SPEAKERS

Convention Day One Opening Keynote – A House in the Sky: An Extraordinary Mindset
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Main Stage
10:00 am – 11:00 am

Amanda Lindhout is a sought-after inspirational speaker, trusted by big brands to deliver a life changing, transformational keynote experience. Her New York Times bestselling memoir, A House in the Sky, is being developed into a Hollywood motion picture by heavyweight production company Annapurna, with two-time Oscar nominated actress Rooney Mara playing Amanda.

A publishing phenomenon, A House in the Sky, has remained a Top Ten bestselling book since it’s release in 2013. Raised by a single mom in a small city, Amanda escaped the violence of her childhood by imagining herself in the pages of National Geographic magazine. As a young woman, Amanda’s curiosity led her to some of the world’s most beautiful and remote places, its most imperilled and perilous countries and then into 15 months of harrowing captivity. Working as a journalist in Somalia, she was abducted by a group of masked men along a dusty road. Amanda spent 460 days as a hostage, surviving on strategy, fortitude and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Amanda’s unique experiences give her credibility to discuss important issues ranging from countering terrorism to supporting the women’s movement and she regularly appears in the media with her opinion. She has been featured in Vogue, New York Times Magazine, Dateline, The Today Show, Morning Joe, and Anderson Cooper.

Amanda’s keynote presentations are for audiences of all sizes — from Richard Branson’s living room to an arena of 20,000 — she creates intimacy with the women and men in the room through her emotional, powerful storytelling. Her tale of survival builds suspense and momentum to reveal life changing insights into mind conditioning, including actionable takeaways about reframing stories of pain into power.

Amanda has travelled to nearly 90 countries. She lives in Calgary, Canada.

Generously sponsored by:

Pre-Convention Opening Keynote – Ignite the Power of Positivity: YOU make the Difference!
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
9:00 am – 10:00 am

Born in Australia and now residing in Vancouver, Michelle Ray is an international keynote speaker, author and thought leader and renowned for her expertise on leadership, accountability, change and building outstanding workplace cultures. She has worked with hundreds of leaders and their teams in diverse industries including long term care, healthcare within private and public enterprises, as well as association events around the world. Her style has been described as dynamic, fun refreshing, uplifting with a common-sense message.
As an in-demand business conference speaker for more than 25 years, Michelle was inducted into the Canadian Speaking Hall of Fame in December, 2021. She has earned the Certified Speaking Professional as well as the Certified Virtual Presenter designations, held by less than 1,500 people worldwide. Michelle is the author of two books: Lead Yourself First! Indispensable Lessons in Business & in Life and Leading in Real Time: How to Drive Success in a Radically Changing World She has appeared as a guest on numerous podcasts, TV and current affairs programs as a sought-after expert on the world of work and outstanding leadership practices.

Generously sponsored by:

Convention Day Two Opening Keynote – The Success-Energy Reset: How to Regain Focus, Recharge Work and Life in a Post-Pandemic World
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Main Stage
10:00 am – 11:00 am

For over 17 years, Michelle Cederberg has captivated audiences across North America with her empowering and humorous messages about how to set worthwhile goals, get energized for success, and live a bigger life, and now, she’s also taking the virtual world by storm!

An in-demand speaker, author, coach and consultant, she believes that personal and professional success is directly influenced by how well we harness the physical, mental and emotional capacity we each have within us. She helps people boost that capacity, so they gain clarity, build confidence, and get the discipline to create the life and career they want.

She holds a Masters in Kinesiology, a BA in Psychology, a specialization in Health and Exercise Psychology, is a Certified Exercise Physiologist, and a Certified Professional Co-Active Life Coach. She truly combines mind, body and practicality to empower change.

Michelle is the author of three books. Her new book The Success-Energy Equation, debuted as a bestseller in October 2020.

Generously sponsored by:

Closing Session
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Main Stage
3:00 am – 3:30 am

Let us whisk you away to one of the world’s greatest destinations as we wrap up the convention on top of the world!
TWC 2022 will close with a live, interactive tour of Machu Picchu led by a local HeyGo tour guide high up in the Peruvian Andes. Discovering this mystical Incan Wonder of the World is as exhilarating today as the first time outsiders arrived a century ago. Leave your passport behind and experience this majestic and mysterious destination from the comfort of your home or office.

Generously sponsored by:

Sexuality & Dementia: Implementing an Introductory E-Learning Module
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Katelynn Aelick is the Project Coordinator for the Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO) Provincial Coordinating Office at the North Bay Regional Health Centre. As part of her role, Katelynn leads initiatives focused on measuring the impact of BSO and surfacing emerging and promising practices on the topics of capacity building, transitions and sexual expression.

Positive Impact of Psychological Health and Safety Program in the Workplace Through Managing Psychosocial Factors
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Adeeba is a Certified Health and Safety Consultant at the PSHSA. Adeeba holds a Master of Public Health degree in Occupational & Environmental Health and is an occupational hygienist. Adeeba provides OHS training and expert advice to healthcare organizations on managing workplace hazards. Adeeba completed a Professional Certificate in Psychological Health and Safety and is currently supporting a long-term care project for the implementation of the National Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace Standard.

Shining a Light on the Future of Seniors’ Care
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Matthew Anderson is an experienced health care leader, team-builder and advocate for positive change. Before joining Ontario Health, Matthew was President and CEO of Lakeridge Health. At Ontario Health, Matthew is leading one of the largest mergers in healthcare history bringing together 21 agencies.
Matthew began his career in data analytics and IT. He became Vice President and Chief Information Officer at UHN in 2000. In 2008, he was named CEO of the Toronto Central Local Health Integration Network and in 2010, became CEO of William Osler Health System.
Matthew Anderson is married with three children and numerous pets.

Future Proofing Mental Health During Emergencies: Innovative & Promising Protective Practices from the Pandemic
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Tanya Andrews, MSW, RSW, has worked with residents and families/caregivers within LTC since 2016. At Extendicare Southwood Lakes Long-Term Care Home, she is Leader of the in-home Behavioural Supports Ontario team and responsible for several Quality Protocols and all home admissions and discharges. Tanya is passionate about LTC and is an active member of the Social Workers in Gerontology Network in Windsor-Essex County as well as the OASW LTC Subcommittee.

Virtual Care Planning with Residents and Families of Long-Term Care Homes During COVID-19
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Melissa Babcock is a happily married, proud mother of two amazing girls. She has worked at Vision Nursing home for 19 years. She started out as a PSW while earning her RPN diploma. Melissa has had many opportunities at Vision including: BSO champion, MDS RAI coordinator, Point Click Care configuration specialist and most recently a role in Quality Improvement. Melissa enjoys staying active with sports, walking her dog, and the occasional glass of wine.

Shining a Light on the Future of Seniors’ Care AND Addressing Family Perspectives and Forging Partnerships
Tuesday, April 5, 2022 / Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Main Stage / Retirement Room
11:00am – 12:00pm / 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Deborah worked as an executive in seniors’ care for 11 years, and during that time she became a resident’s family member three times, with her husband, mom and dad. That life changing experience inspired her to leave her corporate career to start her company THINK Breakthrough, to change and support relationships between families and organizations that assist families with the biggest concern in aging – Now What?
Her latest book also aptly titled “Now What?” is written to support people with their emotional journey of becoming a ‘residents’ family member, and equip the seniors care homes to develop a trusting and compassionate care partnership with their new family members.

Positive Impact of Psychological Health and Safety Program in the Workplace Through Managing Psychosocial Factors
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Sherri Bastos is the Public Service Health and Safety Association’s Director of Stakeholder and Government Relations. She is a passionate OH&S professional, with 22+ years of leadership experience dedicated to enhancing worker and public health, safety. Sherri’s has focused on leading provincial and national teams on best in-class OH&S prevention and claims management programs in hospital, long-term care, retirement and home care. She has successfully achieved leading OH&S strategic goals through strong team collaboration, actively listening, fostering relationships, and innovation.

