STS Outreach, Winter 2024

WI N TE R 2024 • VO LUME 47

A New Coaching Adventure PAGE 4

Benefits of Pet Ownership PAGE 10

Fun Is Where You Make It! PAGE 12

 Denise Schmidt

Outreach Importance of Social Wellbeing PAGE 7

Message from the President WRITTEN BY: SUE AMUNDRUD

It has been mostly easy to take for granted the connections we have with family, work colleagues and friends – but as we age, many members of our family and friends’ circles have passed on.

After retirement, we may lose regular contact with former colleagues who were an important part of our social network.

In the Retirement Lifestyles Planning sessions offered by the STS, we emphasize the importance of developing and maintaining social networks post-retirement.

Lisa Berkman, director of the Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies cites studies that have suggested that social

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and/or Group Benefits coverage,

All articles in Outreach represent the information and opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the STS. Reminders STS Group Benefit Plan holders who are eligible for the

please contact the STS Office directly at 306-373-3879 or email sts@sts.sk.ca.

Have a story idea or a topic you would like us to include? We’d love to hear from you. Reach us at sts@sts.sk.ca.

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Kevin Schmidt

premium by providing the STS Office with a copy of the Seniors’ Drug Plan confirmation letter. For information on the Saskatchewan Seniors’ Drug Plan, please speak with your pharmacist or contact the Seniors’ Drug Plan office at 1-800-667-7581. If you live in Regina please call 306-787-3317.

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isolation carries a risk of mortality similar to that of other major risk factors, such as smoking.

Our experiences during the COVID pandemic definitely brought home our need for connections.

Many of the complaints I heard (and made!) during those years had to do with being unable to spend time in person with family and friends.

I certainly remember being very grateful that my husband was still with me and that we had the company of our two dogs who insisted on daily walks in the fresh air. Singles were encouraged to create their own “bubble” with one other single person in an effort to curb some of the effects of the required isolation, but not everyone was able to do that. Even though we were already vaguely aware that some people were “lonely”, we began to become much more aware of the problem of loneliness and its impact on people.

I hope you find these articles informative and that you will develop your own ways to reach out to address the issues of social isolation and loneliness for yourself and others. ●

In this Issue

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UST LIKE THAT, we are into our winter season! Thinking about winter also makes me consider more closely some of the information that is shared in this issue of Outreach – primarily the importance of social networks and the issue of loneliness, particularly among older adults.

Member Photographs

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The Adventure of Generative Aging

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A New Coaching Adventure

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Strength in Community: Supporting Canada's Older Adults

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Social Wellbeing

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The Benefits of Pet Ownership for Older People

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Fun Is Where You Make It!

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Book Review: The Inspired Journey of Retirement

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Loneliness and Older Canadians

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Is This True?

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Events

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WINTER 2024 • Volume 47 Member Photographs

 Margaret Symon-Lungal

Member Photographs

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ELOW IS A selection of photos by members of the STS. Do you have a photograph, idea or a topic you would like us to include? We’d love to hear from you. You can reach us at sts@sts.sk.ca.

 Rene Goertzen

 Norman Kehler

 Laine Slowski

 Wayne Busch

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 Donna McTavish

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The Adventure of Generative Aging

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WRITTEN BY: DON ROBERTSON

ERHAPS YOU HAVE SEEN THEM? A cartoon caricature of aging that renders us oldsters as wrinkled, crotchety and not much good for anything at all. A study on ageism by the UN World Health Organization only serves to provide evidence for such portrayals. Fifty-two percent of the world’s population, the study reports, are ageist with attitudes describing old persons as ‘a burden and useless’ not to mention ‘sexless and sick.’ Such a pervasive devaluing of older persons is always in danger of becoming internalized such that we who are in the ‘later life’ category might think of ourselves as in a state of decline, leaving the most worthwhile of who we are to be a resident of an earlier life. Just as the evils of racism and sexism need to be confronted, so must we actively resist this ageist narrative whenever and wherever it might find expression.

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I have been pondering the challenges of active resistance, and my reflections guided me to create a resource to support all older persons in actively resisting the pervasive issue of ageism.

The resource entitled “Generative Aging: Let Go and Begin Anew” speaks of aging as a workin-progress where we, as older persons, learn, comprehend, and change. ‘Generative’ speaks of creating fresh and often surprising content that supports our individual resistance as it comes from within us.

Generative aging is itself a deep running desire to be creative in the days of our aging.

