors’ needs are.”

Sabawy’s colleague, Brampton North M.P.P. Graham McGregor agreed that ageism is something everyone must be aware of, and we can combat it by listening to the experiences seniors offer.

“A lot of people in society find it easy to dismiss the views of our aging population,” McGregor says, “but we need to remember that Canada was built by our seniors and they’ve got some of the best, if not the best, views on what we need to be doing.

“An event like this where we’re explicitly celebrating seniors is so important,” he adds.

A Celebration of Passion and Wisdom

Jun 03, 2023 / Village Voice Posted by: Kristian Partington

Their passions are wide and varied. From motorcycles and magic to social justice and neuroscience.  

As Schlegel Villages marked the beginning of Seniors Month, the Village at University Gates was focused on the wisdom, experience and passion our oldest generations offer the world around them. All along the Village’s Main Street, a series of 29 exquisite photos highlighted the passion that guides some of the residents of Schlegel Villages.  

Guest chatting with residents who sits beside her photo in the exhibit

This was the first of a series of events across the province that celebrates the incredible stories and wisdom of residents who call a Schlegel Village home, but it is much more than that. It is an opportunity to combat ageism, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive society that values and cherishes the experiences and contributions of our elders. 

As Ron Schlegel, the founder of Schlegel Villages, addressed the large crowd gathered in the Village’s Town Square, he spoke of his passion for community building and creating space where neighbours and friends converge and foster the relationships that keep a society strong. He also spoke of the responsibility older adults have to share their wisdom and recognize the role they have in inspiring the next generations. 

“Every one of us has a unique story,” Ron said, addressing the residents of University Gates and, indeed, all the seniors of our communities. “There’s wisdom in every story and we need to get out there and share it.” 

Bob & Emily hold up sweatshirt during speech

Emily and Bob Leland live at University Gates. From their suite upon the 8th Floor, they look northward to the Laurel Creek Conservation Area, and they spoke of their passion for the outdoors. They spoke of their passion for ongoing education in history, geology, theology, and music.  

They spoke of their passion for each other.  

In each of the 29 displays in this unique gallery, which will travel to four other locations throughout the month, we see individual beauty and dedication honed over lifetime upon lifetime.  

We see passion, wisdom, and strength, and all our older generations can offer the world around us.   

Here are the upcoming events: 

  • June 8th at The Village of Taunton Mills, Whitby 
    Doors open at 2:00 pm, formal agenda at 3:00 pm 
  • June 14th at The Village at St. Clair, Windsor 
    Doors open at 2:30 pm, formal agenda at 4:00 pm 
  • June 21st at The Village of Erin Meadows, Mississauga 
    Doors open at 2:30 pm, formal agenda at 3:30 pm 
  • June 29th at The Art Gallery of Hamilton 
    Doors open at 2:00 pm, formal agenda at 4:00 pm 

Visit the webpage here for more information.  

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