IRIS: Consulting for Seniors

Jill L. O’Donnell RN, PHN, Social Service Administration, BA

Jill is the President of IRIS: Consulting for Seniors Inc., formerly Complete Geriatric Care, the first entity of its kind in Canada; a client-centred consulting service established, in 1981, to meet the total needs of seniors. She is well-known in the field of gerontology and as a specialist in aging issues. Jill pioneered the concept of care management in the private sector. Her specific interest is in the treatment and housing of frail elders and those suffering from cognitive impairment. Recognizing a need of a forum for people helping older adults, Jill started The ElderConnection, a networking breakfast in 1994.  When moving clients from their homes into other settings was an issue, Jill established ElderMoves in 1996, a complete move management service.

Jill has been a presenter at local, regional and international conferences and has been featured in newspapers across Canada and has also been a guest on local, regional and national radio and TV.  She is the co-author of The Canadian Retirement Guide (Canada) and The Retirement Guide (USA). An Australian edition is coming out soon. Jill’s memoir, Searching for Robert. Finding Andrew about connecting with a son she gave up in 1962 was published this year.