I began the resource by asking what I call, ‘generative questions’. To guide participants, I offer questions asked by Cordelia in Aiden Chamber’s book, The Pillow Book of Cordelia Kenn. Questions like: “Will the ‘I’ that is ‘me’ grow and widen and deepen, or will I stagnate and become an arid riverbed?” “Will I be defined by the definition others give to me or will I make sure I flow freely as a river, coursing my way through the land and ploughing a valley of my own?” “Will I simply grow older and older, or will I embrace an aging that is questing and exploratory?” Living such questions as these creates a vital connection to an aging that is generative. Consider living such a generative question at the very beginning of the day to set intention for the day. It needs to be a question that can loosen the structured experience of time – the appointments, the obligations, the deadlines – and wedge the door open to “What am I going to do with my life today?” Think of our elder years as being lived in response to truly generative questions being asked. “And so long as we continue asking,” writes Kristin Lin “we’ll continue to discover and create.”

A close cousin to living the questions is the generative nature of curiosity. “Curiosity,” said Albert Einstein, “has its own reason for existing.”

Curiosity has an unknown destination and can take us quite beyond where we are now, which is both the upside and downside of curiosity. We have heard the idiom that curiosity killed the cat.

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It has been said, however, that “old age begins when curiosity ends”. It might be time to check your curiosity quotient.

A third addition to this generative aging family of ‘questions’ and ‘curiosity’ is ‘imagination’. Just as the poet sees “heaven in a grain of sand and eternity in an hour”, perhaps we too can see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Might I also suggest that generative aging calls out for an elder’s imagination which envisions a more just, a more peaceable, world. As elders, we have imaginative potential to offer to the generation coming along behind us. In a moment of contemplation simply ask, “What if …?”

Generative aging is itself a deep running desire to be creative in the days of our aging. It is an inner desire that emanates from the heart and is intentional, deliberate, and requires commitment.

It is wisely said by writer Julia Cameron that “if we lose our inner commitment the cost rapidly becomes apparent in the outer world.” Such a commitment can be shared and the aging journey enriched in immeasurable ways when people come together around a common desire for an aging that is, indeed, generative. “Generative Aging: Let Go and Begin Anew” offers guidance on such a journey.

Very much needed are timely and energetic conversations to resist ageism. Consider accessing the report on ageism by the UN World Health Organization to inform such conversations. It is important to talk about the incredible loss to the world that results from the marginalization and dehumanization of older persons. Strategies to resist and to combat ageism are urgently needed.

Ageism comes at us from the ‘outside, in’.

Resistance through generative aging is from the ‘inside, out’. Questions! Curiosity! Imagination!

An inside job!

Here‘s to our generative aging adventure!

Don Robertson, a resident of Vancouver, is a retired Minister of the United of Church Canada which he served for 36 years. In his retirement he volunteered in Vancouver’s inner city, and he is currently leading a variety of study groups on aging. Don recently wrote a widely used resource to facilitate the discussion on aging. The resource is available, without charge, at: Generative Aging: Let Go and Begin Anew. ●

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Volunteering

A New Coaching Adventure I

WRITTEN BY: BRUCE LAURIE

N MY RETIREMENT, I've reflected on some of the most fulfilling moments in teaching, and coaching stands out as a highlight. Throughout my years, I coached volleyball, basketball, track, and curling teams. Upon retiring to Vancouver Island, I resumed curling, finding it enjoyable, but desiring more engagement.

Moving to Campbell River during the COVID-19 pandemic brought about a sense of isolation.

The pandemic's stifling impact motivated me to become more involved in the community. One day, a gentleman using his white cane approached me at the rink seeking assistance. Kelvin Adams, despite being blind, expressed great enthusiasm for trying curling. He was in search of a coach and inquired if I knew someone who could help initiate Blind Curling. This was the start of a great friendship.

Only one member of our team had experience with curling before, but now they all find joy in the sport.

While I possessed coaching experience, Blind Curling was an entirely new challenge for me.

I conducted research on Blind Curling through Google and sought advice from coaches with experience in this specialized sport. This marked the beginning of a transformative journey.

Taking on the role of coach for the team opened up an entirely new world for both my wife and me. While instructing the curlers presented its own set of challenges, I applied the principles I had honed over 40 years of teaching. Each individual required a personalized approach based on their abilities.

Adapting to the unique needs of each curler was essential. For instance, a curler with one eye received different instructions compared to someone who was completely blind. I incorporated bright lights on my stick for those with partial sight, adjusting the placement based on individual needs. Most curlers opted to use a stick for delivery, while my totally blind curler shot from the hack and I utilized a dog clicker to provide direction. This experience not only enriched my coaching skills but also deepened my connection to the community in unforeseen ways.

