Planning ahead to age with dignity

By Lethbridge Herald on February 4, 2026.

HERALD PHOTO BY JOE MANIO Attendees at the LSCO’s Navigating Services to Age with Dignity session listen intently as presenters share practical tips and local resources for planning ahead, accessing care, and making informed decisions about the later stages of life.

By Joe Manio- Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Most people avoid thinking too far ahead about aging, especially when it comes to declining health or end-of-life decisions. But skipping those conversations can make life transitions far more stressful when they arrive unexpectedly.

That was a key message at Navigating Services to Age with Dignity, a community information session hosted by the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) on Jan. 26 at the Nest Event & Meeting Rooms.

The event brought together seniors, caregivers, and local service providers to discuss planning, care options, and the importance of understanding available supports before a crisis occurs. 

Presented in partnership with Compassionate Sacred Transitions and Seamless Cares Ltd., the session focused on navigating aging through life transitions—from increasing care needs to end-of-life considerations. Organizers emphasized that dignity in aging is closely tied to preparation, choice, and access to clear information.

LSCO Executive Director Kaitylnn Weaver said the idea for the session came from the organization’s work with seniors who often seek help only after circumstances become overwhelming.

“There’s a lot of steps to address and systems to navigate when individuals retire or get older,” Weaver said. “Things like pensions, benefits, housing, estates, wills, health care—it’s overwhelming just to begin to consider.”

Weaver said one of the biggest sources of anxiety is simply not knowing what services exist or how to access them.

“At the LSCO, our Seniors Systems program helps older adults compartmentalize and make an actionable plan that is shared between the individual and a social worker, so they are empowered and supported,” she said.

Attendees explored the challenges seniors face as their needs change, including navigating home care, understanding available supports, and preparing for future decisions. The presentation highlighted how early conversations with family and care providers can preserve independence and reduce stress later.

Compassionate Sacred Transitions shared strategies for supporting families through emotionally complex stages, including serious illness and end-of-life care. Representatives emphasized the difficulty of these moments when families are unprepared.

“This can be a very difficult and painful time, and I am pleased to offer my services to help ease the transition,” said Jane Bartlett of Compassionate Sacred Transitions. “It was reassuring to hear that Lethbridge has a vast array of quality resources for people to age with dignity.”

Seamless Cares Ltd. addressed another common concern: navigating a complex care system. Representatives explained how system navigation services can help seniors and caregivers understand their options and coordinate care during times of change.

“Planning for yourself as you age is so important because you and your family have something to refer to if a crisis arises,” Weaver said. “Taking control of your options removes guesswork, and the service providers at this event are ready to assist.”

“When people face health challenges, loss, or caregiver burnout, the system can feel overwhelming,” said a Seamless Cares representative. “Having guidance makes transitions more manageable.”

Throughout the session, attendees were encouraged to ask questions, connect with providers, and take home resources to review at their own pace. Organizers stressed that planning doesn’t mean making immediate decisions—it’s about building awareness and confidence over time.

“I hope participants left knowing who to contact if they have questions and that services exist to help navigate a complex system,” Weaver said.

As Lethbridge’s senior population grows, events like this highlight the importance of open conversation and proactive planning. While no one can predict every life transition, having information in place can help ensure dignity, respect, and choice remain at the center of the aging journey.

The next session, featuring the same speakers and format, will be Wednesday, April 29, at Nest Events. Doors open at 5 p.m., with the presentation beginning at 5:30 p.m. Light snacks and coffee will be provided by the LSCO.