Therapeutic Recreation Program Roll-Out
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

My name is Jacqueline Bishop. My passion is making a difference in as many residents lives that I can. I believe it is our time to give back to the elderly as they were the ones who took care of us growing up. I have lots of knowledge and experience working in the field that benefits me on a day-to-day basis. I have a diploma in Social work (Gerontology) as well as my Bachelors in Therapeutic Recreation.

An eLearning Curriculum to Enhance Bathing of Persons with Responsive Behaviours in Long-Term Care Homes
Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Michele’s Nursing career has included Community and LTC based roles, primarily focused on the assessment, care and support of Older Persons with cognitive, mental health and responsive behaviours/personal expressions. Michele has been a part of the Gentle Persuasive Approaches © (GPA) program since its inception as one of the first GPA Certified Coaches (CC). Michele formally joined the AGE Team in 2013 as GPA 3rd edition Curriculum Coordinator and now serves as AGE Clinical Education Specialist.

Advocating for Change – Proposed Regulatory Changes and the Impact on Seniors Nutrition Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

I am a graduate of George Brown College Chef Training and Food and Nutrition Management Program. I also completed the Administrator Certification course with the CHA. I have worked in LTC for over 15 years starting as a Dietary Aide a Since that time I had many amazing opportunities with Chartwell, and I worked in positions as Administrator and currently I am a Consultant for Dietary Services. I am also an Accreditation Surveyor with CARF International and support the CSNM Board of Directors as the Ontario Representative.

Optimizing Dementia Care through Online Education for Unregulated Care Providers Across Canada
AND
Online Education on Continence Care for Personal Support Workers in Long Term Care
Wednesday, Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Dr. Veronique Boscart (Executive Dean of the School of Health & Life Sciences and Executive Director for the Canadian Institute of Seniors Care at Conestoga College, and CIHR/Schlegel Industrial Research Chair for Colleges in Senior Care) has 25 years of gerontological experience working as a nurse, educator, manager, and researcher. She has published over 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts and is the lead author on the first, second, and third Canadian edition of Gerontological Nursing and Healthy Aging.

The Future of Work
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Denise Boudreau, MHA, LNHA, is President of Drive, which helps healthcare and senior living organizations measure and improve their culture, resulting in improved recruitment and retention. A former nursing home and assisted living administrator, she is a serial volunteer serving on numerous state and national boards. Denise received her Bachelor of Science in Gerontology from the University of Scranton and her Master in Health Administration from Cornell University where she currently works as a student mentor. She is proud to share that she started off her career as a dietary aide and nursing assistant.

CSNM and the Pandemic – How we needed to Pivot as a Professional Society
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Shari is an association management professional and works behind the scenes at CSNM.  With a focus on board governance, leadership, administration, and strategic thinking, her priorities include supporting all members and stakeholders through our Board initiatives.  During the pandemic, Shari and her team were the backbone of CSNM as our members stepped up to front-line duties and tasks and never missed a beat in providing superior service to all for any needs, while ensuring the Society thrived.

The Rejected – Providing a New Chapter in Life for Those Labelled “High Behaviour Risk”
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lora Bruyn Martin is the Innovation Specialist at Schlegel Villages and has over 9 years experience working in long term care and retirement. Lora is responsible for building innovation capacity by finding ways to effectively collaborate with academic, healthcare and innovation partners. She also helps to implement and sustain new programs within Schlegel Villages. Lora has a MASc in Systems Design Engineering and a BSc in Kinesiology, both from the University of Waterloo.

From Surviving to Thriving: Care Strategies that Work & Improve Resident Outcomes
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

For 23 years, Cheryl worked in LTC in Behavior Support and traditional PSW roles. Her thirst to effectively interact, intervene and support people experiencing brain change/responsive behavior was unquenched by Ontario programs (i.e., GPA, U-First). Now, a Positive Approach to Care Trainer – Consultant, understanding dementia and brain change; she’s accomplished in hands-on skills that surpass basic resident care. Effective communication and relationship building ensure rewarding interactions; relieving resident loneliness, providing comfort, encouraging independence, and promoting each individual’s self-respect.

Fit to Fame (Community Fitness Initiative)
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Heather Buist began her career in geriatrics as a co-op student in 2015 at Schlegel Villages Tansley Woods. This was while attending Sheridan College for a Bachelor in Kinesiology and Health Promotion. Heather is currently a kinesiologist at the Village of Erin Meadows and transitioning into Recreation Director at Erin Mills Lodge. Heather’s passion is gaining knowledge and experience through the authentic relationships she creates. She fosters an environment where each and every senior can succeed in their own way.

Online Education on Continence Care for Personal Support Workers in Long Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Kathy completed her Registered Nurse training in the UK in 1989 and went on to work in acute medicine and ER. After moving to Canada, she went on to complete the RN exams in Ontario and subsequently carries registrations in both the UK and Ontario CA. She spent several years working as a continence advisor and has a passion for improving the lives of individuals living with incontinence and sharing her knowledge with clinicians challenged with meeting the needs of sufferers. Her experience also includes LTC where she has held positions of RN, ADOC and DOC and in more recent year’s Clinical Director at Essity Canada. Essity is a global health and hygiene company dedicated to improving wellbeing through leading hygiene and health solutions, products and services. The Clinical Director role involves working with, and supporting a team of clinicians that facilitate education in both Advanced Wound Care and Lymphology as well as the continued development and delivery of continence care programs, services and education with a focus on the support industry, offering partnership across sectors. Kathy holds a post registration diploma in nursing, a BScN and a MSc in Integrated Health and Social Care.

Organizational Resilience: A Guide to Support Recruitment and Retention
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Jen Calver is a long standing WeRPN member and nurse consultant for WeRPNs Organizational Resilience guidebook. Jen has a background experience in clinical practice, leadership, teaching and research roles across healthcare and academic institutions. She has a special interest in health service research, aging, nursing and policy. Jen is completing her Master’s of Health Sciences in Community, Public and Population Health from Ontario Tech University, and remains actively involved in nursing and research communities.

CSNM and the Pandemic – How we needed to Pivot as a Professional Society
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Amber is the current Past President of CSNM. She has a wealth of industry experience including being a Chef, Certified Nutrition Manager, Professor at Centennial and Humber Colleges, and Entrepreneur. As an active volunteer, Amber strives to advocate and lobby for our profession and currently sits as the Chair of the CSNM Lobbying and Advocacy committee, member of Canadian IDDSI Reference Group, Ontario Senior Nutrition and Advisory Committee (OSNAC), and Food and Nutrition Advisory Committee (FNAT).

Transforming Care: Building Resilience and Support Through Family Caregivers
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Dr. James Conklin is an Investigator at Bruyère Research Institute (BRI) and Associate Professor at Concordia University. He has industry experience in organizational change, and has been researching planned change, knowledge translation, and implementation science for 16 years. He worked on translational issues with Ontario’s OPEN program, where his developmental evaluation work produced the rapid analytical methods we will use. He is expert in qualitative methods and has conducted several research projects in LTC settings.

Virtual Care Planning with Residents and Families of Long-Term Care Homes During COVID-19
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Denise Connelly is a physiotherapist and Associate Professor in the School of Physical Therapy at Western University. Her research focuses on preserving mobility of older adults to optimize independence in activities of daily living. Further, her research aims to build capacity in LTC for care of older adults by addressing resilience in Registered Practical Nurses, implementation of virtual team-based care planning (PIECESTM) and engaging family/care partners and residents as experts of their own healthcare experiences.
Funding: SSHRC Partnership Engagement Grant with WeRPN and CIHR/ CPSI/CFHI Implementation Science Teams: Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness in LTC.