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Our team made a significant mark by participating in both the Provincial and Western Canadian Blind Championships last year, securing a commendable second place at the Western event.

While this achievement is certainly noteworthy, the broader impact of coaching this team has been my immersion into the blind community.

Curiosity may have gotten them started in curling, but they found more. Only one member of our team had experience with curling before, but now they all find joy in the sport. Overcoming initial reservations, such as discomfort with the cold, the team discovered the camaraderie that unfolds post-game in the welcoming atmosphere of the bar.

The social aspect of curling has proven to be a highlight for them. Despite varying levels of familiarity with the sport, the curlers engage in lively conversations with members of other teams. The club's warm reception after each game has played a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging for these curlers. This newfound connection has not only enhanced their experience within the Campbell River community, but has also contributed to the overall enjoyment of the sport.

As for me, I have become aware of a hidden segment within our community. Thousands of blind individuals are confined to their homes, with over 50% never venturing outside. On Vancouver Island alone, more than 7,000 blind people, serviced by CNIB, face this challenge with limited resources. A new initiative called

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Volunteering

the Canadian Council of the Blind has emerged, empowering blind individuals to build their community and support one another in breaking free from isolation.

I am extending a call to all PE teachers and experienced curlers to consider offering your coaching skills to this amazing sport. There is a lack of coaches on Vancouver Island and it may be the same in Saskatchewan, so consider stepping forward to allow more blind athletes to participate in this exciting game. We are also exploring opportunities such as dragon boat racing, golfing, lawn bowling and regular bowling for blind athletes. I encourage you to consider helping out by coaching one of those activities.

Through my involvement, I've gained six blind friends who have become a profoundly rewarding part of my life, and I am just beginning to connect with a broader community. If you are seeking a meaningful way to make a difference during your retirement years, consider extending a helping hand to this significant group within your community that could greatly benefit from your support.

Bruce Laurie is a retired educator now living in Campbell River, BC. He taught in numerous SK and BC communities and was Principal in Paradise Hill, SK. His curling career started at age 14 and provided enjoyment throughout his life. In 2022, he started coaching Blind Curling and is passionate about growing this sport to accommodate more curlers needing assistance. ●

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Research

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Strength in Community: Supporting Canada’s Older Adults WRITTEN BY: JANE MACLEOD

The National Institute on Ageing (NIA) was established in 2016 with a vision for a Canada where “older Canadians feel valued, included, supported, and better prepared to age with confidence”.

Towards that end, the organization actively conducts research across Canada, such as the NIA Ageing in Canada Survey, to inform its advocacy and policy development.

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NIA’s survey, Perspectives on Growing Older in Canada, was first conducted in 2022 to gather insights and viewpoints from older Canadians regarding their experiences, their challenges, and their needs as they age. Working with Environics Institute for Social Research, the NIA will conduct the survey over a ten-year period, observing and reporting on trends in key ageing-related issues across the country.

Each year, the NIA survey addresses three major themes: social wellbeing, financial security, and health and independence. Key findings on each of these dimensions, accompanied by ten indicators of ageing well, are shared in an annual report which serves as a valuable tool for understanding the landscape of ageing in Canada. It ensures that older adults' voices are heard in discussions about their well-being and quality of life.

Using the survey’s terminology, retired teachers between 50-64 years are “approaching older age” and those sixty-five and older are “older adults”. Canada’s “oldest adults” are those individuals over 80 years of age. As STS membership predominantly fits within one of these age groups, NIA’s survey findings may be of interest. Thus, over the next three issues, Outreach will share highlights from NIA’s Perspectives of Growing Older in Canada: The 2023 NIA Ageing in Canada Survey. ●

Research

Social Wellbeing This first article discusses findings and implications around the theme of social wellbeing, measured in the 2023 NIA survey with two indicators: social network strength and experienced ageism. Spoiler alert: the findings are not surprising; however, they do give us reason to pause and reflect.

SOCIAL NETWORKS An important finding of the 2023 NIA Ageing in Canada Survey is that about one in three Canadians 50+ have weak social networks. It is important to remember that social isolation and loneliness are the key elements of one’s social network strength. Social isolation refers to the absence of social contacts, support, and engagement with others and loneliness is defined as the undesirable feeling experienced from unfulfilled social needs. The NIA 2023 found that although most Canadians 50+ have family and friends they can count on, four in 10 (41%) are at risk of social isolation. Survey data also confirms that across Canada, loneliness is common amongst older adults revealing 18% of Canadians 50+ reporting as very lonely, and another 39% reporting as somewhat lonely.

