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Articles by: My Wellings

Author: My Wellings

😊 The Power of a Smile

Have you ever looked up… and noticed the senior walking past you?
Maybe with a cane. Maybe carrying groceries. Maybe just out for their daily stroll.
You catch their eye—but do you smile? Do you say hello?

For some, that may be the only conversation they’ll have all day. For them, your simple “good morning” might mean everything. Seniors in our city carry stories, wisdom, and quiet resilience—and sometimes all it takes is one friendly face to remind them they’re seen and valued.

In our busy, often distracted world, it’s easy to rush from one task to the next without pausing to notice the people around us. But for many older adults—especially those who live alone—those brief human connections can be a highlight of the day. A smile or a wave says: I see you. You matter. It’s an acknowledgement that goes beyond words, touching something deep within us all—the need to feel part of a community.

One act of kindness often leads to another. Your smile might spark a conversation, which might lead to a shared laugh, which could brighten not only their day, but yours too. Kindness has a way of growing. Research shows that positive interactions can boost mood, reduce feelings of loneliness, and even improve overall well-being. For older adults, that little moment of connection can be the difference between a quiet day and one filled with warmth.

At Wellings, we see this truth in action every day. Members greet each other in the hallways, stop for a chat in the clubhouse, or lend a hand with groceries. These small moments weave together to create the fabric of community—something that enriches everyone’s life, no matter their age.

So tomorrow, look up. Smile. Say good day. You never know how much it might mean to the person receiving it—or how much joy it might bring to you in return. Because in the end, connection doesn’t just change someone’s day—it changes us all.

in Carefreedom Living®, Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Look Up and Connect

Look up and connect with the world around you.

There is so much to notice, to appreciate, to be thankful for.
The trees lining our streets.
The schools, the parks, the communities we call home.

So much of what we enjoy today was built by the hands, hearts, and hopes of those who came before us—our seniors.
They taught.
They volunteered.
They paved roads—literal and figurative—so we could walk a little easier.

Every corner of our towns and cities holds stories. Behind the park benches, the libraries, the community centres, and the quiet neighbourhood streets are decades of dedication from people who believed in building something lasting. Many of them are still here with us today—our neighbours, friends, and family members—continuing to inspire us with their wisdom, resilience, and generosity of spirit.

Today, take a moment to look up.
Notice the sunlight through the trees, the sound of children playing, the cheerful songs of birds in the air, and the way a neighbour tends their garden.

Smile at someone walking by. You never know how much a small gesture can brighten someone’s day.

Ask yourself: What can I do today to say thank you to a senior in my life or in my neighbourhood?

Sometimes it’s as simple as a friendly wave or a heartfelt “thank you.” Other times, it might mean offering your time, listening to a story from the past, or lending a helping hand. Every act of kindness—big or small—reminds the people around us that they matter.

At Wellings, we believe connection is the heartbeat of a thriving community. When we pause to look up, to notice, and to engage, we strengthen the bonds that make our neighbourhoods feel like home.

So today, and every day, take a moment to look up and connect. Because in the end, it’s these shared moments that make life richer—for all of us.

in Carefreedom Living®, Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

The Little Things That Matter Most

In a world that moves fast and feels increasingly digital, it’s easy to underestimate the power of the small moments—the simple, human gestures that connect us to each other. But it’s in those moments that something deeply meaningful happens. We remind one another: “I see you. You matter.”

We often don’t realize how much impact we have in the lives of others just by being present, by choosing kindness in the everyday. Holding the door a little longer. Helping carry groceries up a flight of stairs. Clearing snow off a neighbour’s walkway before they even ask. Taking a moment to ask someone, “How are you today?”—and genuinely listening to the answer. These aren’t grand gestures. They don’t cost anything but a bit of our time and attention. And yet, they can mean everything.

Especially to seniors in our communities.

A kind word or thoughtful gesture might be the only meaningful interaction a senior has all day. For those who live alone, who may have outlived partners or moved away from family, a small connection becomes a lifeline. For someone with limited mobility or chronic pain, a little help can ease a tough moment and bring a sense of dignity. These aren’t just tasks—they’re expressions of care, of community.

