Aging With Dignity
Hosted by Varsha, this podcast launched in 2025 to fill a critical gap she witnessed in Montreal’s 1st & 2nd generation immigrant communities - a lack of awareness, understanding, access and dialogue around aging and end-of-life support. Inspired by her own journey caring for her parents, Varsha created this space to inform, connect, and empower families navigating these often-overlooked challenges.
This podcast has been produced as a VIDEO podcast. To get the full impact, please find us on YouTube.
On this page, you will find links to AUDIO versions of the podcast.
WELCOME TO THE PODCAST
This podcast is close to Varsha’s heart. It was born from conversations around the kitchen table, during phone calls with loved ones, and in quiet moments when life’s big questions come knocking. What started as a conversation within the South Asian community quickly revealed something universal — the journey of aging, caregiving, end-of-life planning and how we care for each other along the way touches all of us.
Varsha created this space to explore the topics we often don’t talk about enough — how we show up for our elders, how we plan for the hard stuff, and how we care for each other with dignity, love, and a little humor along the way.
She’s not an expert or a professional in the field — just someone walking this path with her own family, asking questions, sharing stories, and building a resource that feels supportive, inclusive, and human.
No matter your background, if you’re here as a caregiver, a concerned family member, or simply curious — you belong here. We're so glad you've joined us.
Together, let’s listen, learn, and lift each other up.
Episodes
Dec 9, 2025
Dec 9, 2025
41 min
An insightful episode on inheritance, taxes, and what really happens when a parent passes. With expert Tom Hamilton Piercy, we explore taxes, estate planning, and the realities of what children inherit before it’s too late. A clear, compassionate guide for families navigating end-of-life transitions.
Download your Episode 11 Care Toolkit here!
Click here to watch the episode!
Nov 25, 2025
Nov 25, 2025
52 min
The conversation continues. In Part 2 of The Many Languages of Care, our caregivers go deeper, exploring the emotional side of caregiving, what they wish their loved ones knew, and what they’ve learned about aging, compassion, and themselves.
Click here to watch the episode!
Click here for Season 1 Toolkits!
Nov 18, 2025
Nov 18, 2025
40 min
Today we are kicking off season 2 with a conversation that is a little different.I’ve gathered a small circle of caregivers to join me today, each with their own story.
Watch part one here.
Oct 30, 2025
Oct 30, 2025
28 min
This special in-between-seasons episode is a little different — the tables are turned! Our talented videographer, Vinay Dhalla, steps in as host and puts me in the hot seat. Together, we look back on the heartfelt conversations and lessons from Season 1 of Aging With Dignity, and share a glimpse into what’s next for Season 2.
Click here to watch the episode!
Oct 14, 2025
Oct 14, 2025
5 min
In this special episode Varsha looks back on Season 1: from deeply personal moments to expert insights on elder care, grief, and end-of-life planning. It’s part reflection, part celebration, and part sneak peek of what’s ahead in Season 2.
Oct 7, 2025
Oct 7, 2025
44 min
Some parts of life are heavy, and planning for them is easy to postpone. In this episode, we talk about how to ease that weight, with two remarkable guests who bring both expert guidance and lived experience to a conversation we all need to have.
Download your Episode 11 Care Toolkit here!
Click here to watch the episode!
Sep 30, 2025
Sep 30, 2025
28 min
Losing an elderly loved one is never easy, and grief can feel overwhelming, confusing, and isolating. In this episode, Varsha sits down with Emelie Pothier-Tessier from Deuil-Jeunesse to explore grief, learn how it can show up differently for each family member, and understand the support resources available to help navigate this deeply human experience.
Download your Episode 11 Care Toolkit here!
Click here to watch the episode.
Sep 23, 2025
Sep 23, 2025
41 min
Honouring a loved one through Hindu funeral rites is deeply spiritual. But navigating the logistics in a city like Montreal can be overwhelming. In this episode, we explore the requirements for a Hindu cremation, and how families balance tradition, emotion, and practical realities.
Download your Episode 10 Care Toolkit here!
Click here to watch the episode!
Sep 16, 2025
Sep 16, 2025
49 min
Palliative care is about more than just end-of-life. It’s about living well, finding comfort, and supporting both patients and families through one of life’s most challenging journeys.
Join us for an intimate Q&A with Greg, the palliative nurse who guided Varsha’s parents through their final days, sharing insights, practical advice, and the human side of care that often goes unseen.
Download your Episode 09 Care Toolkit here!
Click here to watch the episode!
Sep 9, 2025
Sep 9, 2025
27 min
When life changes suddenly, an aging parent needs more help, the house no longer feels safe, or palliative care becomes part of the conversation. How do you prepare? In this episode, we face these hard but necessary transitions with an experienced advocate by your side.
Download your Episode 08 Care Toolkit here!
Click here to watch the episode!
Thanks for stopping by and checking out the site! Your support means the world - whether you’re tuning into the podcast or helping spread the word.
Interested in joining the conversation?
We’re always happy to speak with potential guest speakers (professionals, caregivers, community leaders, and individuals with lived experience) who can help inform, inspire, and challenge perceptions around aging. Whether you bring a clinical, cultural, or personal perspective, your voice could empower families to plan proactively and live more fully. Let’s connect live to explore how you can be part of the podcast.
Contact Us
If you’d like to get in touch, feel free to email Varsha directly at varshapodcast@gmail.com
And don't forget to connect with her on LinkedIn , Instagram and YouTube - We’d love to hear from you!