These findings from NIA’s survey may resonate with Saskatchewan’s superannuates. For example, upon retirement, teachers may experience significant social isolation due to changes in their social networks. Having had rich professional lives, teachers may find that their daily social interactions diminish upon retirement, leading to unwelcome feelings of loneliness.

A deeper dive into the survey data highlights the strong links between strong social networks and one’s overall health and wellbeing. For example, research from Lancet in 2000 found that over time, lack of supportive social networks has been linked to a 60% increase in the risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

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AGEISM The World Health Organization (WHO) defines ageism as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age”.

The NIA 2023 survey asked respondents whether they had experienced discrimination or been treated unfairly because of their age. A whopping 32% of Canadians 50 years and older reported having previously experienced discrimination or unfair treatment because of their age and the highest reported was for those aged 50 to 54 years. Like the findings for the strength of social networks, correlations exist between experiences with ageism and an individual’s general health and income level.

The 2023 NIA survey also explored the frequency of older adults’ experience with everyday ageism. Everyday ageism includes occurrences, often indirect, such as jokes about old age, assumptions of one’s inability to complete a task, assumptions on whether the older adult hears clearly or remembers details, or simply reading or seeing things suggesting that older adults are unattractive or undesirable. Alarmingly, 71% of Canadians 50+ reported regularly experiencing at least one form of everyday ageism in their dayto-day lives. Further, experiences with everyday ageism increased with age and were greater for individuals in poor health or with less income security. Finally, survey data revealed that women were more likely to be exposed to everyday ageism than men.

TWO DEVELOPMENTS: SOCIAL PRESCRIBING AND AGETECH The practice of social prescribing is gaining momentum in Canada. The WHO defines social prescribing as “a means for healthcare workers to connect people to a range of non-clinical services in the community in order to improve health and wellbeing”. Social prescribing means creating a holistic and personalized wellness program according to an individual’s situation and community. Common prescriptions include connecting individuals to community services and activities that provide support in the areas of mental and physical health, financial advising, creative endeavours and social inclusion.

Studies from both medical and community organizations suggest that social prescribing works because it addresses issues that, over time, negatively influence one’s health and sense of wellbeing. A well-organized social prescribing program involves community and health care organizations collaborating to create pathways to divert individuals away from an over-burdened health care system and towards available resources in the local community.

For example, connecting someone to a walking group can promote both companionship and physical health, or seeking out volunteer opportunities at a local art gallery or museum can invite personal learning as well as social interaction, or even finding friendship while repairing a grandchild’s favorite toy in a local Men’s Shed … the possibilities are endless.

Social prescribing means creating a holistic and personalized wellness program according to an individual’s situation and community, eg: financial advising, creative endeavours and social inclusion.

AgeTech is essentially technology that can improve the lives of older adults. Think of the app on your phone reminding you to take your medication or plan your grocery list.

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Although social prescribing is relatively new, the concept is taking off in Canada. In Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism (SSM), an STS affiliate, offers information and resources to support communities wishing to promote and participate in social prescribing.

Technology development is big business and these days developing technology for older adults is very big business. Speaking to an investor summit in London last spring, one entrepreneur referred to Canada’s older adults as “the silver tsunami”.

Knowing this, it is hardly surprising that research, industry, government and community organizations are focusing on functional technology that appeals to Canadians over age 50.

Enter AgeTech.

AgeTech is essentially technology that can improve the lives of older adults. Think of the app on your phone reminding you to take your medication or plan your grocery list, or the video account that allows you to visit your grandchildren, or the app on your smartphone monitoring your heartbeat or, GASP, alerting emergency of a fall. These are all examples of AgeTech, and again, the possibilities are endless.

McMaster’s Optimal Aging Portal tells us that technology can indeed offer value to older adults.

Technology enables us to not only visit dear friends and relatives, but also opens doors to new ideas and learning using websites such as YouTube or Masters’ Classes.

Technology allows us to track our health – our steps, our calories, our blood pressure, our sleep.

For some, the jury is still out on whether this is a good thing, however, easily and quickly accessing emergency services can bring peace of mind to many.

Finally, technology can support independent living. Think of it. Regardless of the weather, we can shop, bank and schedule appointments online before sitting down to read the newspaper or an online magazine, or listen to music or an audiobook. Our fridge might even remind us that it’s time to make ice.

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Connecting someone to a walking group can promote both companionship and physical health Obviously, technology can’t do everything, but there is no question, technology can make living easier.

