zannat reza

This week, healthy aging advocate Zanna Reza joins the show to talk about shaking up the system so we can grow older on our own terms. In a world where getting older (at any age) can come with a lot of stereotyping and discrimination, we talk about why we, as women, need to own our age - and the wisdom we've earned every day. In this conversation we discuss the importance of staying passionate, curious and creative at every stage in life - and why all humans need to feel a sense of purpose at any age!

Zannat Reza is a healthy aging advocate and the Director of the Future of Aging social impact team at SE Health, a not-for-profit, home health social enterprise.

This episode is brought to you by Fine Lime Designs Illustrations

This is a great episodes for creatives who:

• struggle with appreciating the wisdom they've accumulated - and sharing it with the world
• who worry it's too late to try the next thing
• need a confidence boost 
• are afraid of showing up as their true selves - especially as they get older
• dread the next milestone birthday - be it 30, 40, 50 and beyond.
• are afraid to own their age

For a summary of this episode and all the links mentioned please visit the full show notes at:
Episode 145: Own Your Age and Your Wisdom with Zannat Reza

You can learn more about the work Zannat does at SE Health's Future of Aging website or through her podcast, The Future Age. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

You can find Melissa at finelimedesigns.com, finelimeillustrations.com or on Instagram @finelimedesigns.

You can connect with the podcast on:

• Instagram at @andshelookedup
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Tik Tok at @AndSheLookedUp

For a list of all available episodes, please visit:
And She Looked Up Creative Hour Podcast

Each week The And She Looked Up Podcast sits down with inspiring Canadian women who create for a living. We talk about their creative journeys and their best business tips, as well as the creative and business mindset issues all creative entrepreneurs struggle with. This podcast is for Canadian artists, makers and creators who want to find a way to make a living doing what they love.

Your host, Melissa Hartfiel (@finelimedesigns), left a 20 year career in corporate retail and has been happily self-employed as a working creative since 2010. She's a graphic designer, writer and illustrator as well as the co-founder of a multi-six figure a year business in the digital content space. She resides just outside of Vancouver, BC.

In this thought-provoking episode, host Zannat Reza explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and aging. Joined by experts Dr. Charlene Chu, assistant professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Nursing, and Stephen Johnston, founder of Fordcastle & Looking Forward, they delve into the practical applications of AI in improving the lives of older adults. Their expert insights highlight how AI can enhance healthcare delivery, from predicting conditions and managing medications to enabling independent living and international implementation and innovation. 

However, the discussion doesn't shy away from the pitfalls, exploring how ageism creeps into the digital world, and what can be done to make sure AI is inclusive and as beneficial to older adults as it promises to be. We explore the ethical considerations of AI as well, the concept of digital resignation and consequences of unregulated AI data collection, who owns the data, controls it, and benefits from it.  Through this engaging conversation, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of AI and the importance of responsible and inclusive implementation.

Chapter Timestamps: 

(00:00:00) Introduction 

Zannat introduces the episode’s themes - exploring the potential & pitfalls of AI in the aging space. 

(00:01:43) Exploring the Potential of AI in Aging 

Zannat welcomes expert Dr. Charlene Chu, who defines AI and explains how it can revolutionize aging through personalized care, remote monitoring, and caregiver support. 

(00:04:24) Addressing Ageism and Biases in AI for Aging 

Continuing the conversation, Zannat and Charlene discuss digital ageism; how it can influence design, implementation, and availability of the types of technology. They also highlight the need for a more inclusive design and testing process. 

(00:08:23) Data Privacy and Smart Home Technology 

Smart home tech has the potential to be revolutionary for independent living, but the data collection that stems from it raises privacy concerns. Charlene defines digital resignation, and brings up the issue of who has access to data for decision making. 

(00:10:37) The Importance of Data Ownership and Transparency 

Zannat introduces Stephen Johnston, founder of Fordcastle, to discuss critical issues of data ownership, transparency, and benefit-sharing in AI data collection. They highlight how tech companies have profited from user data without transparency or user benefit.  

