My name is Ellen Pisani, and I am incredibly excited to join the Elderado team for a six-week placement. This opportunity is the capstone of my Community and Health Services Navigation certificate program through Cambrian College. From the moment I came across Elderado, I was struck by the innovative, person-centered work being done by Daniel and his team. I knew immediately that I wanted to contribute to this groundbreaking approach and learn from the leaders currently reshaping how we support our seniors.

A Personal Journey into Advocacy

My passion for healthcare navigation is not just professional; it is deeply personal. Over twenty years ago, when I was 31 years old and caring for a one-year-old at home, a sudden and serious health crisis landed me in the ICU. In a staggering coincidence, my mother had experienced a similar life-threatening illness just 18 months prior.

During those intense years, our family was thrust into the complexities of the medical system. We learned very quickly that medical expertise is only one piece of the puzzle; the ability to navigate the bureaucracy, advocate for patient needs, and bridge the communication gap between providers and families is equally vital. That experience changed my perspective forever. I realized that no one should have to walk through the corridors of the healthcare system alone.

A Lifelong Commitment to Community

Since those experiences, I have gravitated toward roles that allow me to support others during their most vulnerable moments. For example, I have spent time volunteering in roles within palliative care and Meals on Wheels.

When the pandemic hit, I felt a familiar call to action. I worked at various vaccine clinics, not just as staff, but as a navigator. In a time of uncertainty, I found fulfillment in helping my community members manage their anxiety and guiding them through the logistical hurdles of the healthcare response. These experiences solidified my resolve to go back to school and formalize my skills in the Navigation field.

Bridging the Gap in Elder Care

As my own parents age, the necessity of skilled navigation has become even more apparent. I see firsthand how the “silver tsunami” is affecting families in my own community. The transition from independent living to a retirement residence or long-term care home is often fraught with emotional exhaustion and confusion.

Through my studies at Cambrian, I have gained a deeper understanding of the healthcare system, dementia care, and advocacy techniques. However, I also recognize the practical challenges: understanding the difference between retirement and long-term care, managing the vast range of amenities and care approaches, and the sheer difficulty of finding a home with immediate availability, within budget. Too many families learn these lessons “the hard way” during a crisis. My goal is to be the guide that helps them plan with confidence instead of reacting in fear.

My Six-Week Mission at Elderado

During my time with Elderado, I will be conducting a deep dive into the senior living landscape of East Toronto. I will be visiting 12 different retirement homes in my local community to learn about their unique offerings, cultures, and approaches to care.

I will be documenting my journey through a series of blog posts right here on the Elderado site. My objective is to provide a clear and helpful look at the options available in East Toronto so that families can find the right fit for their loved ones. I am honoured to learn from Daniel’s innovative team, and I look forward to helping you navigate the future of elder care with clarity and compassion. Stay tuned for my first site visit report!