Calgary is full of incredible seniors—quietly contributing in so many ways. Volunteering their time. Sharing wisdom. Supporting neighbours. Showing up, even when it’s not easy. Many have spent a lifetime giving, building, nurturing. What would it look like if we paused long enough to give something back? Not out of obligation, but out of appreciation. Not because they need help, but because we see them—and choose kindness.

It doesn’t take much.

You don’t have to rearrange your whole life. Just be where you are, and be present. Notice the people around you. Smile. Ask questions. Offer a hand when you see someone struggling. If you know a senior on your street, say hello. Check in. Ask if there’s anything you can do. Sometimes, it’s simply being willing to take that extra moment—to see people, not just pass them.

This isn’t about pity. It’s about connection. It’s about remembering that the way we move through the world affects the way others experience it. Every interaction, no matter how small, has the power to lift someone up—or to be the one bright spot in their day.

There’s a quiet kind of power in that.

In a culture that often celebrates busyness and big accomplishments, there’s something radical about slowing down and choosing kindness. There’s something deeply meaningful in holding space for others—especially for those who might otherwise go unseen.

Because no act of kindness is ever wasted.

What you do matters. Whether you realize it or not, your presence—your attention—can transform someone’s day. And not just for seniors. Children notice. Friends feel it. Strangers carry it with them. Kindness has a ripple effect we can’t always measure.

So, this week, try something small. Say hello to a neighbour you usually pass by. Hold the elevator door. Offer your seat. Start a conversation in the checkout line. Shovel a little farther down the sidewalk than you normally would. Be open to connection.

These little things—they matter. More than we know.

And to someone, they might just mean everything. 



in Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Adventure Has No Age Limit: How Canadian Seniors Are Redefining Aging

In a world that often associates adventure with youth, older Canadians are rewriting the narrative — one hiking trail, kayak trip, and plane ticket at a time.

Take inspiration from Angela Voroby, an 89-year-old from the U.K. who became the oldest person to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Her story reminds us that adventure isn’t reserved for the young — it’s a state of mind. And here in Canada, many seniors are proving that age is no barrier to bold new experiences.

Canadians Are Exploring More Than Ever

According to ParticipACTION’s 2023 Report Card on Physical Activity for Adults, older Canadians are increasingly engaging in outdoor recreation. Activities like hiking, cycling, paddling, and even snowshoeing are gaining popularity among those aged 60 and older — and the benefits are significant.

“Outdoor activity improves physical health, lowers stress, and builds social connection — all vital to aging well,” the report notes. ParticipACTION encourages older adults to embrace movement in nature as a powerful way to stay mentally and physically vibrant.

The Health Benefits of Adventure

The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) recommends that adults aged 65+ engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity each week. Beyond fitness, adventure and novelty stimulate the brain and improve mental health. Trying something new — whether it’s exploring a local nature trail or learning how to paddle a canoe — keeps us curious, connected, and confident.

A 2022 survey by the Environics Institute found that 68% of Canadians over 60 planned to travel or take on a new hobby in the next five years, with a strong interest in nature-based experiences. These aren’t just bucket list items — they’re wellness strategies rooted in curiosity, freedom, and fun.

Canadian Trailblazers Redefining Aging

Across the country, seniors are making headlines with their adventurous spirits. In British Columbia, Evelyn Kirkaldy, an artist and educator in her 70s, leads wilderness painting retreats that combine hiking and creativity. In Quebec, Yves Durocher took up paragliding at 78. “You don’t stop dreaming because you get older,” he told Radio-Canada. “You stop dreaming when you stop trying.”

Programs like Parks Canada’s Learn to Camp, Seniors in Motion, and local community centre hiking groups make outdoor adventure more accessible to older adults — with many offering beginner-friendly options and accessible trails.

Adventure Can Be Whatever You Want It to Be

Adventure doesn’t have to mean climbing the tallest peak. For some, it’s a guided kayak tour on Lake Ontario. For others, it’s joining a hiking club or taking a solo trip for the first time. It might even be volunteering abroad or trying a new sport.

The key is to say “yes” — to new experiences, new friendships, and the belief that it’s never too late to try something for the first time.