(00:12:59) AI for Caregiving and Better Outcomes 

Stephen shares real-world examples of AI solutions in caregiving and better care outcomes. He discusses how AI can enhance caregiving efficiency, improve care quality, and empower caregivers with cutting-edge insights and prompts. 

(00:14:44) AI Solutions in the Aging Space 

Zannat highlights different innovative companies like Care Daily, care.coach, and Winter Light Labs that are leveraging AI through apps to enhance caregiving, communication, and health outcomes. 

(00:22:30) Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions  

Charlene & Stephen answer the final 2 future of aging questions we ask all our guests. 

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:43) - Exploring the Potential of AI in Aging
• (04:24) - Addressing Ageism and Biases in AI for Aging
• (08:23) - Data Privacy and Smart Home Technology
• (10:37) - The Importance of Data Ownership and Transparency
• (12:59) - AI for Caregiving and Better Outcomes
• (14:44) - AI Solutions in the Aging Space
• (22:30) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

Join host Zannat Reza and Aislin O'Hara Kell, aging and accessibility innovation consultant, O'Hara Aging + Accessibility, as they explore the transformative potential of transportation solutions for older adults. They delve into the concept of transportation as a social determinant of health and its profound impact on the quality of life for older adults. Discover the advancements and innovation in other countries, such as volunteer driver programs and unique funding models. Gain insights into the challenges faced by municipalities in Canada and the importance of sustainable funding in creating age-friendly transportation systems.

Moving forward, they emphasize the need for national conversations and partnerships to address shared challenges faced by communities across Canada. In this episode, discover the potential of inclusive design and innovation in transportation, where accessibility & flexibility is key to improving the quality of life for older adults.

Chapter Time Stamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Host Zannat Reza introduces the topic of transportation for older adults and its significance in predicting well-being.

(00:01:04) Transportation as a Social Determinant of Health

Aislin O'Hara Kell discusses the impact on access to transportation on the lives of older adults with Zannat, & highlights the negative consequences of limited transportation options, including isolation and loneliness.

(00:03:21) Understanding Age-Friendly, Accessible Transportation

The concept of age-friendly and accessible transportation is expanded on, emphasizing the need for flexibility and tailored options through an example of an older adult with different transportation needs for various activities in their life.

(00:06:01) Canada's Standing in Transportation Solutions

Aislin highlights Canada's lag behind other G20 countries in terms of transportation solutions, they discuss examples of community transportation programs in the US.

(00:08:46) Funding & Insurance Challenges in Canada

Zannat & Aislin explore the challenges faced by municipalities in starting & sustaining transportation programs for older adults, and emphasize the need for all levels of government, philanthropic organizations, and corporations to collaborate.

(00:12:14) Corporations Supporting Age-Friendly Transportation.

Aislin introduces Toyota’s funding of the AARP’s Ride@50+ Program in the US, and discusses corporate partnerships with community transportation programs in the Netherlands

(00:14:43) Challenges and Considerations in Transportation Solutions

Aislin & Zannat highlight some of the obstacles, including accessible vehicles, driver training, cost implications of offering accessible rides, & routing.

(00:18:26) Accessibility in Public Transportation, 

With regards to creating accessibility in public transit, Aislin highlights accessible buses micro-mobility solutions, and other essential components and how they are being implemented in Canada & England.

(00:21:32) Exploring Technology’s Possibilities & Challenges

The potential of autonomous vehicles to support mobility is tempered with the importance of human interaction in transportation services for older adults.

(00:24:24) Collaboration at All Levels is Essential

Zannat & Aislin explore how individuals, organizations, and communities, can partner  and collaborate to innovate & solve problems in transportation programs in Australia & Canada.

(00:25:43)Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

Aislin  answers the final 2 future of aging questions we ask all of our guests.

