Senior Symposium

Presentations & Speakers

• County of Simcoe Age-in-Place Housing Grants

  The Age-Friendly Seniors Housing Grant Program was recommended within the Simcoe County 2018-2023 Positive Aging Strategy, which identified a number of recommendations for the County and its municipalities to prepare for the region's aging population. This program funds projects that incorporate accessible, adaptable and inclusive designs, which allow seniors to continue to live independently in their communities for as long as possible.

  Applicants eligible for this grant include those completing housing projects located within Simcoe County (excluding the cities of Barrie and Orillia). Applicants who were successful in obtaining an Age-Friendly Seniors Housing grant in the past three years are not eligible to apply in 2023.  Applicants can be homeowners of principal residences or developers, who wish to include accessible, adaptable and inclusive design modifications for occupants aged 60 or older. Grant amounts will be distributed based on the number of applications received and ability to meet funding criteria.

  Learn more about the County of Simcoe Age-in-Place Housing Grants

• County of Simcoe Community Paramedicine Program

  Community Paramedicine programs provide opportunities for Paramedics to apply their training and skills in the community outside of their traditional 911 emergency response role.  CP programs promote Paramedics to work in collaboration with other health care professionals and community agencies to connect patients with needed health and community services. These connections assist patients to participate in their care, maintain independence and promote involvement in their communities.

  The County of Simcoe Community Paramedicine Home Visit Program supports patients to stay healthy and independent in their own homes. The program is offered throughout the County of Simcoe at no cost to the patient and offers integrated, in-home care by Community Paramedics. Community Paramedics receive additional training and specialize in CHF (Congestive Heart Failure), COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and Diabetes. They maintain a direct connection with the patient's Primary Care Provider and can minimize the need for 9-1-1 calls and hospital visits.

  Learn more about the County of Simcoe Community Paramedicine Program

• Lakehead University Adult Learning Programs

  Across Canada, and internationally, lifelong learning groups offer innovative educational opportunities for senior learners in non-degree programs of study. A network of third age learning groups has been established in many communities across Ontario.

  Third Age Learning at Lakehead (TALL) is currently a group of six committed volunteers initiated by Anne Hilliard, a retired Simcoe County elementary school principal. It has been established in partnership with Dr. Linda Rodenburg, Director of Community Engagement and Lifelong Learning (CELL) at Lakehead University . 

  Our objective is to provide a series of interesting and thought provoking lectures to residents of Orillia and surrounding area to stimulate our minds and discussion. Keeping active and learning is essential to our collective well being.

  Learn more about Lakehead University Adult Learning Programs

• Tiny’s Fire & Emergency Services Emergency Preparedness

  Emergencies happen every day in our community. Fortunately, most of these emergencies can be dealt with by our local first responders which may include fire, police, emergency health services and public works.

  In the event of an emergency or disaster, everyone should be prepared to look after themselves and their families for at least three days. For example: it may take public works personnel up to three days to clear roads after a major winter storm.

  Learn more about Emergency Preparedness in Tiny