Legal Update on the New Legislation Affecting Long-Term Care and Retirement Home Operators
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
10:45 am – 11:45 am

Lisa Corrente is a partner at Torkin Manes LLP. Lisa represents long-term care homes and retirement homes with respect to ministry inspections and compliance matters; licensing issues; Directors’ reviews and appeals; responding to professional complaints and discipline proceedings; employment and human rights matters; tenancy disputes; privacy and requests for access to information; and the resolution of issues concerning residents and their family members.
In 2018, Lisa acted as counsel to a long-term care operator at the Gillese Public Inquiry.

Virtual Resident and Family Caregiver-Led Huddles to Support Quality Resident Care
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Dr. Cranley is an Assistant Professor at the Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto. Her research focuses on developing strategies to support resident and family caregiver engagement in care planning and strategies to support healthcare providers’ decision-making and use of best practice knowledge in long-term care.

Optimizing Dementia Care through Online Education for Unregulated Care Providers Across Canada
AND
Online Education on Continence Care for Personal Support Workers
Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Lauren completed her BSc in Honors Kinesiology with a minor in Gerontology at the University of Waterloo and a MA in Kinesiology at Western University. ?Before coming to the College in 2017, she worked in various research and care capacities in community, acute and long-term care settings and military defence. In her current position, Lauren helps to manage projects with researchers, educators, care providers and businesses to develop and implement best practices and supporting education and technology for seniors’ care.

Panel: Attracting and Engaging Residents
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Amy D’Aprix is a gerontological social worker who is an internationally renowned expert on lifestyle issues relating to caregiving, retirement, aging, and family dynamics. “Dr. Amy”, as she is affectionately known, uses her 30+ years of professional experience in working with, and on behalf of, older adults and their families to give down-to-earth, practical, and professionally informed guidance and advice.
She has authored the book From Surviving to Thriving: Transforming Your Caregiving Journey, and co-recorded a CD with an accompanying workbook: Building the Bonds of Friendship in Midlife and Beyond. She is also the creator of the Life Memories Journal and Caring Cards to inspire more meaningful intergenerational conversations. Dr. Amy is a frequent guest on radio and TV shows and has written numerous articles for print and online publications.
She sits on the Board of Directors of the International Federation on Ageing. Amy holds an MSW, Ph.D and the designation of Certified Professional Consultant on Aging (CPCA). In addition to her professional and academic experience, Dr. Amy spent a decade caregiving for her own parents.

The Rejected – Providing a New Chapter in Life for Those Labelled “High Behaviour Risk”
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Donna Dalupan is the Clinical Lead Support for the Enhanced Support Neighbourhood at Erin Mills Lodge. She works closely with hospital and community partners to assess new admissions and to facilitate the discharge of residents into Long-Term Care Homes. With 17 years in clinical nursing roles at Schlegel Villages, Donna has a wealth of experience to draw upon to support residents, families and the clinical team.

Fit to Fame (Community Fitness Initiative)
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Lyndi Dougherty began her career in seniors living as a co-op student in 2006, and went on to attend Guelph University, receiving a Bachelor of Applied Science in the Adult Development program specializing in gerontology. As the volunteer coordinator at The Village of Riverside Glen she hopes to use her knowledge working in various senior’s care roles to enhance the experience of volunteers and break down the stigma of aging.

Design Insights for Creating Healthy Buildings
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Susan Drew is Market Segment Manager – Senior Living for Altro Americas. A graduate of U of A’s School of Business with 20 years’ experience in the construction industry, Susan understands the importance of human centered design and product development. In the past 7 years, she has collaborated with end users and the A&D community accumulating insight and finding solutions in the built environment that benefit our most vulnerable populations.

Moving Forward Together: Ending ‘Us vs. Them’ Discussions with Families
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Breanne Drury, RD MScEd., Corporate Dietitian for Seasons Care Dietitian Network, has expertise and advanced education in seniors’ health, interdisciplinary palliative care and palliative care communication. With almost two decades of health and industry experience, she has gained significant exposure through her work in long-term care, clinical, and consulting roles.

Shining a Light on the Future of Seniors’ Care
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Donna Duncan is an experienced public sector board member and executive, with extensive experience in health care and academics. Donna is the Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario Long Term Care Association, the largest association representing long-term care providers in Canada. Prior to taking on this role, Donna served as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of The Ontario Caregiver Organization where she led the organization’s start-up operations, building a foundation for new leadership and a provincial board to lead the development of services and supports for Ontario’s family caregivers.
Donna has deep understanding of Ontario’s hospital and community mental health services. She served as President and CEO of the Hincks-Dellcrest Centre, Toronto’s largest children’s mental health treatment, research and teaching centre and a University of Toronto community affiliate. Donna led Hincks-Dellcrest through transformational change and extensive programmatic and quality improvements, culminating in Hincks-Dellcrest’s integration with The Hospital for Sick Children in 2017. Earlier in her career, Donna played a key role in securing the approvals for the transformational redevelopment of The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) Queen Street campus.
Donna also has extensive experience within government, having worked with federal and provincial ministers.
Donna has a deep commitment to volunteerism and governance. She sits on the Boards of the Canadian Long-Term Care Association (CALTC), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and the Global Ageing Network. In the past, Donna sat on the Boards of The Ontario Caregiver Organization, Children’s Mental Health Ontario, and the Kids Brain Health Network. She also chaired the Board of Seneca College and the provincial College Employer Council.

Resident and Employee Engagement – Planning for now and the Future
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Brian has over 25 years of executive leadership and management in food & support services in senior living. Brian has been with the Avendra Group for over 25 years and is currently the Vice President & General Manager for Complete Purchasing Services Inc. Brian is a member of the Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals (SOCAP), and has been involved in extensive research projects on customer satisfaction and consumer insights Brian often speaks about market research & trends in senior living.

Supply Chain Challenges & Food Inflation
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Sarah Emmerton is the Vice President of Healthcare and Senior Living at Sysco Canada. Leading a very talented team, she oversees food service supply to over 60% of the Healthcare customers in Canada. As a team, they focus on listening to their customers’ needs and providing valuable solutions to help them succeed.
Over her 23-year career at Sysco, Sarah has gained industry leading experience in account management, business development, marketing and foodservice management technology. She is passionate about the healthcare industry and is delighted to be sharing this passion as she leads the team at Sysco.
Sarah is a Registered Dietitian with a degree from the University of Western Ontario and a Dietetic Internship from Hamilton Health Sciences.

Panel: Addressing Family Perspectives and Forging Partnerships
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Retirement Rooms
12:00 am – 3:00 pm

As VP of Operations with Lifetimes Living, Cindy oversees the operations of fifteen Retirement properties in Ontario. She is passionate about servant leadership and personalized attention for the communities she serves and the team she leads. With a background in recreation, sales, retail, culinary and hospitality before falling in love with Senior Living, she takes joy in empowering others to flourish. And in watching the Maple Leafs win.

The Digital Future of Long-Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Stuart Feldman is the GM of PointClickCare’s Canadian division. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing all PointClickCare’s Canadian market opportunities, working closely with various associations, partners, customers, prospects, and Government stakeholders to ensure consistent growth for senior care across Canada. Stuart is a seasoned healthcare professional with over 15 years’ experience in the industry.

The Rejected – Providing a New Chapter in Life for Those Labelled “High Behaviour Risk”
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Jefferdie has over 12 years of experience working in Long Term Care and Retirement Home. In his current role as Neighbourhood Coordinator, he supports a cross-functional team in a Resident Centred environment and ensures residents and families are provided with a positive customer experience. He emigrated from the Philippines in 2007 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication and found his passion in health care, 2 years after moving to Canada.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Systems to Support and Promote Communication for People with Aphasia
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Shawna is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with over 10-years of experience using applied behaviour analysis (ABA) with individuals with acquired and developmental disabilities across the lifespan. Shawna has previously worked as the supervisor of an intensive aphasia program and currently is a Clinical Director at Evergreen Communication Therapy. She is passionate about improving the quality of life for people with disabilities including autism and aphasia through evidence-based teaching strategies.