CONCLUSION In a nutshell, the NIA survey results underscore the connection between strong social networks and wellbeing for older Canadians. As well, NIA survey results are spurring research and innovation to improve the quality of living for older adults.

For Saskatchewan’s retired teachers, the findings and developments can support STS member and Chapter efforts to connect, either virtually or face-to-face, with their educator colleagues to foster professional and social wellbeing.

Working together, Saskatchewan’s superannuates can support one another as they navigate the challenges of ageing while enhancing their quality of and zest for a fulfilling retirement. ● Jane has experience as a teacher and educational leader in Saskatoon as well as in Papua New Guinea and Abu Dhabi. Upon her return to Canada in 2016, Jane worked at the STF as Senior Manager of Research and Records. Today, as an active superannuate, Jane continues to enjoy researching and writing about educational issues from both a local and global perspective.

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The Benefits of Pet Ownership for Older People WRITTEN BY: KIMBERLY BROWN

For many people, pets are a part of their family, and for people who live alone, a pet can be a friend with whom to talk. Pets such as fish, dogs, cats, or other furry friends can offer companionship and have a positive impact on a person’s health and physical activity.

In a study from the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging (2018), responses from pet owners stated that “their pets help them enjoy life (88%), make them feel loved (86%), reduce stress (79%), provide a sense of purpose (73%), and help them stick to a routine (62%)”.

Respondents also reported that their pets “connect them with other people (65%), help them be physically active (64% overall and 78% among dog owners), and help them cope with physical and emotional symptoms (60%), including taking their mind off pain (34%).”

Neuroscientist Henry Mahncke, PhD, (“These Organizations Strive to Keep Pets and Older Adults Together”) states that "giving and receiving love from a pet – everything from those belly rubs for your dog to when your cat curls up in your lap – stimulates social and emotional centers in the brain that are important for overall brain health.” Lifeline.ca also shares that some studies showed a reduced need for medication when people pet a dog or cat, due to a release of calming hormones.

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“Giving and receiving love from a pet—everything from those belly rubs for your dog to when your cat curls up in your lap— stimulates social and emotional centers in the brain that are important for overall brain health.”

There are many things to consider when choosing if someone should have a pet and what type of pet would be the best choice. For less mobile people, a cat may be the best option because cats do not need to be taken for walks by their owner.

Another option could be a small dog that uses training pads, or a caged animal. Older dogs and cats are also great because they are usually calmer and quieter and need less support. “The Healing Power of Pets for Seniors” on AgingCare.com lists things to consider when helping an older adult on deciding to have a pet.

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Is the senior set in their ways?

Remember that your pet will change routines.

Have they had a pet before? Knowing how to take care of a pet already is beneficial, but learning is also a good thing for someone older.

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Does the senior have any disabilities or functional limitations? Does the pet need to be taken for walks?

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Would a therapeutic or emotional support animal be beneficial? What type of animal can be helpful to the owner?

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What age of pet would be best? Is it best for a furry animal, young or old, or a small animal that needs little support?

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What temperament would be a good fit for the senior? Research the type of pet you choose.

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Is the pet healthy? Have the new potential pet checked by a veterinarian.

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One pet or two? Pets can be companions to each other but are more work.

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Are finances an issue? Can the owner afford food and potential health care for their pet?

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Is there a backup plan in place for the pet? What will happen to the pet if something happens to the owner?

For people who would like a pet but need help, ElderDog Canada volunteers support for older adults in caring for their dogs. Currently there is not a local chapter or PAWD in Saskatchewan, but people may volunteer to begin a program in their community. In the study from the University of Michigan, people responded to questions about having and caring for their pet: “While one in five (20%) respondents cares for their pet on their own, the majority (80%) reported that others help care for their pets.”

Of course, not everyone wants a pet, and for some, the costs of pet care or living in a non petfriendly building make owning a pet difficult.

There are opportunities to spend time with pets by volunteering at a local animal shelter, having pet therapy visits, pet sitting, or pet walking. Also, Lifeline.ca posts that “many senior living facilities have taken the information learned from studies on the elderly with pets to create programs that provide interaction between the residents and specially trained animals”. AmericanHumane.org also posts that animal-assisted activities and animal-assisted therapy are becoming increasingly popular ways for older adults to interact with animals.

