Elders concerns to be tackled at symposium

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Seniors and Elders are our most precious resource and an upcoming conference is designed to promote more community-based programs and services for these valued individuals.

The gathering, scheduled for Oct. 3 to 6 in Edmonton, will address issues such as housing, health, Elder abuse, traditional medicines and wellness, support programs and retaining values. Hosted by the city's Native Seniors' Centre, the conference is headlined as a national Aboriginal symposium on aging.

Brenda Blyan is one of the organizers of the event, assisting conference co-ordinator Lyle Donald.

"The board of directors at the Native Seniors' Centre wanted to develop more partnerships with other service delivery agencies in Edmonton, but they also wanted to look at urban models in other cities, from whom we can learn," she said. As a result, keynote speakers include Wayne Helgason, the executive director of the very active and ever-expanding Social Planning Council of Winnipeg, and Sylvia Maracle, executive director of the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres, who has participated in developing the Aboriginal Health Policy for Ontario.

"These folks are well known in the community and their experiences can provide examples of how networking partnerships can happen," she said. Housing is always a big issue, so representatives from the Edmonton Housing Trust Fund, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and Alberta Seniors Housing Program will be present and participating in discussions, she added.

"This will also allow the seniors themselves to speak up about their needs and hopefully something good can come out of it."

Assembly of First Nations regional chief Jason Goodstriker will act as master of ceremonies. Another dignitary hoping to attend is Aboriginal Affairs Minister Pearl Calahasen.

"We have a whole list of attendees and presenters, which will embrace the entire scope of the issues, from people at the grassroots level to the professionals who can make things happen," said Blyan.

Morning workshop sessions will explore home care and bereavement. Keynote addresses will look at housing for seniors, both on and off reserve, and urban Aboriginal seniors support.

The symposium won't be all work, though. Throughout the three days of activities, cultural events are scheduled. A round dance, feast and giveway will be conducted and Metis performers will dance and fiddle to entertain conference participants on Wednesday.

More information can be obtained by calling the Native Seniors' Centre at (780) 476-6595.

"We need to accommodate many needs when it comes down to services required by our aging Aboriginal population," concluded Blyan. Those needs are greatest in the areas of affordable accommodation, health services and transportation.

"The networking that will happen at this conference will result in properly recognizing the years of hard work, dedication and determination that our Elders and seniors have given us, and at the same time will promote the pride of our culture."