Aging in Place Workshops: Education Every Family Deserves

Jenna Fralick, BScN RN

Why Education Matters More Than Ever

Families across Nova Scotia are carrying a heavy burden. Women aged 55–65 are most often the ones managing medications, driving to appointments, and helping with daily living activities. Add the emotional strain of guilt, confusion, and exhaustion, and it becomes clear why so many families feel like they’re drowning.

One of the biggest problems? Conflicting information. Families hear one thing from a hospital, another from a government program, and something different again from friends. In the end, they’re left overwhelmed and unsure about what to do next.

That’s why we are so proud to introduce our Free Aging in Place Workshops, happening this fall across Nova Scotia. These sessions were created to provide something families have been asking for: clear education, practical solutions, and real stories that bring relief instead of stress.

👉 Register for free today: www.rwhc.ca/workshops

Why We Created the Aging in Place Workshops

At RWHC, we know that education is the foundation of confident caregiving. When families understand what support exists, they can make better decisions, prevent burnout, and keep their loved ones safe at home longer.

Research shows that family caregivers who have access to education are less likely to experience severe stress, more likely to use respite services, and report better outcomes for their loved ones (Keefe et al., 2022). Education isn’t just about information — it’s about relief, empowerment, and hope.

Workshop 1: Understanding Care Options & Funding in Nova Scotia

One of the most common fears families face is financial: “We can’t afford care.” But often, this fear comes from not knowing what supports exist.

This workshop breaks down the difference between public and private care, explains funding options, grants and how to determine your eligibility, sharing practical examples of how families can create a customized care plan that works for their situation. Families will learn that home health care services are not only for the wealthy — they can be flexible, affordable, and even save money by preventing hospitalizations.

Education in this session will help families feel less trapped by finances and more empowered to ask the right questions.

Workshop 2: Navigating Transitions from Hospital to Home

Few moments are more stressful than bringing a loved one home from the hospital. Families often assume they can “just figure it out,” but without planning, they risk injury, readmission, or burnout.

This workshop teaches families how to prepare for discharge, what post-hospital care really looks like and how to plan for worst case snenarios. Education in this area ensures smoother transitions, less confusion, and a lower chance of hospital re-admission.

Workshop 3: Preparing the Home for Aging in Place

Many families believe they don’t need to make home changes until there’s a crisis. Unfortunately, this belief often leads to preventable falls, hospital stays, and stress.

This workshop focuses on practical strategies for adapting the home: improving lighting, installing grab bars, adjusting flooring, and using mobility aids.

Workshop 4: Building a Support System & Having ‘The Talk’

One of the hardest challenges families face is starting the conversation about care. Many worry: “I’ll upset my parent if I bring it up.” Others fear they’ll be seen as giving up.

This workshop helps families reframe “the talk” as an act of love, not loss. Education includes how to introduce the topic gently, how to involve siblings or partners, and how to use resources like respite care and community programs to share the load.

Families leave with worksheets, real-life examples, and the reassurance that building a support system is an investment in everyone’s well-being.

The Bigger Picture: Education as Stress Relief

Each workshop ties back to a central truth: education is stress relief. Families can’t make good decisions without clarity. By bringing everything into one space, the workshops reduce confusion and provide families with peace of mind.

Research highlights that caregivers who receive structured education are more resilient, less likely to experience burnout, and better equipped to balance their roles (Williams et al., 2021; CIHI, 2023).

That’s why our workshops are not just sessions — they’re lifelines. And they're free!

How to Register

The Aging in Place Workshops are free to attend and open to all families across Nova Scotia.

📅 Dates & Locations:

• South Shore (Mondays): Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre (1–2pm) & Flourish Centre (3–4pm) – Oct 6, 20, 27, Nov 3

• Pictou/Truro (Wednesdays): New Glasgow Library (2pm), Pictou Library (4:30pm), Truro Library (6:30pm) – Oct 8, 15, 22, 29

• Halifax (Wednesdays): Canada Games Centre (10:30am) – Oct 8, 15, 22, 29

👉 Register today: www.rwhc.ca/workshops

Spaces are limited — don’t wait to claim your spot.

Conclusion: Education Every Family Deserves

Caregiving is full of tough choices, but education can make the journey lighter. By attending these free workshops, families will finally have clarity about home health care services, daily living activities, disability support, respite care, and funding options.

You don’t need to do this alone. Let education bring you the relief you’ve been waiting for.

👉 Sign up now: www.rwhc.ca/workshops

References

Canadian Institute for Health Information. (2023). Supporting informal caregivers: The backbone of home care. CIHI.

Keefe, J., Guberman, N., & Barylak, L. (2022). Family caregiver education and its impact on stress reduction. Canadian Journal on Aging, 41(2), 233–245.

Williams, A., Nolan, M., & Porter, S. (2021). Caregiver stress and the impact of education-based interventions. Canadian Journal on Aging, 40(2), 245–258.