Preventing Outbreaks on a Daily Basis AND What can go wrong with Cleaning and Disinfection?
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Jim is a medical laboratory technologist by training, having worked in hospital laboratories across Canada. He was first board certified in infection control in 1990. Jim has worked in both acute care and non-acute care, and has consulted to medical clinics (physician, dental, optometrists), long-term care, schools (teachers, students, custodial staff), public health and the funeral industry. Jim has lectured widely in North America and has presented at conferences in England, Malta, New Zealand, Germany, France and Hong Kong.

An Ecosystem Approach for Smart Care Technology in the Real World
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

With over 25 years’ experience, Christian is an expert in the field of digital care. Working at both strategic and operational levels, Christian has extensive knowledge of integrated retirement communities, supported housing, health and social care, enabling technology, commissioning, and service redesign. He develops integrated visions and strategies which fundamentally promote health, wellbeing, and independence through the appropriate use of assistive technology.

Legal Update on the New Legislation Affecting Long-Term Care and Retirement Home Operators
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
10:45 am – 11:45 am

David chairs the Torkin, Manes’ Health Care Institutions Group and co-chairs its Health Law Group. David’s civil litigation practice focuses on health law, commercial litigation, and professional liability. He regularly appears before courts, boards and tribunals on issues which involve the health care sector. David also participated as one of the counsel at the Justice Gillese Long Term Care Homes Inquiry. He lectures extensively on health law issues to both lawyers and health care professionals.

Untapped Potential: Technology Innovations in Senior Living
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

John has 15 years’ experience in the software and technology industry. With a focus in operations, automations, and data analysis, John’s goal has been to provide clients guidance for personalized best practices by understanding and utilizing the proper software tools, techniques, and data flow to improve efficiency while decreasing their technical debt.

The Digital Future of Long-Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Dr. Doris Grinspun is Chief Executive Officer of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO), the professional association representing RNs, NPs and nursing students in Canada’s most populous province.
Dr. Doris Grinspun is an extraordinary nursing leader widely recognized at home and abroad. She is since 1996 the CEO of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO), the professional association representing registered nurses, nurse practitioners. and nursing students in Ontario, Canada. Dr. Grinspun is the founder and visionary of RNAO’s internationally renowned Best Practice Guidelines Program and a leading figure in Canadian and international health and nursing policy.

Turning the Tide on Student Placements by Supporting the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Stacey Guy, PhD, is a Knowledge Broker at the Baycrest hosted Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation for Long-Term Care. Dr. Guy is passionate about improving the services we receive as users of the healthcare system. I use knowledge translation and implementation science to facilitate community engagement, behaviour change, and system change. Stacey has a PhD in Health & Rehabilitation Science from Western.

Shining a Light on the Future of Seniors’ Care
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Cathy Hecimovich is a respected healthcare CEO with more than 20 years of experience in the planning and provision of better integrated, high-quality and safe patient care. Cathy was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario Retirement Communities Association (ORCA) in 2018.
Cathy brings to ORCA her extensive experience in home and community care at the senior leader and CEO level. She is passionate about health system integration and has cultivated collaborative partnerships across acute, primary and community care in order to ensure seniors have access to the best possible care options. She actively engages with many provincial-level committees and Boards, bringing her leadership and governance expertise to the table.
Cathy holds both a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Physiotherapy and a Masters in Education. She is also an Assistant Professor at McMaster University with the DeGroote School of Business and the School of Rehabilitation Sciences. Cathy is a graduate of the Advanced Healthcare Leadership Program through the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, is a Certified Healthcare Executive with the Canadian College of Health Leaders and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Person-Centered Advance Care Planning and LTC Resident Outcomes: Results from the BABEL Trial
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

George Heckman is a geriatrician and internist, who practices in a variety of settings from acute to primary to long-term care. He specializes in cardiovascular disease in older persons and disease management. He holds the Schlegel Research Chair in Geriatric Medicine, and is Associate Professor in the School of Public Health Sciences at the University of Waterloo.

Voices from the Frontline: Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Pandemic for Environmental Services
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

With over 30-years, in operations, marketing, business development, and general management through healthcare environmental hygiene. With a leadership CV of over 570 facilities, including hospitals, LTC facilities, and ambulatory care centers. Mark has recruited, trained, and mentored hundreds of healthcare environments and support service leaders. In 2009, Mark became the formative executive leader of North America’s largest, publicly operated EVS organization for Alberta Health Services. Skill set includes clinical environmental hygiene, infection prevention/control, marketing, people-centric transformational change, operations, and finance.

Optimizing Dementia Care through Online Education for Unregulated Care Providers Across Canada AND Online Education on Continence Care for Personal Support Workers in Long Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Michelle Heyer started her career as a Nurses’ Aide. She graduated from Conestoga College’s PN program before completing her BScN and MSc at McMaster University. As Chair, Seniors Care at Conestoga College, she helps to prepare care providers to support older adults with complex needs through gerontological research and education. Michelle is also the Acting President of Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) Waterloo chapter and RNAO Best Practice Spotlight Organization lead at Conestoga College.

Panel: Attracting and Engaging Residents
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Often introduced as the “marketing guru” of the seniors’ housing industry, Heather is one of a small number of marketing consultants in Canada who specialize in marketing and communications targeted to the older adult. Her niche is in developing strategies and programs which resonate with the 55+ consumer, with a special emphasis on older adults in the accommodation & care sector. Through her company, Greenhouse Marketing, she and her seasoned colleagues provide services ranging from marketing, to sales management, and recruiting.
Heather has served as President & CEO of Greenhouse since 2007, the Senior Vice President of Marketing for Revera, Vice President of Marketing for Lifestyle Retirement Communities, Director of Marketing for the Dynacare Health Group and the Manager of Marketing and Public Relations for Beacon Hill Lodges.

The Digital Future of Long-Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Dr. Hirdes is a Professor in the School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo. He is Chair of the University’s Committee on Student Mental Health (CoSMH). In addition, he is the Senior Canadian Fellow and a Board Member of interRAI (***.interRAI.org), an international consortium of researchers from over 35 countries. He chairs interRAI’s Network for Mental Health and the interRAI Network of Canada. As well, Dr. Hirdes is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences.
Dr. Hirdes has over 230+ publications in peer reviewed journals and academic book chapters. His primary areas of interest include assessment, mental health, aging, health care and service delivery, case mix systems, quality measurement, health information management, and quantitative research methods.
In 2012, Dr. Hirdes received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his work on long term care through the Canadian Home Care Association and the Canadian Association on Gerontology.

The OLTCA Pension Plan: Helping Your Employees Save and You to Stay on Budget
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Mr. Hopkins has over 8 years of experience in the group retirement industry and joined The Leslie Group in November of 2015. Mr. Hopkins most recent experience was as an Associate Client Manager and Client Relations specialist with a consulting firm and has experience with group retirement clients ranging from 100 to over 100,000 members. Mr. Hopkins has an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Toronto.

The Continuing Impact of COVID-19 on the Workplace-Emerging Issues in the New Normal
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Gillian provides counsel to employers and businesses in all workplace, labour and employment law related matters. Gillian acts for employers in unionized and non-unionized work environments. This includes advisory work, representing employers in litigation proceedings before courts and administrative tribunals, handling labour relations matters, conducting collective bargaining and interest arbitration, drafting and negotiating contracts, and assisting with transactional work relating to employment and labour issues.

