A new community event focused on helping older adults stay healthy, informed, and connected is coming to Altona later this month.
The Healthy Living Forum take places Wednesday, April 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the The Gardens on Tenth.
The days is geared towards older adults, along with their families, and will feature a range of speakers, informational booths, and hands-on wellness opportunities.
Carissa Kiansky, life enrichment coordinator at The Gardens on Tenth, said the idea for the forum grew out of a need she’s seen in the community.
“The Healthy Living Forum was inspired by a growing need in our community for accessible, reliable health information in one place,” she said. “We saw that many people—especially older adults—are looking for guidance on how to stay healthy, active, and independent, but don’t always know where to start.”
By bringing a variety of professionals and organizations together under one roof, the forum is designed to make that information easier to access in a welcoming, supportive environment.
The forum will focus specifically on adults aged 50+, recognizing that health needs often evolve with age.
“At this stage in life, health and wellness can look a little different, and the information people need becomes more specific,” Kiansky said. “Whether that’s managing medications, maintaining mobility, supporting brain health, or simply staying socially connected, it’s about empowering people with the tools to age well and live fully.”
Attendees can expect a mix of short presentations and interactive booths covering topics such as physical health, nutrition, brain health and safety. Organizers are also offering practical services, including free hearing tests and biometric screenings, allowing participants to walk away with both knowledge and tangible health insights.
Beyond the physical aspects of wellness, Kiansky emphasized that the forum also aims to support mental, emotional, and social well-being.
“Health is about so much more than just the physical side,” she said. “This forum encourages connection by bringing people together in a shared space where they can learn, ask questions, and build relationships. It helps reduce isolation and reminds people they’re not alone in their health journey.”
A number of organizations and health professionals will be on hand, including representatives from the Alzheimer Society, HearingLife, Rust Medical, CancerCare Manitoba, Southern Health-Santé Sud, and Active Aging Manitoba. Each group will offer expertise and resources tailored to older adults and their families.
Kiansky said the collaboration between partners and sponsors has been the key to making the event possible, helping ensure a wide range of supports are available in one place.
The forum is free to attend, though those who register in advance will be entered into a prize draw. Organizers encourage attendees to book specific services, such as hearing tests and biometric screenings, ahead of time to secure a spot.
For those still considering whether to attend, Kiansky offered a simple message.
“Come check it out,” she said. “There’s truly something for everyone, and you might walk away with just one helpful tip or connection that makes a difference in your daily life.”
To register, call 204-324-8945 or email info@gardensontenth.ca.
