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Langley seniors gather at seventh annual lifestyle expo

Friday’s event brought together agencies, businesses and community groups that serve seniors.
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Sheila Pyplacz, with her dog Indy, and Darlene Barling, owner of Dennis, are with the St. John’s Ambulance Therapy Dog program. (Heather Colpitts/Langley Advance Times)

Anyone attending the 60+ Lifestyle Expo for seniors on Friday got to meet two legged and four legged helpers.

There were the most exhibitors since the expo started seven years ago and some of the most popular were the therapy dogs of St. John’s Ambulance.

Indy and Dennis got to meet lots of humans while their owners provided people with details of the program.

The local certified therapy dogs go to facilities and events throughout the South of the Fraser region.

“Dennis and I go to a seniors home every week and meet with residents,” explained dog owner Darlene Barling.

The therapy dogs, though trained and certified, are not the same as service dogs but do serve an important role for seniors and others.

“We spread joy and bring a smile,” said Indy’s owner Sheila Pyplacz.

EARS Hearing organizes the annual seniors expo.

“It’s our way of giving back to the community,” said organizer Kim Galick.

The event typically attracts 100 to 300 people to check out displays, obtain information, enjoy demonstrations and watch entertainment such as the Langley Ukulele Ensemble.

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Lauren Johnson used an abacus for her quiz about physical and emotional health at the Find Your Balance booth, presented by BC Responsible and Problem Gambling. It was one of many social service agencies at the expo. (Heather Colpitts/Langley Advance Times)
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The 60+ Lifestyle Expo featured entertainment by the Langley Ukulele Ensemble. (Heather Colpitts/Langley Advance Times)
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There was plenty to see and hear at the 60+ Lifestyle Expo on Friday. Kim Galick, of EARS Hearing, organized the annual event. (Heather Colpitts/Langley Advance Times)


Heather Colpitts

About the Author: Heather Colpitts

Since starting in the news industry in 1992, my passion for sharing stories has taken me around Western Canada.
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