• (00:00) - Time Stamps:
• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:04) - Transportation as a Social Determinant of Health
• (03:21) - Understanding Age-Friendly, Accessible Transportation
• (06:01) - Canada's Standing in Transportation Solutions
• (08:46) - Funding & Insurance Challenges in Canada
• (12:14) - Corporations Supporting Age-Friendly Transportation.
• (14:43) - Challenges and Considerations in Transportation Solutions
• (18:26) - Accessibility in Public Transportation,
• (21:32) - Exploring Technology’s Possibilities & Challenges
• (24:24) - Collaboration at All Levels is Essential
• (25:43) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions

Explore the potential of Impact Networks in shaping the future of aging. Through conversation with David Ehrlichman, author of "Impact Networks," host Zannat Reza uncovers the concept & benefits of these purpose-driven networks, which bring together diverse groups, organizations, and stakeholders to address complex issues that no single entity can alone.  We learn about the principles of network mindset, cultivating trust, and the role of leadership in fostering effective collaboration through Impact Networks. 

Next, Zannat delves into the role & potential of Impact Networks in changing the aging landscape in Canada with John Yip, President & CEO of SE Health. They explore the importance of inter-generational relationships, grassroots groups, community engagement, and the fluidity of impact networks as an effective tool. They also discuss the challenges of taking action and the powerful role of storytelling and emotions in igniting social movements. In particular, they reflect on how the COVID-19 pandemic shed light on ageism and hopefully will lead to change for older adults. Join Zannat as we find new ways of tackling the complex world of aging through Impact Networks.

Chapter Time Stamps:  

(00:00:00) What’s an Impact Network 

Zannat introduces the concept of Impact Networks as a way to address complex, interconnected issues. Impact Networks involve multiple players from different sectors collaborating around a shared purpose. 

(00:02:00) The Essence of Impact Networks 

David Ehrlichman, author of "Impact Networks," joins Zannat to discuss the shift from a hierarchical mindset to a network mindset & its importance in collaboration.  

(00:05:29) Overcoming Challenges in Building Impact Networks 

Zannat explores challenges faced when building an impact network, David suggests that engaging with others across the system can help shift mindsets, so convening together is essential. 

(00:07:53) Leadership and Cultivating Impact Networks 

Leadership plays a crucial role in cultivating impact networks, despite the absence of command and control. Change in impact networks occurs at the speed of trust. 

(00:09:24) Impact Networks Shaping the Future of Aging 

Zannat interviews John Yip, President and CEO of SE Health & they discuss Impact Networks within the aging ecosystem, involving individuals, academia, service providers, caregivers, and clients. 

(00:12:10) Importance of Multiple Generations 

Discussion of the need for solutions that involve multiple generations and engage future older adults. 

(00:13:58) Stakeholders in Impact Networks 

John describes the key stakeholders needed for a true impact network. But even with everyone at the table, there is still the challenge of actually creating change through implementation. 

(00:17:03) COVID-19 as a Tipping Point 

The potential of the COVID-19 pandemic as a tipping point for taking action against ageism is considered as a driver of policy changes. 

(00:18:04) The Power of Storytelling 

Zannat & John explore the power of storytelling in igniting strong emotions and propelling social movements, particularly in combating ageism.  

(00:19:12) Impact Networks in Action 

John highlights the importance of individuals and communities outside formal organizations who are building grassroots networks. 

(00:20:42) Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions 
David & John answer the final 2 future of aging questions we ask all our guests.

• (00:00) - What’s an Impact Network
• (02:00) - The Essence of Impact Networks
• (05:29) - Overcoming Challenges in Building Impact Networks
• (07:53) - Leadership and Cultivating Impact Networks
• (09:24) - Impact Networks Shaping the Future of Aging
• (12:10) - Importance of Multiple Generations
• (13:58) - Stakeholders in Impact Networks
• (17:03) - COVID-19 as a Tipping Point
• (18:04) - The Power of Storytelling
• (19:12) - Impact Networks in Action
• (20:42) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions