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Healthy Aging

Healthy Aging

Category: Healthy Aging

Living with Intention: A Gentle Start to the Year

The month of January can make even the calmest among us feel like we should be doing more. People are buzzing about New Year’s resolutions, goal setting and self-improvement plans. It’s as if the calendar flips and suddenly we’re all supposed to work at becoming upgraded versions of ourselves. But wait a minute. What if we didn’t pressure ourselves to overhaul our lives every January? What if, instead of making resolutions, we simply set an intention and make that our guide to help us live with awareness and authenticity? Living with intention isn’t about striving or achieving; it’s about choosing how we want to feel, how we want to show up for ourselves and others, and it’s about choosing to focus on what truly matters. That’s a much kinder way to begin the year and it’ll last longer than any diet or 30-day challenge ever could.

We need to clear the clutter in our homes and in our head. Yes both.

Let’s start with something simple like clearing our space. Before you roll your eyes at another decluttering suggestion, I promise this isn’t about colour-coded bins or organized spice racks, unless that sort of thing lights you up, in which case, go for it. I’m talking about making space both physically and mentally. Take a moment to look around your home, and notice what feels heavy or unnecessary? What’s taking up space without adding value? What are you no longer wearing in your closet?  What about that junk drawer, or junk basket we all have? I know I’m not just talking to myself here when I say that editing those areas in our living space can feel surprisingly liberating.

While we’re on the subject, notice what kind of clutter might be piling up in your head. Maybe it’s old worries, outdated self-doubt, or the dreaded “shoulds” like I should be doing more, I should have this figured out by now, I should call my friend back. Let’s be honest, those thoughts don’t add value to our lives, they drain us. Let’s set an intention to clear the clutter, inside and out. Let’s ask whether things and thoughts are adding value to our lives and if they’re not, let’s clear out what no longer serves us, to make space for clarity, and calm. Doesn’t that sound like a great way to start a new year?

“Nothing changes if nothing changes, but when we change our attention, everything shifts.”
– Unknown

Once we’ve made some space, the next step is to fill it: not with more stuff, but with connection. If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that we need each other. Real, human connection is nourishment for the soul, so this year, let’s make a little more room for it. Set a challenge for yourself to talk to someone new, maybe a younger neighbour or a classmate from yoga. Reconnect with an old friend or say yes to that coffee invitation. Heck invite someone for coffee instead of waiting for them to invite you. Join a book club, a walking group, or even an online class. Host a potluck lunch with a few friends or new friends. Connection doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should be genuine.

Our world needs togetherness now more than ever. Every passing hello is recognition, every shared laugh is a joy snack, every small act of kindness helps to build a stronger, more compassionate community. And let’s be honest here, when we open our minds and hearts to connect with people of different ages and experiences, life gets a whole lot more interesting.

“When you live with intention, every day has meaning.” – Anonymous

But the question remains, how do we live every day with intention? In my experience, it’s much simpler than it sounds. It’s about noticing what’s working for you and what isn’t. It’s about choosing to be kind even when it’s inconvenient, to listen more carefully and mindfully, to speak with care and compassion, and to appreciate the beauty in our daily life. Living with intention is an ongoing practice; it’s a commitment not a fleeting statement. It’s noticing the sunrise or sunset, taking a beat before responding, choosing gratitude over complaining and giving ourselves grace when we forget all of that because we’re human. It’s giving us permission to be a work in progress, while still celebrating how far we’ve come. Intention isn’t about perfection, it’s about awareness.

“Every moment is a fresh beginning.” – poet, T.S. Eliot

As we step into this fresh new year, maybe we can begin to let go of the pressure to be better and simply allow ourselves to be. Clear a little space, connect a little more, and approach each day with curiosity and kindness. That’s what living with intention looks like: not striving, but flowing, not forcing, but allowing, not changing but shifting our perspective slightly. As you ease into 2026, may you find peace in your heart, clarity in your space, and beautiful connections that remind you of how much you matter.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

The Season of Appreciation

December often feels like it’s wrapped in glitter and expectation. It’s a time of giving and gathering and for many of us, there’s an underlying pressure to do it all perfectly. Yet behind the sparkle and bustle lies a beautiful opportunity to pause and remember what truly matters. In Canada, we’re blessed with a rich mosaic of cultures and traditions. For some, December means Christmas; for others, it’s Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply welcoming a new year. Whatever we celebrate, we can all agree that appreciation is universal. It speaks every language, transcends every holiday, and unites us in our shared humanity. This month let’s celebrate not through the size of our gifts, but through the depth of our appreciation.

“Gratitude is one of the sweet shortcuts to finding peace of mind and happiness inside. No matter what is going on outside of us, there’s always something we could be grateful for.” – author Barry Neil Kaufman

There’s a certain magic that comes from being seen, from having someone acknowledge our efforts, our kindness, our resilience or simply our presence. It doesn’t take much to spark that magic. It could be a handwritten note, a warm smile, a few thoughtful words with the intention of saying: I see you, and I appreciate you. These gestures, though small, carry extraordinary power. They lift spirits, deepen connections, and remind us that we matter. Appreciation, after all, is not about grandeur, it’s about being genuine. Imagine surprising a neighbour with a note of thanks for always waving hello or sending a gift card to someone who’s made your life easier this year. Maybe it’s leaving a kind comment for a staff member or taking time to tell a loved one how much they mean to you. These moments cost little and give much. They shift our focus from doing to being from giving because we should, to giving because we feel grateful and we want to express it.

“If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough.” – theologian Meister Eckhart

These days, I’ve let go of most of the holiday shopping lists. Instead, I find joy in carrying on family traditions that fill my kitchen and my heart with sweetness. Ahead of the holidays, I make the plum pudding my mum and godmother made together, and the white fruitcake my husband’s mum baked each year. I make lots of both and give them as gifts to friends and colleagues. It’s not about the size of the gift, but the spirit of it. It’s a way to let people know they matter to me. For me now, that’s what the season is all about: it’s about the presence, not the presents.

“Gratitude always comes into play; research shows that people are happier if they are grateful for the positive things in their lives, rather than worrying about what might be missing.” – author, explorer Dan Buettner

Appreciation is contagious in the best way. When we take a moment to notice someone’s light, it encourages them to shine even brighter and to pass that light along. When I started becoming a happiness expert (as in becoming expert in my own happiness) someone said to me that using the light in ourselves to spark a light in someone else is the greatest gift we can offer. I’ve never forgotten those words that now guide my life. I’ve seen for myself that one kind word can change the course of a day, and a small act of gratitude can brighten an entire season. So, as the year draws to a close, may we all find peace in simplicity and joy in appreciation. Let’s give thanks to the people who make our days brighter, for the lessons that helped us grow, and for the countless small moments that make life rich and beautiful. Because in the end, it’s not the presents that fill our hearts, it’s the presence of appreciation.

I’ve got a few suggestions to spark your imagination. Try one or two, heck do them all and remember that no gesture of appreciation is too small.

  • Write a Thank You for Being You Note. Instead of thanking someone for what they did, thank them for who they are. A short, handwritten note saying: you bring joy wherever you go, can stay with someone for years.
  • Offer the Gift of Listening. Give someone your undivided attention: no phone, no multitasking, simply listening with compassion is one of the purest forms of appreciation.
  • Recognize a hidden helper. Express gratitude to someone who rarely gets noticed, like a grocery clerk, mail carrier, or neighbor who quietly cares for others. A simple message to say: I see you and appreciate you can brighten their entire week.
  • Leave a Surprise of Kindness. Slip an anonymous note of appreciation into a library book, tip jar, or public bulletin board. You never know who might find it at just the right time.
  •  Appreciate Yourself. Stand in front of a mirror and say out loud what you appreciate about you. The season of appreciation starts and deepens with self-love because you are important, and you matter.
in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

Tech-Savvy Seniors: How to Stay Connected and Independent with These Top Tools

Technology for Seniors — More Accessible Than Ever

Today’s seniors are more connected than ever before, thanks to user-friendly technology designed to make daily life easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to video chat with loved ones, manage your health, or just have fun, Canada offers a range of products and services tailored to older adults.

Video Calling Made Simple

One of the most popular ways seniors stay connected is through video calling. Devices like the GrandPad — a tablet designed specifically for older users — feature large buttons, simplified interfaces, and built-in apps for video calls, email, and photo sharing.

For those with existing tablets or smartphones, apps like Zoom, FaceTime (for Apple users), and WhatsApp offer free, easy ways to chat with family across the country and beyond.

Smart Home Devices for Safety and Comfort

Smart speakers and home assistants are becoming a staple in many Canadian senior households. The Amazon Echo and Google Nest Hub allow voice control of lights, thermostats, and even emergency calls, providing both convenience and peace of mind.

Some models come with screens that can show calendars, play music, and display video calls — perfect for seniors wanting a multi-functional assistant.

Wearable Technology for Health Monitoring

Health-focused wearables like the Apple Watch Series 8 or Fitbit Charge 5 track heart rate, sleep quality, and activity levels. They can send alerts if irregular heart rhythms or falls are detected, which is reassuring for both seniors and their families.

Canadian retailers such as Best Buy and The Source often offer tutorials on using these devices, helping seniors get comfortable with wearable tech.

Entertainment and Social Media

Social media platforms such as Facebook remain popular among Canadian seniors, providing a way to share photos, join community groups, and keep up with news.

TikTok, surprisingly, has attracted a growing number of older users, who enjoy its short, entertaining videos and easy-to-use interface.

Where to Get Help

Several Canadian organizations offer tech support tailored to seniors:

  • Connected Canadians: Offers workshops and tech training.
  • Tech Tutors Canada: Personalized, in-home tech assistance.
  • Seniors’ Centre Without Walls: Phone-based digital literacy.

Final Thoughts

Technology doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right tools and support, seniors across Canada are embracing digital life — making connections, enjoying new hobbies, and living independently longer than ever.

What’s your favourite tech gadget or app? Share your story and help inspire others!

in Health and Fitness, Healthy Aging Posted by The Good Life With Kat & Nat

Podcasts to Spark Connection and Gentle Storytelling

  1. The Grand Life: Wholehearted Grandparenting

U.S.-based but universally relatable, this podcast explores what it means to be a grandparent today — including topics like communication, legacy, and creating meaningful traditions.

  1. Stories from the Village of the Small Houses (CBC Podcast)

A beautifully told, intergenerational story of Métis heritage, family, and resilience. Wonderful for understanding the power of stories, especially in a Canadian context.

  1. Unlocking Us with Brené Brown

Brené speaks often about vulnerability, connection, and listening — which are all essential to sharing wisdom without preaching. Her episodes on generational relationships and leadership are especially valuable.

  1. The Wisdom Daily Podcast

Short reflections on how to live a wise life, with topics that touch on relationships, aging, and how to be a positive influence in others’ lives.

  1. Elder Wisdom: Stories from the Green Bench (Schlegel Villages – Canada)

A podcast featuring Canadian elders reflecting on their lives, values, and lessons. It’s deeply moving and provides examples of how storytelling, not preaching, makes wisdom stick.

in Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Between Harvest and the Holidays, November is the Season of Togetherness

November feels like a pause between seasons. The harvest and Thanksgiving are behind us, the holidays are ahead, and as the days grow shorter, this quiet space is an invitation to turn to one another. What if we thought of November as the Season of Togetherness: a time to gather, share, and plant seeds of connection to sustain us through what could be an isolating time?

Having warm connections with other people is one of the keys to our longevity. It’s not just pleasant, it’s essential. Research shows that people with strong social ties enjoy better health, live longer lives, and have a stronger sense of purpose. In fact, social connection is as beneficial for health as regular exercise or a balanced diet. When we gather over food, stories, or play, we nurture not only our relationships but also our resilience. November gives us a natural space to collect ourselves and set a template for togetherness in the winter months ahead. Here are some simple ways to gather, share, and plant seeds of joy.

“There is something profoundly satisfying about sharing a meal. Eating together, breaking bread together, is one of the oldest and most fundamentally unifying of human experiences.” –author, Barbara Coloroso

Enjoying a meal with other people is one of life’s great pleasures. Studies confirm that communal meals lead to better nutrition, healthier choices, and greater life satisfaction. I’ve always enjoyed potluck lunches or dinners because they give each participant one dish to focus on and offer everyone an opportunity to shine. Not a baker? You can take on a side dish of your choice. Not a cook at all? You’re still invited even if you pick something up at the grocery store, or you can play host. Or each participant can host it, whether it’s once a week, every two weeks or once a month and if you like, you can create a theme for your potluck.

The best thing about this way of sharing food in my opinion is the casual nature of it. It doesn’t need to be fancy or complicated: family favorite recipes are often what’s appreciated. Plus, there’s sometimes a good story to accompany these dishes, and that just enhances the meal. What matters is the ritual; even something like simple tea and cookies can turn into a meaningful gathering when our intention is to share with others.

“Play is the highest form of research.” – Albert Einstein

I never imagined Albert Einstein as a playful person but clearly, he played around with all sorts of ideas to land on his theory of relativity, which changed how we understand energy and mass. He makes the point that play is about exploring the world and learning about it in ways we wouldn’t experience if we sat on the sidelines. Somehow, we’ve picked up the notion that play is frivolous, idle or a guilty pleasure, but far from it. Play helps with creativity and problem solving. It provides space for us to be present in our lives and that’s often when we receive ideas that help in other areas of our lives. So, thanks to Einstein we all have full permission to play. Let’s be clear, we are all children at heart, aren’t we? Games provide connection, laughter, a little lighthearted competition, and they keep our mind sharp. Research shows that playing cards and board games is associated with better memory and lower dementia risk. Anyone for a game of Solitaire or Scrabble?

To keep things interesting, you could try a rotating game get-together. It could be cards one week, then Scrabble or trivia the next week, and so on. The addition of snacks, music, or themes keeps things sparkling.

“After nourishment, shelter and companionship, stories are the thing we need most in the world.” – author, Philip Pullman

Do you have a favourite story to tell? Is there something unique in the way you grew up that would make for a good story? Did you grow up in a small town? Was your family transferred around the country like mine was? What was that like? What was your favourite thing about it? We’re all carrying a library of experiences and sharing our stories helps to make us feel seen, heard, and valued. The truth is that sharing our stories can boost our emotional wellbeing and strengthen our unique identity. A story circle could be focused on a theme like your first job, where you grew up, a memorable holiday or a time when you took a risk and called on courage to help you navigate. Others may not want to watch your holiday movies but if you have an interesting experience to share, that would be perfect. I learned early in my television career to always keep the audience in mind, so remember that when you’re thinking about what would make an interesting story for them.

Here’s a suggestion: we visited Australia/New Zealand recently. If I was invited to share stories from that experience I would happily do so and I’d bring along one of my favourite snacks, New Zealand golden kiwi, to give everyone a taste of what is now one of my favourite fruit. The story circle should be informal, perhaps in someone’s living room with snacks and refreshments (back to the food sharing idea). It’s important to remember that we’re never finished with learning. Allowing others to tell their stories as well as having the courage to share our own, keeps us connected and curious in this season of togetherness.

“Gratitude is riches; complaint is poverty.” – Doris Day

Regardless of the time of year, gratitude is always in style. Gratitude itself is powerful medicine and using it regularly has been shown to improve sleep, reduce depression and increase happiness. It’s very easy to incorporate gratitude or appreciation into your day by writing down in a journal three to five things you’re grateful for when you start or end the day. You can create a gratitude jar where you write down what you’re grateful for, pop it in the jar and when you need a pick-me-up, go back and read what you wrote. You can create a wall of appreciation, using post it notes to express what you’re grateful for; you can send notes of appreciation to others who may have helped you or whom you admire. You can start your story circles or potluck meals by asking everyone to share what they’re grateful for. However you choose to incorporate gratitude into your day, know that you are strengthening your feelings of abundance, resilience and belonging.

“The best is yet to come.” – William Shakespeare

I always have something on my calendar to look forward to. It could be lunch or coffee with friends, visits with family, a brain-storming session for a work project, a movie date, you get the idea. Our feeling of connection is reinforced when we have something to look forward to and research shows that anticipating positive events boosts our well-being. November is the perfect time to map out winter gatherings; let’s call it our calendar of joy because it offers everyone something bright to anticipate after the holiday lights fade.

“Those who have a strong sense of love and belonging have the courage to be imperfect.” – researcher Brené Brown

Togetherness is a choice we make, season by season. By leaning into the quiet invitation of November, we give ourselves the gift of belonging. Pot-luck meals, game nights, story circles, and simple gratitude rituals remind us that joy multiplies when it’s shared. Let’s step into the Season of Togetherness, and plant seeds of connection that will flourish through all seasons.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

Canada’s Growing Senior Power — You’re Part of Something Big!

There’s a powerful wave rising across Canada — a wave of experience, wisdom, and vitality. Canada’s senior population has now surpassed six million, and it’s growing every year. But this isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the vibrant community of older adults who are actively shaping the country’s future.

According to Statistics Canada, seniors made up nearly 18% of the population in 2023, and that percentage is expected to climb to almost a quarter of all Canadians by 2036. This demographic transformation, sometimes called “the silver tsunami,” isn’t something to fear — it’s something to celebrate.

Seniors today are redefining what it means to age. They’re more active, engaged, and connected than ever before. From volunteering thousands of hours in local communities to mentoring young people, older adults contribute significantly to Canadian society. The Canadian Institute for Health Information notes that these contributions enrich the social fabric and help build stronger communities.

Economically, seniors wield considerable influence. As highlighted by The Conference Board of Canada, they control a growing share of household wealth and represent a dynamic consumer group. This “silver economy” is prompting businesses to rethink products and services to better serve the diverse interests and needs of older adults.

Health and wellness are front and center in this vibrant senior community. Many seniors embrace active lifestyles, participate in lifelong learning, and maintain strong social connections — all of which contribute to longer, healthier lives. The Government of Canada’s Active Aging Strategy encourages these behaviors, recognizing that a thriving senior population benefits everyone.

Moreover, seniors are advocates and leaders, championing causes like age-friendly cities, accessible healthcare, and transportation services. Organizations such as the National Seniors Council work tirelessly to ensure seniors’ voices influence public policy and social programs.

What’s truly inspiring is how diverse and inclusive this community is. Canadian seniors come from all walks of life, cultures, and backgrounds, enriching the country with their stories, talents, and perspectives.

So, whether you’re a senior yourself or have loved ones who are, remember: you are part of something big. The growing senior community is a vital force in Canada, shaping the future with wisdom, resilience, and heart.

What’s your story? How are you contributing to this powerful community? Share your experiences, get involved, and celebrate the strength of Canada’s seniors today.

Resources for Seniors in Canada:

Together, we’re building a future where seniors thrive and lead.

in Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Creative Late Bloomers: Inspiration at Any Age

Did you know that the famous American folk artist Grandma Moses began painting in her 70s — and went on to become world-famous? Her story reminds us all: creativity and new passions can blossom at any stage of life.
In Canada, countless seniors are discovering new hobbies and artistic talents later in life, proving that age is no barrier to creativity.

Why Creativity Matters

Engaging in creative activities like painting, writing, music, or crafting isn’t just enjoyable — it also offers mental and emotional benefits. Research from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Therapy shows that creative expression helps reduce stress, improves cognitive function, and fosters a sense of purpose among older adults.
Creative hobbies can also boost social connections, whether through community art classes, gallery visits, or sharing your work with family and friends.

Canadian Seniors Embracing Creativity

Many seniors in Canada are embracing the arts later in life. Programs like Arts Health Network Canada support creative projects that enhance wellness for older adults.
For example, in Toronto, the Seniors Art Program at the Harbourfront Centre offers painting, pottery, and other classes tailored to seniors’ interests and abilities. Participants often speak about the joy of learning new skills and the pride in creating something uniquely their own.

It’s Never Too Late to Begin

Whether you’ve always dreamed of painting, writing a memoir, trying pottery, or learning to play an instrument — there’s no time like the present.

Start small:

  • Pick up a sketchbook and doodle.
  • Join a local art workshop or community centre class.
  • Explore online tutorials tailored for beginners.
  • Attend local gallery exhibits for inspiration.

Remember, creativity isn’t about perfection — it’s about self-expression and joy.

What Would You Love to Try?

We’d love to hear about your creative dreams! Have you recently started a new hobby? Or is there something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t yet?

Reply to this email or share your story on our social media channels — your journey could inspire someone else to start their own creative adventure.

in Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Autumn Living: Simple Steps for a Healthier You

It is officially cozy sweater season. As the air cools and the leaves transform to fall colors, nature reminds us that change is constant. Summer babies like me feel the season slipping away; I’ve had to work at adjusting my mindset, so that I can appreciate and enjoy every season. I’ve learned to love walks in the crisp air, and I’ve become something of a soup wizard in the cooler months. Even though I’ve learned to love fall, if seasons were children, summer would still be my favourite. LOL.