What’s On Your “Someday” List?

If there’s one thing older Canadians are proving, it’s that aging can be a beginning — not an end. Whether you’re 65 or 95, your next great adventure could be just around the corner.

So, what dream will you chase next?

in Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Did You Know? Happiness Increases with Age

Aging joyfully in Canada — and loving every minute of it. 

Hello friends,

Here’s some happy news: the golden years might just be the happiest years of your life!

While many of us grow up thinking youth equals joy, research shows that Canadians over 65 often report greater life satisfaction than those in their 30s or 40s. According to Statistics Canada, adults aged 65–79 consistently rank their life satisfaction higher than younger age groups — and those 80+ aren’t far behind.

So what’s driving this wave of well-being among older adults? Let’s take a closer look.

More Time, Less Stress

As we age, many of us step away from the pressures of full-time work and career-building. The shift into retirement — or semi-retirement — opens up space to enjoy life’s simple pleasures: a walk by the lake, a good book, or coffee with friends. For many, the reduction in stress alone is a major contributor to feeling happier and more at peace.

Wisdom Brings Perspective

Older Canadians tend to focus more on what really matters. After decades of life’s ups and downs, they’re often more emotionally resilient and content. A study published by McMaster University found that older adults report a stronger sense of purpose and identity — two major building blocks of long-term happiness.

Connected Communities

It’s a myth that seniors become isolated. In fact, many are more socially active than ever! Programs across the country help older adults stay connected. Here are a few inspiring Canadian resources:

  • Seniors Centre Without Walls (Alberta): A free phone-based program offering group conversations, wellness talks, trivia, and more. Great for those with mobility or transportation challenges.
  • Active Aging Canada: Offers resources on everything from physical activity to mental health, designed specifically for older adults across the country.
  • Connected Canadians: A non-profit that helps older adults build digital literacy so they can stay connected to loved ones online.

Healthy Body, Happy Mind

Today’s seniors are more active than ever. Many local community centres offer free or low-cost programs like yoga, swimming, tai chi, and walking clubs for older adults. Studies — including those supported by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) — show that regular physical activity boosts both mental and emotional well-being at any age.

Let’s Share the Joy

So, what’s your secret to happiness?

Is it spending time with grandchildren? Keeping a journal? Volunteering in your community? Whether it’s a big adventure or a quiet daily ritual, your story matters — and it could inspire someone else.

Reply to this email or join the conversation on our Facebook page — we’d love to hear from you! 

Happiness doesn’t fade with age — it blooms.

Here’s to joyful aging, in all its wisdom and wonder.

in Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

🤝 Supporting Senior Independence: Why Choice Matters

As we age, maintaining the ability to make our own choices becomes one of the most important factors in living well. Choice is not just about freedom—it’s deeply connected to confidence, dignity, and a sense of purpose. When seniors are allowed to decide how they want to live their daily lives, they feel empowered and respected. This sense of control helps prevent feelings of helplessness and isolation, which can often accompany aging.

Independence grows from these choices. When seniors can manage their own routines, activities, and social connections, they build self-confidence and remain engaged in their communities. On the other hand, taking away that ability—even with good intentions—can unintentionally reduce their motivation, confidence and well-being. Our experience shows once someone loses confidence in their ability to make decisions, it takes a very long time to recover from it and when they make one mistake they fall back into not trusting themselves and the cycle often repeats itself. 

Families and caregivers play a vital role in supporting this independence by encouraging seniors to express their preferences and by respecting their decisions. It’s about partnership, not control. Together, we can help our seniors live with dignity, joy, and strength with their independence for as long as possible. 

