Cannabis legalization and young adults:
Early signals from the Multi-method Evaluation of the Transitions to Cannabis Legalization (METRIC-L) Study

Presenters

• Zach Walsh, PhD, RPsych
  Associate Professor, Psychology
  Irving K Barber School of Arts & Sciences, UBC Okanagan
• Tatiana Sanchez, MA student, Clinical Psychology
  Irving K Barber School of Arts & Sciences, UBC Okanagan

Abstract
Preliminary findings regarding how cannabis use has been impacted by the federal legalization of adult use. Focus on cannabis use norms, how cannabis is being used as a substitute for alcohol and ongoing challenges and developments in cannabis research methods are discussed.

Making connections: Making a difference
Scaling out a volunteer navigation intervention

Presenters

• Barb Pesut, PhD, RN
  Canada Research Chair, Health, Ethics and Diversity;
  Professor, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Development, UBC Okanagan
• Clara Dyck, MSN, RN
  Education and Resource Leader, North Okanagan Hospice Society

Abstract
Many seniors, particularly those being affected by chronic illness, experience loneliness and social isolation. Nav-CARE is a program in which highly trained volunteers work with seniors and family in the home to provide social support and enhance connections to the community with the goal of improving quality of life. This program has now been scaled out to communities across Canada. This presentation describes the development and evaluation of the Nav-CARE program and highlight the experiences of one hospice society in implementing this innovative service.

More, better and earlier conversations: promoting Advance Care Planning in the community and with the health care team

Presenters

• Elizabeth Beddard-Huber, RN, MSN, CHPCN (c)
  Clinical Lead Serious Illness Conversations
  BC Centre for Palliative Care
• Kathy Kennedy,
  Community Development Specialist / ACP Lead
  BC Centre for Palliative Care

Abstract
Most Canadians want a voice in decisions about their health care, but need support to plan for a time when they may not be able to make decisions for themselves. Advance Care Planning (ACP) education sessions for the public begin the process where people think about and share values, beliefs and wishes for future health and personal care. The Serious Illness Conversation (SIC) initiative supports clinician-led discussions about goals and priorities with individuals facing a life limiting illness to enable goal concordant care.

The Stroke Coach: New approaches for secondary prevention of stroke

Presenter

Brodie Sakakibara, Assistant Professor
Faculty of Medicine, Southern Medical Program, UBC Okanagan

Abstract
Many stroke survivors have poor control of chronic disease risk factors. This has contributed to a high incidence of secondary events after stroke. Given the increasing prevalence of stroke survivors, new approaches to modify behavioural risk factors are warranted. This presentation details the issues of secondary prevention, as well as ongoing and future research to minimize secondary events after stroke.

Early signs of dementia? Strategies to delay onset and maintain brain health

Presenter

Dr. Eugene Okorie, Geriatric Psychiatrist
Interior Health

Abstract
The session explores what dementia means, its early signs, and strategies to delay its onset.

Too little, too late: How we fail vulnerable and marginalized people as they die, and what to do about it

Presenter

Kelli Stajduhar, PhD, Professor, School of Nursing;
Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health, University of Victoria

Abstract
Access to palliative care services is uneven across Canada, despite its many proven benefits. Hear the findings of recent research exploring access to palliative care for people living in poverty and who are homeless or barely housed. Solutions for equity-informed palliative care will be proposed.

Approaches to fall prevention among seniors:
Examining the effectiveness and efficiency

Presenter

Jennifer Davis, PhD, Assistant Professor
Faculty of Management, UBC Okanagan

Abstract
Falls are a geriatric giant of aging and are the third leading cause of chronic disability worldwide. Effective single factor and multifactorial strategies exist to prevent falls. The efficiency of these interventions is less established.

Dare to age well: A physical activity approach

Presenter

Jennifer Jakobi, PhD, Associate Professor
School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development
UBC Okanagan

Abstract
Physical activity is difficult to apply regularly  yet it has physiological, psychological, emotional, and cognitive benefits. This talk explores how physical activity slows age-related decline in physiological systems and in-turn enhances functional mobility.

Cannabis: Does it have a place in palliative and end-of-life care?

Presenter

Lynda Balneaves, PhD, RN, Associate Professor
College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba

Abstract
An overview of cannabis history and policy in Canada, as well as a brief summary of the endocannabinoid system. The known health effects of cannabis and its therapeutic potential for end-of-life care are discussed.