If you are experiencing difficulties accessing links or photos due to your email settings, please visit our website, cerah.lakeheadu.ca to view the full E-Blast newsletter. | | Centre for Education and Research on Aging & Health | |
National Indigenous Peoples History Month & National Indigenous Peoples Day 2026
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to shape Canada today.
It is also meant to be a time for reflection, and to recognize the ongoing impacts of colonization and to reflect on how we can all contribute to reconciliation.
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National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year—June 21.
For generations, many First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages, and traditions at this time of year. The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.
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While things like mindfulness and yoga are wonderful staples of wellness, "self-care" has become a broad term. We’re looking for the unconventional—those unique, out-of-the-box practices that truly sustain you.
Do you have a fresh approach to well-being that would benefit health and social care providers in NWO? We are looking to feature four unique perspectives at the NWO Palliative Care Booster Conference on October 2, 2026, in Thunder Bay*.
- Format: 15-minute Lightning Talk
- Submission Deadline: Monday, July 6, 2026
*Selected speakers will receive one complimentary conference registration and a $250 honorarium. Additionally, partial travel reimbursement is available to help facilitate your attendance.
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The North West Dementia Working Group Turns 12!
Since March 2014, the North West Dementia Working Group (NWDWG) has evolved from a CERAH research project into a grassroots advocacy leader. Over the past decade, we have challenged stigma by contributing to national dementia strategies, launching the "Dementia Café," and developing regional resource guides. We have also partnered on international research, including "Dementia in the Outdoors," and look forward to our latest project, "Dementia Gardens: A Place to Grow," launching this summer. Thank you for 12 years of incredible community support!
If you or a loved one are living with dementia, and want to get involved in the NWDWG, email us at nwdementiaworkinggroup@gmail.com
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Research Participation Opportunities!
Click the posters below for more information
| | Caring Connections Chronicles | |
Emergency Response Information Kit (ERIK)
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit and Age Friendly Thunder Bay have launched a new Emergency Response Information Kit (E.R.I.K.) to help older adults and individuals managing multiple health conditions keep important medical information organized and easily accessible during emergencies.
The kit allows individuals to record medications, allergies, medical conditions, emergency contacts, care providers, and important documents such as Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) forms. Designed to be stored on the fridge for quick access by paramedics and emergency responders, the kit can support faster communication and more informed care during stressful situations.
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Dementia Gardens: A Place To Grow Adult Day Program Officially Starting!
Dementia Gardens is an initiative of the Centre for Education and Research on Aging & Health (CERAH) at Lakehead University, supported by the North West Dementia Working Group. This is an outdoor program designed for people living with dementia.
When: Every Friday for 4–8 weeks, with two program blocks to choose from (July or August/September... or both!).
Registration: Recruitment is open now! To sign up, please call us at 807-343-8010 ext. 7271 or email dementia.gardens@lakeheadu.ca.
Stay Updated: Our Open House is coming up soon! Follow "Dementia Gardens" on Facebook for the latest updates.
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CERAH Speaker Series - The Journey After a Dementia Diagnosis
June 24, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ET
What comes after a dementia diagnosis? Join members of the North West Dementia Working Group (NWDWG) and care partners as they share lived experiences, practical advice, and lessons learned along the dementia journey.
This session will explore navigating daily challenges, planning for future care needs, accessing supports and resources, and caring for your own well-being as a care partner. Through personal stories and real-world experiences, participants will gain valuable insights into what to expect after a diagnosis.
Click the poster or button for more information!
| | For Informal Care Providers | | |
Beyond the Last Page: Legacy Stories that Live On
An interactive session focused on how engaging in legacy work can promote healing and deepen connections.
With guest speakers: Drs. Marg McKee and Scott Pound
When: Thursday June 11, 2026 | 7:00 - 8:30 PM ET
Where: Hilldale Lutheran Church Hall, 321 Hilldale Rd.
Registration is required: call 807-626-5570 or click the button below
| | For Health & Social Care Providers | |
Next Session: Regional Education Round Table
When: June 4, 2026 | 8:00 am - 9:30 am ET
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Disrupting Death: Conversations about Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada. Hosts, Kathy Kortes-Miller and Keri-Lyn Durant lead with curiosity as they interview a wide range of guests who know M.A.i.D intimately.
Latest Episode: The Alberta Episode
This month's episode is a double interview with three Albertans: in part 1 we speak with Dr. Stacy Hume about her father and his unfulfilled choice of MAiD at end of life. In part 2, Dr. Tracy Powell and Tania Stilson share updates about Bill 18 and its implications for Alberta and the rest of the country.
| | Dementia Dialogue often features people living with dementia, their care/life partners, and supporters sharing experiences. Through the interviews, guests demonstrate their capacity to live fully. Other episodes include conversations with researchers and advocates. | | | | | Contact us if you have any questions about our resources or upcoming events. We are also interested in aging and health news from your region, so please keep in touch! | | | | |
