Saturday, June 7 - 9am-3pm
Saturday, June 7 – 9am-3pm – FREE Admission!
Join over 20 local organizations, businesses and speakers offering services, support, and information for older adults and their families.
- Lunch – Sandwich & Salad Combo, specially catered by Unison! – Pre-order and pay at the event ($12.60 per person)
- Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and water with your meal.
- And don’t miss live music with Brayden Lowe during lunch!
9:30 AM – Provincial Supports for Seniors with Andy Ridge, Assistant Deputy Minister
Andy has worked for the provincial government for over 25 years in a variety of Ministries, including Energy, Resource Development, Environment, Justice and Solicitor General, Infrastructure, Health and most recently Assisted Living and Social Services.
In his current role, Andy oversees the senior’s portfolio, with a focus on delivering programs and services to assist seniors and promote safety and well-being for Alberta’s aging population. This includes supplemental financial assistance programs and targeted initiatives to address social isolation, elder abuse, older workers, ageism, transportation needs, and aging well in community.
Before moving into this current role, Andy was a part of the Ministry of Health, initially serving as the Incident Commander with the Health Emergency Operations Centre working on the COVID-19 Pandemic response, and then in subsequent Assistant Deputy Minister roles including Health Standards, Quality and Performance and Pharmaceutical and Supplemental Benefits.
Andy also served as the Assistant Deputy Minister of Properties in the Ministry of Infrastructure where he was responsible for the oversight of approximately 1,800 properties. The division also included Alberta’s Public Private Partnerships Office, which coordinates the system for the assessment, selection and delivery of Public Private Partnership capital projects for the Alberta Government.
Prior to this, Andy was the Executive Director of Policy with the Alberta Cannabis Secretariat, focused on the development of Alberta’s response to federal cannabis legalization. Andy also served as the Executive Director of Water Policy with the Department of Environment, accountable for provincial water policy issues including the development of tailings and water management frameworks to support the sustainable development of Alberta’s resources.
Andy has also worked on provincial and national climate change policies, including the development of Alberta’s first climate change plan and first of its kind in North America comprehensive climate change legislation.
Andy Ridge, Assistant Deputy Minister, Assisted Living and Social Services – Seniors Division
10:45 AM – Seniors Thrive – Caregivers Rejoice with Robyn Wilson, My Aide in Life
Empowering seniors to remain independent while giving family caregivers peace of mind. My Aide In Life is a lifeline for families seeking home care that goes beyond the basics. Too often, seniors hesitate to ask for help, fearing a loss of independence, while family caregivers struggle to balance responsibilities. Families call us their best-kept secret because our personalized, non-medical support exceeds expectations. Whether it’s managing a household, navigating transitions, or simply being a trusted presence, the right support makes all the difference.
With My Aide In Life, no one has to do it alone—we are your trusted partners in care. Our goal is to empower seniors to remain independent while giving family caregivers peace of mind. Because when caregivers feel supported and seniors stay independent, everyone wins.
Robyn Wilson, Owner/Operator, My Aide in Life – (403) 708-3657 – www.myaideinlife.ca
12:00 PM – Lunch hour with Brayden Lowe 
Brayden Lowe is a Calgary-based singer and songwriter whose music blends the soulful depth of R&B with the infectious energy of pop. Inspired by legends like Otis Redding and Sam Cooke, and influenced by modern artists such as Usher and Justin Timberlake, Brayden crafts songs that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.
His musical journey began over a decade ago when he picked up his first acoustic guitar, igniting a passion that led him to perform across Canada, as well as in Ireland and the United States. His work has been featured on prominent platforms including CBC, 101.5 Today Radio, and The Raven 89.3. In recognition of his talent, Brayden was nominated for Pop Recording of the Year at the YYC Music Awards.
Beyond his musical achievements, Brayden is deeply connected to his community and draws inspiration from the hearts of those he encounters along his journey. He continues to create music that reflects his experiences and the stories of those around him
For more information or to follow his musical journey, visit braydenlowe.com.
1:30 PM – Setting up and maintaining your digital devices and computers with Merv Graham
This presentation will introduce key digital devices, focusing on computers, smartphones, and tablets. It will cover the basic differences between Windows and Mac systems, as well as Android and Apple mobile devices.
The importance of device settings is highlighted, emphasizing how customization can improve usability, functionality, and prevent common issues. The session concludes with a brief summary and practical takeaways for optimizing personal tech use.
Merv is not a programmer or IT expert by trade, but he has spent many years helping others—especially seniors—develop confidence and skills in using technology. With a passion for making tech accessible, Merv created a unique program to teach illiterate ESL learners how to use computers, starting with the very basics: the keyboard, mouse, alphabet, and foundational reading. This innovative approach made a meaningful difference for LINC students navigating both language and technology learning.
After retiring during the COVID-19 pandemic, Merv Graham launched DSSL (Digital Skills for Senior Learners) at Confederation Park Seniors Centre. This initiative eventually led to his ongoing Tech Help Appointments at GFLS 55+ Centre and Unison at Kerby Centre, where he continues to support older adults in building their digital confidence one step at a time.