Annual Health & Wellness Fair Focuses on Healthy Aging

Elim Village’s 2024 Health & Wellness Fair is coming up October 4, and this signature Elim event promises to be a fun and informative day of learning and community building for residents, staff, and guests.

What began as an annual clinic by nursing students nearly 20 years ago—under the leadership of Marian Heemskerk, Director of Community Life—has evolved into the Health & Wellness Fair we know today. “Our purpose from the start was to provide older adults with valuable education on health and wellbeing,” Heemskerk says. “The Fair is a vibrant event where attendees can immerse themselves in learning and enjoyment, surrounded by fantastic guest speakers, musicians, artists, and more.”

Over its 12-year history, has grown significantly and has featured a diverse range of well-known guest speakers from Dr. Art Hister to Margaret Trudeau to Faith Richardson, among many others. It provides people with a unique opportunity to explore all dimensions of wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual, financial, occupational, environmental, intellectual, and social.

Three years ago, Clara Atagi took on the role of Community Relations & Events Manager—and along with it, the Health & Wellness Fair. According to Heemskerk, Atagi has managed to elevate an already extraordinary event. This year’s Health & Wellness Fair, Healthy Aging: Nurturing the Garden Within, is shaping up to be no exception. “If attendees come away with even one helpful takeaway, we’ve done our job,” says Atagi.

Guest speakers include Terry Small (The Brain Guy) and Dr. Robyn Land, ND, along with special music by Judah Rodway.

“It’s a fun-filled day of discovery and connection with the same core mission: ensuring every participant leaves with a meaningful takeaway that enhances their health and well-being,” Heemskerk says. “Aging presents challenges, and everyone needs to care for their holistic well-being as best as possible. By creatively engaging with the resources available, we can enjoy life to the fullest and maintain a high quality of life.”

What: Health & Wellness Fair – Healthy Aging: Nurturing the Garden Within

When: Friday, October 4, 2024 | 8:30am-3:00pm

Where: The Oasis, Elim Village Fleetwood

Cost: $20/person ($30/person for Garrison Crossing residents, includes transportation)

Ticket Includes: Speakers, Buffet Lunch, Coffee / Tea, Snacks, Prizes, Gift Bag, and the Exhibitor Fair

GUEST SPEAKERS

Terry Small ‘The Brain Guy’ – Nurturing Your Brain Garden

Known as ‘The Brain Guy’, Terry Small, is a master teacher and Canada’s leading learning skills specialist. He has presented on the brain for over 33 years to organizations around the world. Terry believes, “Anyone can learn how to learn easier, better, faster, and that learning to learn is the most important skill a person can acquire.”

Dr. Robyn Land, Naturopathic Doctor – Keep Your Body Moving

Dr. Land is a naturopathic doctor, a yoga instructor, and the founder and co-owner of Local Health Integrative Clinic. Her goal is to support each person on their journey to a place where they are happy, healthy, and able to do the things they are passionate about. Dr. Land believes the foundation of healthcare should be education and empowerment through collaboration and openness.

Marian Heemskerk, Director of Community Life, Elim Village – Nurturing the Garden Within

For more than four decades, Marian has been a pillar of the nursing profession. As a director in an older adult community, she is a beacon of leadership and innovation. Marian’s wealth of expertise and compassionate approach to care shapes the future of aging individuals. Her role is a testament to her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Ticket Purchase Deadline: September 27. For tickets, please call 604-583-3546.

View or download the full schedule here.