Fit to Fame (Community Fitness Initiative)
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Moez Jamal started his career in senior living in 2012 as a Kinesiologist and as a Falls Management lead for Schlegel Villages Erin Meadows. Moez graduated from the University of Guelph with an Honours degree in Applied Health Sciences in Kinesiology. He has been working passionately at Erin Meadows with seniors, improving their quality of life through the promotion of physical activities and reaching their individual goals and aspirations.

Shining a Light on the Future of Seniors’ Care
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

David has been active in the family business from the very beginning, working his way up the ranks to his current role as President of an organization which now includes 14 long-term care homes and 8 retirement lodges throughout Ontario.
As a student employee, he worked as an aide in the housekeeping, dietary and laundry departments of the original Jarlette long-term care home, a 23-room farm house in Midland, Ontario. He completed his education in nursing, as well as Long-Term Care Organization and Management, and eventually began his professional career within Jarlette Health Services as the administrator of a home. Like his father, as David became more active in the organization he also assumed volunteer roles, including within the Ontario Long Term Care Association (OLTCA). Advocating on behalf of the seniors the Association serves, David’s roles have included Vice President and Secretary-Treasurer and he has chaired numerous committees, including the Strategic Planning Committee, the Labour Relations Committee, the Budget Committee, and the Pension Committee.
David has also volunteered as Vice President of the Healthcare Health and Safety Association of Ontario. He continues to be an active spokesperson at Association events and meetings, continuing to advance the care for the residents we serve.
A native of beautiful Penetanguishene, David and his wife Alison, continue to reside in their hometown, where they raised four children, all of whom are now actively engaged in the day-to-day operations of Jarlette Health Services. David enjoys keeping active and is often seen biking to work on his mountain bike or motorcycle.

The Digital Future of Long-Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Deborah is a Masters prepared Registered Nurse with over 20 years’ experience in long term care. Currently Deborah is the Director, Canadian Healthcare Strategy with PointClickCare. In her current role Deborah works with customers and partners of long term care homes promoting the use of technology to optimize work flow.

Panel: Attracting and Engaging Residents
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Gail retired from the Trillium Lakelands District School Board at 50, where she was a transportation clerk. Prior to that, she was a secretary in the elementary and secondary school system in Lindsay and Oshawa.
Gail has lived in the City of Kawartha Lakes since 1980. She has two married sons and five lovely granddaughters. She moved into Adelaide Place Retirement Community in April 2021 and was recently welcomed as a member of the Residents’ Council where she is an assistant secretary. In her spare time, Gail attends ‘trivia’ sessions, takes part in strength exercises, and works in the library at Adelaide Place, and on her Family Tree through Ancestry.

WOW – Elevating the Dining Experience
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Alex is a Registered Dietitian and Innovation Specialist with Gordon Food Service Canadian Healthcare Nutrition Resource Centre. She is a passionate young professional who received both her BaSc and Masters of Applied Nutrition from the University of Guelph. With a decade of experience in various settings in the food industry, she brings a unique perspective to her role as a Dietitian. With her creative mind and foodie heart, she loves sharing delicious ways to prepare food that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. A strong believer in the power of teamwork and great customer service, she loves working alongside her team at GFS to create innovative solutions and tasty inspiration for their clients.

Therapeutic Recreation Program Roll-Out
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

My name is Ranvir Kaur and I am a compassionate Recreation Therapist with a clinical background who believe in increasing the quality of life of seniors with non-pharmacological interventions. I have diploma in Therapeutic Recreation and degree in Health Science. I have experience working with seniors in different settings (hospitals, retirement, and long-term care homes) and currently employed as Recreation Therapist BSO at Hawthorn Woods Care Community.

Fit to Fame (Community Fitness Initiative)
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Sami Kermani has been in Recreation and Social Services field for over twenty years, including is Director of Recreation in Schlegel Villages for the past fifteen years. Sami is a Pioneer Network Conference presenter in 2017, Chicago, Illinois.

Untapped Potential: Technology Innovations in Senior Living
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

From his time in restaurant management, retail sales, and healthcare food service, Ricky Keys has over 27 years of hospitality experience. Ricky started with Common CENTS Solutions implementing POS and room service systems. He is currently the Regional Sales Manager for most states west of the Mississippi. His expertise extends from systems design, technical troubleshooting, and simplifying complex workflow to regularly giving presentations on cash and technological management, helping customers save time and increase their bottom line.

Creating a Culture Change Toolkit
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Kristie is a strategic marketing manager with experience building partnerships and connecting with audiences across a variety of sectors. She holds an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier University, and is currently the Engagement Manager at the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging (RIA). She is looking forward to hearing from organizations seeking innovative education opportunities focused on culture change, dementia and dining.

The Continuing Impact of Covid-19 on the Workplace-Emerging Issues in the New Normal
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Irv acts for employers in both the public and private sector, and has represented employers in the hospitality, manufacturing, transportation, health care, education, automotive and retail sectors. Irv’s practice includes providing counsel and representing employers during union organizing campaigns, in union certification proceedings and unfair labour practice proceedings before the Ontario Labour Relations Board. Irv has also been lead spokesperson for employers who must engage in collective bargaining with most unions in Ontario. He represents management clients in rights and interest arbitrations, Human Rights complaints, Employment Standards complaints, Pay Equity disputes, and wrongful dismissal litigation. Irv is frequently appointed to sit on Boards of Arbitration as the employer-side nominee in interest arbitrations that are conducted under the Hospital Labour Disputes Arbitration Act.

Fit to Fame (Community Fitness Initiative)
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00pm

John Knox is an old soul who was born at a young age, and from his early years focused on community building, and on surrounding himself with seniors. His joyful team spirit lifts up residents, and all those with whom he interacts in the senior living community. Schlegel Villages’ senior executives have referred to him as the heart of Erin Meadows.
Degree: Therapeutic Recreation; host of the Sharing Life @sharinglifepodcast; Documentarist: “Healing the Heart”.

Addressing Mental Well-Being Through Online Engagement and Technology
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Lawrence Kosick was raised in Vancouver, Canada where his father founded a non-profit assisted living facility for older adults. Lawrence grew up amazed by the wisdom of the residents. Before co-founding GetSetUp, Lawrence oversaw Business Development and Partnerships for IFTTT, an IoT Connectivity Platform. He also led Sight Machine’s Asian Pacific business operations and was VP of Global Partnerships at Yahoo during its early years. Lawrence is pleased to continue the work his father started.

Tapping into Resident Spirituality as a Resource for Community Resilience & Support
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Jane Kuepfer, RP, PhD, MDiv, is the Schlegel Specialist in Spirituality and Aging with the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging and Conrad Grebel University College. She is a spiritual director, an ordained minister, and a registered psychotherapist, and serves as a spiritual care provider in a retirement home. Jane coordinates an annual Spirituality and Aging Seminar, conducts research, and teaches graduate courses. She recently convened, online, the 9th International Conference on Ageing & Spirituality.

The Digital Future of Long-Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Andriana Lukich is the Director, Digital Solutions at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. She holds a HBSc Kinesiology and an MBA from McMaster University, a PMP certification and is Prosci Change Management certified. Throughout her decade of healthcare experience, she has held multiple roles all focused on leading change initiatives and supporting staff through transformational projects. The digital projects she has championed include enabling virtual care between patients and providers; rapidly developing a COVID-19 screening tool for staff, patients and visitors; creating a city-wide patient self-scheduling tool to support booking of COVID-19 tests; and supporting the implementation of COVID-19 Assessment Centres. Andriana’s commitment to digital transformation has attracted support and spurred innovation across Canada.

The Rejected – Providing a New Chapter in Life for Those Labelled “High Behaviour Risk”
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Heather is passionate about creating a world where people living with dementia and other brain changes feel accepted, included, and supported to experience well-being. Bridges are built through a relational model of support where residents are people, not tasks and every interaction is an opportunity to connect and partner together. Walking alongside residents living with dementia, team members and family members means real life shapes best practice and creates moments of shared learning and growth.