🤝 A Gentle Guide for Families & Caregivers: Supporting Senior Independence

  1. Ask First, Then Support
    Always begin by asking your loved one what they want or need. For example, instead of deciding to cancel a planned outing, ask if they still want to go and how you can assist. This simple act respects their voice and empowers them to stay involved in their own life choices.
  2. Respect Their Experience
    Seniors have decades of life experience and wisdom that shape their decisions. For instance, an older adult may prefer preparing their own meals because they know their tastes and dietary needs best. Honouring this respects their knowledge and autonomy.
  3. Encourage, Don’t Control
    Offer help only when needed, and avoid taking over activities they are still capable of doing. For example, if a senior wants to do their own gardening, encourage them and assist with heavier tasks instead of doing everything for them.
  4. Trust Their Abilities
    Don’t underestimate what they can do because of their age. A senior who has safely ridden a bike for years might still enjoy it. Trusting their ability to assess their own limits shows confidence in their independence.
  5. Stay Patient and Listen
    Sometimes what seniors need most is to be heard without interruption. If they want to share memories or express concerns, listen attentively without rushing to offer solutions.
  6. Celebrate Their Independence
    Recognize and praise their efforts to maintain their routines and passions. Complimenting someone for continuing to paint or attend community events reinforces their confidence and motivation.
  7. Focus on Safety With Respect
    Discuss any safety concerns openly and involve them in problem-solving. For example, instead of forbidding them to drive, explore options like driving at safer times or using alternative transportation together. 
  8. Remember: Dignity Comes From Choice
    Allowing seniors to make their own decisions, even small ones, preserves their dignity. Whether it’s choosing what to wear or deciding when to socialize, these choices affirm their identity and self-worth.

As time goes on, there may come a moment when your loved one needs more help with things like technology, banking, health appointments, or getting around. When this happens, it’s important to always ask their permission before stepping in to assist. This simple act of respect helps keep some control and decision-making power in their hands. Feeling in control of their own life, even when receiving help, supports their confidence and well-being as they continue the journey of aging.

Recommended Canadian Resource

For families and caregivers seeking more guidance, The Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence (canadiancaregiving.org) offers excellent resources on supporting seniors with respect, autonomy, and practical advice on caregiving. Their materials emphasize dignity and partnership in care — a great complement to this guide.

Supporting seniors means valuing their independence as much as their safety. It’s a balance that enriches their lives—and ours.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

Happy Fathers Day

Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible men in our lives who are fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, and father figures.

Today, we honour your strength, love, guidance, and quiet sacrifices. 

Thank you for all you do — and for being someone we can always count on.

Wishing you a day filled with appreciation, love, and a little well-deserved relaxation. 

— From all of us at the Wellings

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

The Joy of Outdoor Strolls

There’s something magical about summer in Canada. The gentle breeze, the warmth of the sun, and the vibrant greens invite us outdoors—not just to stretch our legs, but to reconnect with nature and ourselves. For adults 60 plus, one of the most accessible and beneficial summer activities is the simple act of walking.

Why walking?

Walking offers low-impact cardiovascular benefits, helps maintain joint flexibility, and supports mental clarity. It also promotes social connection when done with a friend or walking group—something we know is key to healthy aging.

Where to go:

  • Community Trails: Most towns and cities across Canada feature well-maintained paths that wind through parks, waterfronts, or wooded areas.

  • Botanical Gardens: Places like the Montreal Botanical Garden or Toronto’s Edwards Gardens are beautiful and often shaded.

  • National Parks: Seniors receive discounts on Parks Canada passes, making it easier to enjoy gems like Fundy, Banff, or Kejimkujik.

Pro tips:

  • Walk during early morning or early evening to avoid peak heat.

  • Wear supportive shoes, a sun hat, and bring a refillable water bottle.

  • Don’t rush—pause to observe the birds, flowers, and shifting sky. Mindful walking turns exercise into meditation.

Let this be the summer you fall in love with nature all over again.

Garden Therapy

Gardening is more than just planting flowers or veggies—it’s an act of self-care, a way to stay grounded, and a beautiful method of nurturing both your environment and your spirit.

The health benefits:
Gardening encourages gentle movement, builds hand strength, and improves flexibility. It’s also been shown to lower stress levels and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly when tending to plants becomes a mindful, daily ritual.

Easy garden projects for summer:

  • Herb Gardens: Start small with containers of basil, mint, and chives. They’re easy to grow and wonderful in fresh summer dishes.

  • Pollinator Gardens: Support local bees and butterflies with native blooms like echinacea, black-eyed Susans, and milkweed.

  • Vegetable Beds: Raised beds or large pots are perfect for tomatoes, lettuce, or peas—and there’s joy in harvesting your own food.