Pets offer a wide variety of benefits to older people, whether the person owns the pet or has opportunities to spend time with one. Pets bring companionship and joy to people's lives. ● Kimberly Brown is a retired school administrator who is enjoying substitute teaching and spending time with family and friends. She is also Yoga Alliance E-RYT® 200, YACEP® Yoga Teacher and a Yoga Medicine® Registered Therapeutic Specialist who teaches yoga classes, workshops, and works with individual clients in Regina and during the winter in Mexico. Kimberly has led beginner to half-marathon running clinics and loves being active whether indoors or outside.

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Social From Our Connections Readers

From Our Readers

WINTER 2024 • Volume 47

Fun Is Where You Make It! WRITTEN BY: BETTY MCGILLVRAY

“I may be forced to grow older, but I cannot be forced to grow up.”

That is an excerpt from my book, Fun is Where You Make It: Amusing Tales from a Teacher’s Life. It is a collection of humorous short stories based on my life. It starts when I am registering for university and ends when I recently turned sixty. Some of the stories take place while I am teaching. Other stories are from other aspects of my life like living in a rural community, buying my first car, and going on holidays.

Life is too short to be serious all the time, and let’s face it, we all need a laugh every once in a while. That is what I try to share in this book. I also want to encourage people to add joy to their daily lives. It can be as simple as wearing kooky socks or blowing the dust off your dishes that you have been saving for a special occasion. Use them, today is a special occasion!

“My book” … it still gives me a thrill when I say that. I have a published book! I am an author! That leads me to another thought that I want to share with you: you are never too old to dream. Look at me! I have wanted to be an author for a

very long time. I have watched others from my local writer’s group become published and hoped that maybe one day, I too, would be able to call myself an author. Now in my retirement, I made that dream come true. And the result is even more exciting than I had hoped. Seeing my book rise to the number one spot on an Amazon best seller list is thrilling, let me tell you!

So, what are you waiting for? Find something that used to bring you joy and bring it back into your life. Is there a dream you have? Well, now is the time to fulfill it! Oh, maybe go buy my book and have yourself a good laugh. You will be glad you did. ● Betty McGillivray grew up in Mossbank, SK. After teaching in the small Saskatchewan towns of Piapot, Golden Prairie, and Bienfait, she finished her career at Westview School in Estevan.

Betty’s husband, Lyle, and her sons, Matthew and Curtis, are the joys of her life. She tries to see the humorous side of life and her book, Fun Is Where You Make It, is full of these stories.

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WINTER 2024 • Volume 47 Book Reviews

The Inspired Journey of Retirement WRITTEN BY: MAGI MCFADDEN

Book Reviews

Book Review: This book is available at the Emma Stewart Resources Centre (ESRC). It, or any others in the ESCR collection, can be mailed directly to you by calling the ESRC at 1-800-667-7762 or by emailing esrc@stf.sk.ca.

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ES, THERE ARE inspirational books about retirement – books that swing open doors onto adventure, change, and new possibilities! Retirees can find a myriad of publications offering perspicacious nuggets of wisdom. Whether just embarking upon the retirement journey or revisiting directions taken, individuals will find helpful strategies. Authors each share their own retirement strategies and suggest how to find purpose, meaning, and happiness in your retirement journey. I have reviewed a number of books and will offer my insights over the next few issues.

THE RETIREMENT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE TO MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR NEWFOUND FREEDOM Ted Heybridge, the author of The Joy of Retirement, Congratulations on Your Retirement, and The Little Instruction Book for Retirement-The Retirement Handbook-Retirement for Beginners (three book collection set), comes yet another book offering gems of wisdom for the newly retired.

In this book, Ted Heybridge challenges new retirees to cast off inhibitions, embrace their inner adventurers, and seize the opportunities on the horizon. Heybridge, author extraordinaire, describes retirement as a transition from career to the next stage of our lives and behooves retirees to make the transition financially and socially planful so that it is full of wonder, joy, discovery, and purpose. He provides a host of advice on staying active, maintaining health and wellbeing, managing money and work, embracing

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nature, nurturing home and garden, pursuing lifelong learning, engaging in creativity and crafts, cultivating relationships, exploring travel, finding purpose and fulfillment, and embracing eccentricity.

Heybridge offers a wealth of ideas for striking a good balance that will help retirees make the most of their days and still leave time to relax, tend to good health, and enjoy life. Heybridge’s most recent book about retirement is chock-full of practical revitalizing ideas for newcomers to the full-time freedom of retirement. ● Magi McFadden is currently serving on the Regina Chapter of the STS Executive board as Social Committee Co-chair. A retired K-12 special needs teacher, Magi has served at the provincial level and local council level of the STF professional growth network LEARN as President, Vice President, and Editor of their official publication “Query” for more than a decade.

