Planning to Age in Place: What Seniors and Families Need to Know — with Baycrest CEO Deb Galet
Aging in place is something most Canadians want, but making it possible takes more than good intentions. In this practical and reassuring conversation, Teri Hart is joined by Deb Galet, President and CEO of Baycrest Hospital and Apotex Centre, Jewish Home for the Aged, to talk about what it really takes for older adults to live safely and independently at home.
Drawing on her background as an occupational therapist and healthcare leader, Deb breaks down the physical, cognitive, and environmental factors that can make aging in place more successful. From stairs, bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and lighting to decluttering, fall prevention, and home safety assessments, she shares clear, actionable advice for seniors and caregivers alike.
Deb also speaks candidly about the realities of caregiving, why planning ahead matters, and how small changes now can make a meaningful difference later. Whether you are supporting an aging parent, thinking about your own future, or simply trying to better understand what aging in place actually involves, this episode is full of helpful guidance, expert insight, and compassionate perspective.
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This episode of The Hart of It All is brought to you by Capital Direct. The Capital Direct Flexi Line™ turns your home equity into flexible support, so you can arrange the care your family deserves now and pay it back when the time is right.
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Resources:
Baycrest Hospital + Apotex Centre, Jewish Home for the Aged:
https://www.baycrest.org/all-entities/hospital-long-term-care/
College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario:
https://www.coto.org/
Ontario Health At Home:
https://ontariohealthathome.ca/
Home First from Hospital to Home - Info Sheet:
https://ontariohealthathome.ca/document/champlain-home-first-fact-sheet-english/
Follow Deb Galet at Baycrest:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baycrest/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/baycrestcentre/
Website: https://www.baycrest.org/
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Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital
Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/
I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode.
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🟡 About The Hart of it All
A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving.
No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most.
From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together.
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