No yard? No problem.
Balcony gardens and indoor container gardening offer similar benefits. A few pots and a sunny window can turn any space into a green haven.

Safety tips:

  • Use kneelers or garden stools to avoid back strain.

  • Stay hydrated and protect your skin with SPF and light layers.

  • Don’t overdo it—garden for joy, not for perfection.

Gardening reminds us that growth is always possible, no matter the season of life.

in Health and Fitness Posted by My Wellings

How Do You Know When It’s Time to Move to the Wellings?

At some point in our lives, we all face transitions that ask for more than just logic—they ask for heart. And one of the biggest questions we hear from people in their late 60s or early 70s is this:

“How do I know when I’m ready to move into the Wellings?”

It’s a powerful question, because it’s not just about real estate. It’s about identity, freedom, and creating a better rhythm for this next chapter of life.

You Don’t Have to Wait Until You Need To

Many of our members tell us the same thing once they’ve settled in:

 “I wish I’d done this sooner.”

Why? 

Because they made the move while they still had the energy to enjoy the process. They packed on their terms. They said goodbye to their old home with a full heart—not one weighed down by stress or urgency. They stepped into their new lifestyle with excitement, not exhaustion.

Think of it this way: the best time to make a change is before you feel forced to. Not when you’ve been worn down by three months of planning, selling, sorting, and saying goodbye in a rush. Not when the house has become too much, and you’re bringing all that overwhelm with you.

It’s hard to start something new when you’re running on empty.

Are You Feeling More Drained Than Uplifted by Your Home?

Your home may have been the center of your world for decades. A place of family dinners, holidays, laughter, and life. But sometimes—quietly, slowly—it shifts from being a source of comfort to a source of stress.

Is it harder to keep up with the maintenance?

Do you avoid certain stairs or rooms because they just feel like too much?

Are you spending more time managing your house than enjoying it?

These can be the subtle signs. 

The whispers.

Moving Doesn’t Mean You’re Giving Up

Sometimes there’s a fear: If I leave my home, am I giving up a part of who I am?

The truth is, moving into the Wellings isn’t about loss. It’s about choosing to live lighter, freer, and more connected.

You’re not downsizing your life. You’re expanding your possibilities.

At the Wellings, your days are your own. You can lock the door and go visit the grandkids for a week without worrying about the lawn. You can try something new—a fitness class, a dinner with new friends, a quiet moment by the fire—without having to plan around chores or house upkeep.

Make the Move Before the Move Makes You

Here’s the most important thing: You want to walk into this next chapter with strength, not strain. With clarity, not chaos.

When you have the energy, the time, and the presence of mind to make the move well, it becomes something beautiful. You arrive open—not carrying the burden of burnout.

So if you’re asking the question, that’s already a sign. You’re listening to the small, wise voice that says:

Maybe now is the time to let go of what no longer fits, so I can embrace what comes next.

When you’re ready, we’re here.

And if you want to talk it through, we’ll sit with you—no pressure, just conversation.

Because your next chapter should feel like coming home.

And maybe, just maybe, that home is here.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

Time to Get Moving 🚶‍♀️🕺

There’s something magical that happens when we get our bodies in motion.

A walk around the block. A little stretch in the sunroom. Dancing while the kettle boils. Movement doesn’t have to be a marathon—it can be a moment.

And those moments add up.

They wake us up. They lift our spirits. They spark joy. They remind us we’re alive.

At Wellings, movement isn’t about exercise for the sake of it. It’s about celebrating what our bodies can do. It’s about keeping the joints oiled, the blood flowing, the smiles wide.

So whether it’s a stroll with a neighbor, a stretch before breakfast, or a little cha-cha in your kitchen—go ahead. Move a little. Laugh a little. Feel good in your own skin.

This is your time. And it’s time to get moving. 

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

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A New Concept in 55+ Community Living

You’re too young to live in a retirement home, so why consider it? Discover Carefreedom Living® in a community lifestyle, with larger apartments, fully-equipped kitchens, a full range of amenities to choose from. The Wellings concept promotes complete independence, lots of amenity choices, and modern conveniences you will appreciate.

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