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Awareness

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Loneliness and Older Canadians WRITTEN BY: ALISON LAMANTIA The following article was published in the magazine ‘Renaissance’ for RTOERO and can be found online at: https://erenaissance.rtoero.ca/ loneliness-and-older-canadians/. It has been reprinted with permission.

Loneliness can feel ... well ... lonely. But it’s common. So common, in fact, that the Women’s Age Lab at Women’s College Hospital in Toronto called it an epidemic in a policy brief released earlier this year.

They, along with the Intersectoral Collaboration for Loneliness, a national collaboration of 14 organizations, want Canada to follow the lead of other countries and implement a national strategy to combat loneliness and promote social connections.

“Loneliness is a major contributor to our health and well-being, yet it’s within our ability to address. It’s modifiable. It’s preventable with the right supports and resources,” says Dr. Rachel Savage, a scientist at the Women’s Age Lab. “Other regions in the world have taken a much more proactive stance and have made significant investments in addressing this issue.”

Canada’s lack of a coordinated approach could explain why it ranked last among 11 countries on the 2021 Commonwealth Fund survey when it came to levels of social isolation.

According to data from the survey, 39 percent of Canadians aged 65 and older report feeling lonely at least some of the time. And the rate is higher for women.

“A higher proportion of older women felt lonely at least some of the time – 42.4 percent compared to 34.2 percent of men. So we know it’s an important issue in older women,” Savage says. “There are a lot of different factors that are probably playing into this.”

Among them, women live longer, increasing their likelihood of widowhood and living alone; women take on more caregiving roles, which can be isolating; they’re more likely to face financial insecurity; and some of this can be a reporting issue – women may be more likely to acknowledge feeling lonely.

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WINTER 2024 • Volume 47 Awareness

The remedy to loneliness seems simple: It’s social connection. But if it’s that straightforward, why are we still grappling with loneliness? “A lot of the conversation around loneliness now positions it as an individual problem, which contributes to stigma,” Savage explains. “People are often surprised to learn that loneliness is patterned across marginalized populations – people with disability, low income, women, immigrants. And so, some of this has to do with systemic issues and discrimination.”

Take income – access to things like hearing aids, transportation or dental care helps us to be included. Life transitions are another significant factor. The death of a spouse, the onset of a new health or mobility challenge, caregiving for a family member, even retirement are life changes that can make us more vulnerable to experiencing loneliness.

Having access to resources to help us during those transitions is essential. Savage and her team want to see expanded strategies and increased investments in social infrastructure and interventions, which, not surprisingly, also means more research.

The problem is loneliness is complex.

Who we are, where we live, what stage of life we’re in all interact in different ways to put us at different levels of risk.

“We don’t really have great evidence on how we can address loneliness, and one explanation is that most interventions take a one-size-fits-all approach,” Savage says. “The problem is loneliness is complex. Who we are, where we live, what stage of life we’re in all interact in different ways to

Outreach

put us at different levels of risk. There’s evidence showing that interventions tailored to populations have the greatest impact.”

Savage’s team is currently researching an intersectional approach to looking at loneliness for middle-aged and older adults by exploring subgroups like sex, gender, age, disability, income, immigrant status and sexual orientation to inform more tailored approaches that address the root causes.

Knowing that this issue is widespread might offer comfort if you’re dealing with loneliness: You aren’t alone. It’s also important to recognize that loneliness is a natural and appropriate response to challenging circumstances, like life changes, and experiencing it can serve as a reminder to reach out.

“If you feel thirsty, that means you should have water. If you’re feeling lonely, it’s your body telling you it’s time to connect with the people around you,” Savage says. “We need to stop thinking about it as a shameful thing. We all feel and experience loneliness at different points in our lives.”

Individually and collectively, older adults need to continue to advocate and raise the issue of loneliness with elected officials.

But you don’t need to wait for a national strategy to take action for yourself and those around you.

A good first step is to tell someone in your life how you’re feeling – a trusted friend or family member, a healthcare provider or faith leader. If you’re concerned about someone else in your life, you could ask them how they’re feeling and try to help them get started with an activity.

“There’s a lot that can be done just by being a great neighbour right in your community and supporting people,” Savage says. “It’s important that we all work within our local spheres of influence and try to reach out to others. We’re all in this together.” ● Alison LaMantia is a freelance writer and communications professional committed to making a positive impact. Passionate about health and well-being, addressing inequities, and sustainability, Alison takes on projects aligned with her values. She lives in Oro-Medonte, Ontario, with her husband and three children.

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Engagement

Engagement

WINTER 2024 • Volume 47

Is This True?