Immersion of Alzheimer’s with The Virtual Dementia Tour
Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Veronique Maillot, Certified VDT Trainer, Seasons Senior Executive in the Senior Housing Industry specialize in Memory care, Teacher, Owner of Agence VIVA dementia consulting, GPA, Eden Philosophy, Caregiver.
Over 30 years in the senior Housing industry; CRC, Executive Director, Regional Sale Coach. For the last six year of her career in Senior Housing, Veronique specifically concentrated on Memory Care services.
Veronique is also a teacher in Management for Senior Housing Industry.

Sexuality & Dementia: Implementing an Introductory E-Learning Module
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Dr. Rosemarie Mangiardi has a PhD in Education from the University of Alberta. Her focus of study was on sexual health education. Currently, she is the Quality Improvement and Knowledge Translation Facilitator for the Frail Seniors Strategy and South West Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO). As part of this role, she is a Co-Lead of the BSO Sexual Expression and Aging Working Group. Rosemarie is dedicated to educating healthcare providers about ways to engage with adults living with dementia so they can live with meaning and dignity.

Fundamentals of Infection Control in LTC & Senior Living for the IPAC Lead AND Fundamentals of Infection Control in LTC & Senior Living for Environmental Services
Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room AND Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Speaker Bio is coming soon!

Addressing Staffing Shortages Through Effective Claims Management
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

In 2002, Dallas founded Dallas Mercer Consulting (DMC) offering Disability Management services. As an employer advocate, she added efficiency to their claims process; saving clients time and money, allowing them to focus on their core business. Dallas is committed to ensuring the vision of the company is maintained. “I started my business to help employers navigate the complex disability management claims process, and this remains my focus”, she says.

Halal Diets and Fasting in Ramadan
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Dilkhas Mosa has passion for seniors nutrition and has been working as a consulting Dietitian in Long Term Care for over 10 years with Seasons Care Dietitian Network. She also enjoys teaching as a preceptor and as a Professor at Conestoga College in the Food Service Worker Program.
Dilkhas has a Bachelor of Science (Human Ecology) degree from The University of Western Ontario and completed her Dietetic internship at the London Health Sciences Centre in 2009.

The Leader Staff Want Today
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Jim Moss is the Executive Director of YMCA WorkWell – a new initiative by the YMCA of Three Rivers focused on improving workplace well-being in the communities we serve – and beyond. But first and foremost, Jim is a father of 3 and a proud husband. He has been inducted into four different Hall of Fames for sports and business and won multiple gold-medals representing Canada internationally in 3 sports, though he also likes to point out that he’s lost many more than he has won. Jim is a top-rated public speaker and was named one of Canadian Business Magazine’s Innovators of the Year in 2016.
Jim holds a deep understanding and respect for behavioural sciences, data collection, and applied research and pairs that with a unique combination of communication skills allowing him to connect easily with everyone from kindergarten students to CEOs. He has a particular talent for making otherwise complicated subjects simple to understand and approachable. These talents support him on his professional mission to improve people’s health and happiness wherever they work, learn, or play.
Together, YMCA WorkWell partners with purpose-driven organizations across Canada to help them collect employee feedback and action those insights, as well as deliver training, coaching and strategic consulting to create lasting positive change in the workplace. Because at YMCA WorkWell, we believe that well-being is everything.

Untapped Potential: Technology Innovations in Senior Living
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Bob Moulson is the Director of Professional Services & Corporate RD at Complete Purchasing Services. Prior to working at Complete Purchasing Services, he has worked in food distribution as a Dietitian Manager, as a clinical RD in long-term care and as a diet technician in acute care foodservice. He presented on procurement policy at the Ontario Sodium Summit in 2012 and has extensive experience building menus and supporting healthcare foodservice software systems for senior living homes across the country.

An Ecosystem Approach for Smart Care Technology in the Real World
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Roeland is an entrepreneur with over €1b exit value realized, with a PhD in psychology, an MBA, and master degrees in linguistics and law. A former board member of Belgian elderly care market leader Armonea, Roeland was also CEO of One Smart Control. Driven by a desire for impactful innovation, Roeland co-founded Nobi in 2018 with a mission to empower the elderly to live happily and independently at home, wherever that is.

From Surviving to Thriving: Care Strategies that Work & Improve Resident Outcomes
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

With fourteen years of LTC, PSW experience, five as Behavioral Support Lead, Jessica’s seen many joys and challenges experienced by people living with dementia and their caregivers. Adept at assessing and supporting difficult situations, she enjoys leading sessions on dynamic skill use and improved direct care techniques for hands-on care partners. Jessica trained with dementia expert, Teepa Snow, and believes that Positive Approach to Care skills are fundamental interpersonal tools that improve understanding, communication, and quality of life for all.

Attracting New Talent: A National Pilot Project
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Praveeni Perera, MBA, PMP, is a Senior Program Officer at Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) and leads the implementation of their Supportive Care Assistant Program. She is an experienced project manager having worked on a wide rage of initiatives ranging from IT to international development and education. Prior to joining CICan she worked for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and represented Canada at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. She also worked as a Project Manager at Algonquin College and currently teaches part-time in School of Business.

The Digital Future of Long-Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Dr. Dan Perri is the Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO), Medical Director of Utilization and Medication Management, and Staff Intensivist at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. In his role as CMIO, Dr. Perri works towards the implementation and evaluation of digital technologies to enhance effective and efficient patient care.

Future Proofing Mental Health During Emergencies: Innovative & Promising Protective Practices from the Pandemic
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Rebekah Peterson, MSW, RSW, has over 10 years clinical experience within the LTC sector, as well as policy focused project management work with the LTC Division of Peel Region. In 2017, Rebekah applied this experience as a Consultant with Age-Wise Solutions Inc. and is now Clinical Lead, working with LTC partners to design and implement social work programs to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. She is also a member of the OASW LTC Subcommittee.

Sexuality & Dementia: Implementing an Introductory E-Learning Module
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Dr. Pianosi holds a Ph.D. in Psycho-Gerontology from Germany and has completed two M.A. programs (in Human Development and in Psycho-Gerontology). She is a Credentialed Professional Gerontologist (C.P.G.) with the National Association for Professional Gerontologists. Until recently, Birgit was an Associate Professor in the Gerontology Department at Huntington University in Sudbury, Canada (2001 to 2021). She is currently a part-time faculty member in the Gerontology Program at Laurentian University and owns the consulting firm “Lively-Aging”. Birgit is a Co-Lead of the Behavioural Supports Ontario Sexual Expression and Aging Working Group, collaborating to build an evidence-informed, values-based open-access online modular education program to reduce stigma stemming from sexual expression and intimacy of older LGBTQ2S+ and heteronormative adults with dementia.

A Good Day: The Positive Impact Therapeutic Recreation Professionals Have with Residents and Interdisciplinary Team
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Katherine Plested is a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist with her R/TRO designation. For the past 14 years Katherine has been practicing at St. Joseph’s Health Care- London; presently, at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care leading the Therapeutic Recreation practice.
She has been on the executive board of directors for Therapeutic Recreation Ontario for the past 5 years; president for 2 terms, presently in the past president role and chair of the TRO Advocacy Committee.

Addressing Mental Well-Being Through Online Engagement and Technology
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Working with seniors has been Taimi’s career focus and passion for over 35 years. She has held leadership roles throughout this time in operations and sales. In 2018, she became a Certified Forest Therapy Guide, through the Association of Forest and Nature Therapy. She offers a sensory immersive experience, through her online program of ‘Wayfarer Mindfulness in Nature’. It is a specialized virtual series developed by Senior Living Experts, a Certified Forest Therapy Guide, and Residents of a Retirement Community.

