Debbie Hertha is an experienced social Gerontologist and Aging Specialist with a Masters Degree in Gerontology from Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, and Bachelor of Applied Science (Co-op) Degree in Gerontology from University of Guelph in Ontario. She has over 25 years of demonstrated history of working in the seniors services industry in both Ontario and British Columbia. Her career includes work in public policy development and strategic planning for seniors; age-friendly and dementia-friendly planning and implementation; caregiver and seniors resource navigation and outreach; community and stakeholder development and engagement; seniors safety and injury prevention. She has worked for organizations including Division of Aging and Seniors, Health Canada, Lifeline Canada (Philips Healthcare), Providence Health Care and City of Richmond.

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Debbie’s first job in the seniors field was at the age of 16 years at a small seniors residence called Garfield Manor in her hometown of Petrolia, Ontario where she helped with the daily tasks, personal care and social activities for a small group of seniors. This started her love for working with seniors and several years of dedication in improving the lives of people as they age. Over the years Debbie had several requests for help from clients, customers, friends, neighbours and work colleagues about their own challenges with caring for their loved ones, and set the foundation and inspiration for her idea to start Creative Aging Company. 

 

What sealed the idea though, was her own struggle juggling a young family and her husband’s new business demands, along with taking care of her 85 year old Dad and supporting her Mother in Ontario. Working for 20 years in the seniors services industry and still not knowing how to easily find support for her Dad to attend activities during the day while she worked full-time, frustrating her. She knew this meant others were frustrated and struggling, and that ultimately, this problem was negatively impacting the health, happiness and overall wellbeing of many other older adults and those that are caring for and supporting them. After 12 years working for the City of Richmond, she happily left to fulfill a dream to create a business that helps those caring and supporting older adults and those managing their own aging issues. 

 

When she is not working, Debbie enjoys planning social gatherings and events for her family and friends, hanging with her girlfriends, gourmet food and beverages, bootcamp, travelling and photography. Debbie resides in the Steveston area of Richmond, BC. She is married to a Steveston business owner and the Mother of two teenage boys.