I

WRITTEN BY: KEVIN SCHMIDT T IS IMPERATIVE to verify that what we are being told is accurate and truthful. For example, in the September 2024 Presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, accusations were made against both candidates that statements they made were untrue. How is the average person supposed to know what is accurate and what is not? In said debate, Trump stated: “In Springfield, they are eating the dogs. The people that came in, they are eating the cats.” The moderators did a quick fact-check and clarified that there were no reports of such actions taking place in Springfield. How did the moderators determine, in such a short time, that Trump’s claim was false? Is this a skill that an average human being could employ to avoid being duped and falling for “fake news”?

The term “fake news” has always existed but really rose to prominence in 2017 when President-elect Donald Trump refused to take questions from mainline news organizations because he stated their reporting to be “fake news”. So, in a world with a 24-hour news cycle where we are constantly bombarded by information on television, on podcasts, in print and in social media feeds, how do we determine what is fake news?

I offer the guidance of Mike Caulfield and Sam Wineburg, authors of the book, Verified.

Over years of research, they found that people reasoned quite poorly when confronted with unfamiliar online information. Caulfield and Wineburg collated their research into this book and provide guidance on how to check facts and verify the information presented.

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WINTER 2024 • Volume 47

When individuals are confronted with unfamiliar information, they need to consider three crucial contexts: • The context of the source. What’s the reputation of the source of information?

• The context of the claim. What have others said about the claim?

• The context of you. What is your level of expertise regarding the information?

Reflecting for as little as thirty seconds and seeking basic information can support critical thinking.

Caulfield and Wineburg developed a process referred to as “SIFT” (see sidebar on the right).

Google is a search engine, not a truth engine.

Let’s again use Trump’s claim that migrants are eating cats and dogs in Springfield. I could STOP and recognize I know nothing about the claim.

To INVESTIGATE means to recognize the source of the claim is an individual who, many say, does not have a strong reputation for telling the truth.

To FIND other coverage means doing an online search for headlines about the claim which the debate moderators accomplished in a few seconds and found no corroborating evidence. There was no need to TRACE because the claim was already debunked in less than 30 seconds.

When encountering a new page with unfamiliar content, it is important to SIFT. First, STOP and get off the page! It is easy to get caught up looking at the webpage and judging that it is a trustworthy organization because the webpage looks professional. Don’t be fooled. Online tools are cheap and easy to use, so it is relatively easy for any organization to create a respectable looking webpage. Don’t judge the appearance; get off the page and investigate by doing a Google search.

Google is a good friend for the fact checker.

Determine the specific and unique keywords to enter in the search bar to focus the search.

Restrain from clicking on the first result and then read the snippets of information under Outreach

Engagement

several headlines to see which ones are most relevant to your search. Remember, Google is a search engine, not a truth engine. Engaging in a thoughtful search will allow Google to assist you in finding the most accurate information.

It is not helpful for anyone to read material that is inaccurate. Follow SIFT and in less than a minute, information can be verified and shared, or debunked and discarded. Help stop the spread of “fake news”.

If you want to strengthen your skills in critical analysis of news articles, contact the Emma Stewart Resource Centre at 1-800-667-7762 to reserve the book, Verified.

How to “SIFT” When a headline catches our interest, Caulfield and Wineburg suggest we: S – STOP Ask yourself what you really know about the claim and the source sharing it.

I – INVESTIGATE Do a quick check to see if the source is trustworthy for this purpose. One method is to hover over the photo of the author and a short biography should appear, or open a new tab and do an online search (ex: Wikipedia) of the author to see who they represent.

F – FIND OTHER COVERAGE Take a second to zoom out and see what other sources say. When the search gives various sources, pick a reputable source such as the Mayo Clinic for medicine.

T – TRACE Trace the claim, quote, or media to the original author. Go to the original source and determine whether a) it is a reputable source, and b) whether the information in the original source supports the assertion in the claim. ● Sourced from: Caulfield M. and Wineburg S. (2023). Verified: how to think straight, get duped less, and make better decisions about what to believe online.

University of Chicago Press.

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DECEMBER

23

Office Closed (through to January 3 inclusive)

25

Christmas Day

26

Boxing Day

JANUARY

6

Office Re-opens

8-9

Provincial Executive Meeting

MARCH

A couple of Regina superannuates have created a video series called “Super Superannuates!” and are planning a number of episodes.

You can view their first episode here.

11-12 Provincial Executive Meeting

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For more details and registration forms for our events visit the STS website at www.sts.sk.ca

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