Working with What You Have: How to Build Resiliency into Our Existing Long-Term Care Now
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Adam Ramage is an Associate at Montgomery Sisam Architects. He is exceptionally knowledgeable in the design and deliver of complex renovation work in highly sensitive environments. For the last several years, he has served as Project Manager for the City of Toronto Long-term Care Homes & Services Capital Maintenance Program, working closely with the municipality to better understand its buildings and introduce new strategies and systems to optimize their performance and the wellbeing of users.

Virtual Care Planning with Residents and Families of Long-Term Care Homes During COVID-19
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

I graduated from the PN program at St Clair College in 2018 & started working as an RPN at Copper Terrace in 2019. In January 2021 I was promoted to the Management team on an interim basis to assist during the pandemic, I have since become an IPAC specialist. It’s been an honor to be part of this Research Team as I believe integrating virtual meetings with care partners and residents has transformed our home to provide improved quality of care.

Think Big, Build Small: Small Home Opportunities for Ontario’s LTC Homes AND Working with What You Have: How to Build Resiliency into Our Existing Long-Term Care Now
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Tony Ross is an award-winning architect and Principal of Canadian-based design firm Montgomery Sisam. Tony’s body of work is wide-ranging. For nearly a decade, a core component of his practice has been designing and delivering complex projects in seniors housing. His latest focus is supporting new and evolving models of long-term care, working with many prolific gerontological researchers across Canada to create more resilient and responsive homes for elderly seniors and their caregivers.

Rail Compliance Done Right: How to Properly Audit Bed Rails to Prevent Entrapment
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services & Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Rooms
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

As Director of Technical Services, Rob has nearly 20 years of quality, manufacturing, technical, and logistics experience in Canadian and American healthcare. His extensive background in support services and diagnostics keeps him customer focused and working to provide positive and immediate solutions to problems at all acuity levels. Rob is the lead for all Health Canada/FDA Rail Compliance projects for meeting standards in patient entrapment and modernized bed system safety as a whole.

Building LTC Culture that Embraces Family Caregivers as Partners in Care
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lisa Salapatek is the Executive Lead, Strategic Partnerships and Innovation with the Ontario Caregiver Organization. Lisa has held a diverse range of senior leadership roles in the non-profit health sector that reflect her passion for leading positive change and enhancing the caregiver experience. Throughout her career, she has led the development of many successful programs, partnerships and policy initiatives that have had an impact on health care delivery and quality of life.

Organizational Resilience: A Guide to Support Recruitment and Retention
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Samantha Salatino is a nurse consultant for WeRPN’s Organizational Workplace Guidebook. Samantha has a background in areas such as clinical nursing, and research. Samantha has most recently completed the Canadian Patient Safety Officer Program with the Canadian Patient Safety Institute, and is currently completing a Master of Science in Healthcare Quality degree at Queen’s University.

WOW – Elevating the Dining Experience
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Kaila earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with Honours at Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. She is a Registered Dietitian and holds seven years of experience working various roles within long-term care; including, Food Production Supervisor, Clinical Dietitian, Administrative Dietitian and Manager of Food & Nutrition Services. In addition to years of experience in a healthcare setting, Kaila also holds fundamental culinary skills & a broad food-based knowledge as she herself has worked as a cook in various commercial kitchens. As a member of the GFS Nutrition Resource Centre (NRC) Team, she utilizes her hands-on experience & unique skillset in food operations to support healthcare customers across Canada.

Advocating for Change – Proposed Regulatory Changes and the Impact on Seniors Nutrition Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Stacey Scaman is a Corporate Dietitian at Seasons Care Dietitian Network, supporting over 50 Dietitians and 4 LTC Corporations. She is responsible for supporting Dietitians and Nutrition Managers, providing dietary support, policy and program planning and providing education to LTC Homes Ontario wide. Stacey is also the co-chair of the Ontario Seniors Nutrition & Advocacy Committee (OSNAC) and leads the Food & Nutrition Advisory Team (FNAT). These groups advocate for improved standards in Foodservice and Nutrition in LTC.

An eLearning Curriculum to Enhance Bathing of Persons with Responsive Behaviours in Long-Term Care Homes
Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Dr. Lori Schindel Martin is a full professor in the Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing at X [Ryerson] University, Toronto. She is a mixed methods researcher and advanced practice nurse. Her research focuses on the development of theory-driven, inter-professional education programs that enhance best practices related to dementia behavior such as reluctance for bathing and sexual expression. Her work includes building and testing standardized dementia behaviour observation tools to measure impact of non-pharmacological interventions.

Tapping into Resident Spirituality as a Resource for Community Resilience & Support
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Chi-Ping Loreta Sinn completed her BSc in Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo in 2021. Supervised by Jane Kuepfer, Loreta’s undergraduate research project, A Qualitative Study of Spiritual Resilience in Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic, aimed to explore the lived faith experiences of retirement living older adults. Her current research interests include aging and spirituality, ageism, and intergenerational relationships.

Redefining Our Approach to Care: Dancing Through Activities of Daily Living
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Emily Sitter MHA (CC), CTRS, received her Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation and Psychology minor from Brock University. She is also a graduate alumni from the Ted Rogers School of Management. As an allied health professional, Emily has over five years of clinical experience in long-term, community, and post-acute care. She is motivated to further integrate arts-based programming into healthcare, identify barriers to accessing quality, client-centered care and contribute to an integrated care model.

The Future of Work
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Gillian Smith was appointed as managing partner of NATIONAL’s Toronto office in October 2020. Gillian has more than 20 years of experience in public relations and strategic communications. Over the course of her career, she has held senior positions with multiple organizations in the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors including RBC, Aeroplan, the Toronto Region Board of Trade and the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. Before joining NATIONAL, she was working at her own consulting agency, acting as a senior advisor with a portfolio of C-suite and Board clients across multiple industries, including healthcare, technology, financial services and energy. Gillian Smith serves as a board director with the Ontario Science Centre, TO Live, Toronto Arts Foundation, Business and the Arts, the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund and The Walrus Foundation. She also ran for the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario in the 2018 provincial election.

Turning the Tide on Student Placements by Supporting the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Natalie Spence is an Education Coordinator with Ontario Centres for Learning Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care at Bruyère (Ontario CLRI). With years of bedside nursing, preceptorship and clinical instructing experience, she has gained significant experience working with older adults in the sub-acute hospital and LTC setting. In her role at Ontario CLRI, she works with project leads and communications team members to support the LTC sector with education and knowledge translation activities.

The Future of Work
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Mark has been with Revera for the past 12 years in various portfolios with HR. He is currently the head of Human Resources and Communications for Revera Canada’s Retirement and Long Term Care managed business.
Prior to Revera, Mark broad experience across most areas of HRM practice in a variety of industry sectors including transportation, financial services and retail.
He is married with two children and lives in Toronto.

Working with What You Have: How to Build Resiliency into Our Existing Long-Term Care Now
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Venkat is an Associate Principal and Seniors Mechanical Project Manager at Crossey Engineering Limited. He has more than 30 years experience in mechanical systems design, production, management, site supervision and contract administration. His work spans several sectors, with a large concentration of projects in health and long-term care. Venkat has been a trusted partner to Montgomery Sisam for many years now, helping guide the City of Toronto Long-term Care Homes & Services Capital Maintenance Program.

Future Proofing Mental Health During Emergencies: Innovative & Promising Protective Practices from the Pandemic
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Susan Steels, MSW, RSW, has over 25 years experience working with older adults and their family and caregivers in acute care and community-based settings. She recently retired from Southlake Regional Health Centre, where she was the Clinical Leader, Geriatric Outreach Services. She is an RNAO Best Practice Champion, Executive Committee member of the Prevention of Elder Abuse Committee of York Region, and Co-chair of the OASW LTC Subcommittee.

Panel: Attracting and Engaging Residents
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Judy was born in Pennsylvania, and worked as a nurse at St. Joseph’s in Hamilton. In the early seventies, Judy moved to Quebec where she went to Concordia University and was the Executive Director of a widowed resource centre. Actively involved in community work with seniors and pastoral animation, Judy was also a Lay Parish Minister for 16 years. Judy retired from active employment and moved into The Village of Tansley Woods in 2010. Her hobbies include reading, writing, exercising and enjoying life!

Addressing Mental Well-Being Through Online Engagement and Technology
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Karina has worked as a Recreation Therapist in the senior living industry for over a decade. She started her career in Long Term Care and Day Programs for seniors living with Dementia providing individualized and group therapeutic programming, educational in-service, and caregiver-specific support groups. She transitioned to Assisted and Independent Living to create a Recreation team. Her Engaged In Rec Podcast connects Activity Professionals with the amazing organizations that are able to assist in helping residents meet their wellness goals.

Shining a Light on the Future of Seniors’ Care
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

With over 35 years of experience in seniors housing, Karen was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of Chartwell on March 16, 2020. Karen is responsible for operations and sales for all of Chartwell’s retirement and LTC homes across Canada. Karen originally joined Chartwell in 2008 as the Executive Vice President, People, with oversight for the human resources and labour relations teams. In 2012 she was appointed Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining Chartwell, Karen held progressive positions over a 21 year career at the Ontario Long Term Care Association (OLTCA) including six years as their Executive Director. Karen is also a former VP Government Relations on the Ontario Retirement Communities Association (ORCA) Board of Directors and is a founding member of the Canadian Alliance for Long Term Care (CALTC).

Shining a Light on the Future of Seniors’ Care
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Laura Tamblyn Watts is the Founder and CEO of CanAge, Canada’s national seniors’ advocacy organization. Laura is a passionate advocate on a variety of urgent issues affecting older Canadians, including long-term care and home care, financial security, elder abuse, health care, ageism and inclusion of marginalized communities.
Laura previously served as Chief Public Policy Officer at the Canadian Association of Retired Persons before establishing CanAge at the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic. Since then, CanAge has emerged as a go-to media commentator and trusted voice for Canadian seniors, underscored by Laura’s more than 20 years’ experience defending the rights and dignity of older people as a lawyer and thought-leader.
She is a member of the CSA National Long-Term Care Standards Advisory and Technical committees, and an expert in long-term care and residents’ rights.

From Surviving to Thriving: Care Strategies that Work & Improve Resident Outcomes
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

A retired occupational therapist, Deb is an essential caregiver for her mother in LTC. Curious how dementia impacts the brain; impairing communication, movement, perception, memory, and thinking, Deb practices and trains others in the techniques and strategies of Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care(R). As a Positive Approach to Care(R) Trainer and Coach, she guides family members and care providers in the provision of true relationship-centered care, enabling people living with dementia to thrive, not merely survive.

The Digital Future of Long-Term Care
Monday, April 4, 2022
Main Stage
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Kim is a pharmacist who has worked in various sectors of the healthcare system and has experience with implementing IT and quality improvement initiatives. She has recently joined Point Click Care in the role of Advisory Services Director – Medication Management. She will serve as a subject matter expert and focus on proving outcomes from the implementation of technology towards the betterment of medication management.

An Ecosystem Approach for Smart Care Technology in the Real World
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Phil is passionate about in creating better life experiences by unlocking the potential of technology. As an expert in applying technologies in senior living environments, Phil helps operators set strategy, develop partnerships, and deliver integrated solutions that are customer-centric, easy to use, and secure. His ability to unify operator context with technical expertise produces innovative solutions that drive adoption and are fit to purpose.

Mental Health First Aid Supporting Older Adults: An Innovative Approach
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Denise Waligora has a Bachelor of Science degree and over 20 years of working in the mental health field. Prior to joining the Mental Health Commission as Training and Delivery Specialist for Mental Health First Aid in 2011, Denise’s professional experiences included psychiatric nursing, Residential Program Director, IBI Therapist at CHEO, crisis worker and case manager in a justice program. Denise has been facilitating MHFA since 2008.

You Don’t Have to Outrun the Bear – Design Strategies For Competitiveness
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Retirement Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Mr. Walker has been designing senior living projects for 25 years and also has experience in mixed use, hospitality, retail, and multifamily architecture. Duncan Is based in Baltimore, Maryland and has designed projects throughout the United States, and in Europe and Asia. He has concentrated on bringing new solutions to senior living and has presented at many different national conferences on aging. His projects have won Design for Aging awards on 6 occasions, as well as numerous other national awards.

An eLearning Curriculum to Enhance Bathing of Persons with Responsive Behaviours in Long-Term Care Homes
Monday, April 4, 2022
Clinical/Nursing/PSW/RSAs Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Angel Wang is the Research Coordinator for Advanced Gerontological Education (AGE) Inc. She is a master’s prepared Advanced Practice Nurse, who is passionate about supporting health care personnel in gaining the knowledge and skill to provide high quality, evidence-based dementia care. She is also a Clinical Resource Leader at a community hospital in Toronto, where she advances professional practice and clinical care excellence in the Complex Continuing Care and Rehab department.

The OLTCA Pension Plan: Helping Your Employees Save and You to Stay on Budget
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC Room
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Ms. Warden joined The Leslie Group team with over 10 years of experience in the group retirement industry coupled with extensive experience in client relations. Ms. Warden’s experience in the group retirement industry ranges from plan design and Implementation to full plan administration and consulting of retirement plans ranging in size from 50-100,000.
Ms. Warden successfully obtained the CEBS designation in 2015 and continues to be a Fellow of the International Society of Certified Employee Benefits Specialist.

A Good Day: The Positive Impact Therapeutic Recreation Professionals Have with Residents and Interdisciplinary Team
Monday, April 4, 2022
Recreation and Environmental Services Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Lindsay Webber has been working in the field of Therapeutic Recreation and seniors for almost 30 years. The past 9 years of her career have been working in the long term care environment. Improving the quality of life and quality of living for the people who live in the Osgoode Care Centre is Lindsay’s passion. She is an active member of the TRO advocacy committee to help enhance the future role of recreation and TR in Long Term Care.

Creating a Culture Change Toolkit
Monday, April 4, 2022
Culinary & Nutrition Room
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Dominique Williams is the Culture Change Manager at the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging. A registered social worker, she has been working with teams supporting older adults in Southwestern Ontario for over 10 years. She enjoys challenging deeply held beliefs around aging, older adults and dementia.
Born and raised in Australia, Dominique loves the sun and is still learning to live with Canadian winters.

The Future of Work
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Main Stage
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Tricia Williams brings a strong background across anthropology, sociology and economics disciplines to her role as Future Skills Centre’s Director of Research, Evaluation and Knowledge Mobilization. She has particular expertise in the future of work including digital economies, skills development, migration and gender.
Prior to joining Future Skills Centre, Tricia spent seven years with the Mastercard Foundation, leading research, evaluation and knowledge mobilization initiatives related to youth employment and digital economy across Africa and with Indigenous communities in Canada. 

Positive Impact of Psychological Health and Safety Program in the Workplace Through Managing Psychosocial Factors
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
LTC & Retirement Rooms
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Frances Ziesmann is a consultant for the PSHSA Healthcare Team. She is a Registered Physiotherapist and Canadian Registered Safety Professional. Frances has a Master’s in Health Services Management from McMaster, and both Knowledge Translation and Psychological Health and Safety Professional Certificates. Frances has over 30 years of experience in healthcare OHS with a focus on program development and implementation. She has led several PSHSA prevention initiatives and participated in many provincial PHS and workplace violence prevention and research projects.