“May you Fall in love with October and all the beauty it brings,
 May your life be as colorful as the turning of the leaves, on each blessed autumn day.”
– poet Charmaine J. Forde

Just as the trees prepare for the months ahead, we too have an inner clock that encourages us to take stock and prepare ourselves for the season to come. Our well-being is influenced by the rhythms of the seasons and as we adjust to less daylight and cooler temperatures, let’s embrace autumn as a natural time to apply simple habits that will help us thrive in body, mind and spirit. 

“My favorite color is October.” 
– Unknown

One of the four pillars of wellness we’re going to focus on here is sleep, which is an important underpinning when it comes to living well. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIH), though it may seem simple, sleep is a complex process. Many parts of the brain collaborate to produce signals that prepare us for sleep. Our body clock provides the timing for sleep while other signals in the body lead us there. Melatonin, a hormone that’s released in the body when it gets dark, makes us feel sleepy. Our energy level, heart, lungs, brain and our mood are impacted by sleep. A good night’s rest makes us more open to learning new things, provides the energy for creativity, having swift responses, solving problems, creating new memories and impacts our attention span. Over time, lack of sleep can have an impact on our blood pressure, our mood, our heart function and our risk of diabetes, not to mention our day-to-day functioning.

I’m no sleep expert but I have a few suggestions to add to what the experts would tell us. They’d say to have a sleep routine as well as a bedtime routine. I would add: write a to-do list for the next day before you wrap up the day, so you don’t have to think about it. The list will be waiting for you when you start the day and it’ll serve to free up some real estate in your brain, so it can rest and detox as it should while you’re sleeping. I love a good nap but if I snooze after 3:00pm it’ll mess with my sleep, and I avoid exercise, alcohol and caffeine in the evening unless I want to have a restless night.

“Fall has always been my favorite season. The time when everything bursts with its last beauty, as if nature had been saving up all year for the grand finale.”
– author Lauren DeStefano 

Foodwise, autumn is a favourite in our house. The harvest of root vegetables roasted in the oven, everything but the kitchen sink soups and fall fruit are both comforting and nourishing. Rich in vitamins and minerals, fall produce is great for our immune system. There’s lots of fiber which is good for our digestion and contributes to a healthy gut. Let’s talk about heart health: lowering cholesterol and blood pressure by favouring these colourful vegetables and fruit. Our mothers and their mothers had the best recipes that have stood the test of time. Roasted squash and sweet potatoes, roast turkey that’s both impressive and so easy to do for a family supper. Pumpkin loaf and muffins, apple crisp, apple pie, they’re all chef’s kiss yumminess in my opinion.

“Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.”
– author Jim Bishop

Let’s not forget the importance of movement as the weather gets cooler. Being active in a variety of ways avoids boredom and keeps not only our parts lifted but our spirits too. Tried yoga? Stretching for fun? Boxing is cool, as is indoor walking when you can’t take the cold. There’s swimming, dancing and on-line classes galore. There are sports like table tennis and bowling to name a few. Figure out what resonates with you or what you really enjoyed as a kid and give it a whirl. It’s important for us to challenge ourselves while also going easy on ourselves. Life is not a contest, it’s meant to be enjoyed, and having a variety of activities in our day will enhance pleasure in every aspect of our lives.

“If a year was tucked inside of a clock, then autumn would be the magic hour.”  
– poet Victoria Erickson

May I ask who lights you up and makes you feel great? When you think about that person, you feel like you matter. Let’s have more of those people in our circle; let’s surround ourselves and let’s surround others with laughter, support, empathy, compassion, and as much fun as we can get our hands on. Being connected is our lifeline when it comes to living a healthy and happy life. Research shows the greatest predictor of our longevity is how well we’re connected socially. So those wonderful people who make you feel like a million bucks are really medicine you should take every day.

It’s important to remember that our well-being is about adding simple steps to our day; not about striving to reach anything or anywhere. What we’re doing is honouring ourselves and recognizing what keeps us on a good track. Daylight may be dwindling but the lightness we’ll feel inside when we take care of ourselves by nurturing good habits will help us sail through the cooler months with calm and resilience.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

Volunteering — The Heartbeat of Happier Living

Volunteering: A Simple Act with Big Benefits

Did you know that just a few hours of volunteering a week can significantly reduce loneliness and boost happiness — at any age?

In Canada, volunteering has long been recognized as a powerful way to stay socially connected, improve mental health, and give back to the community. According to Statistics Canada’s 2022 Canadian Social Survey, nearly 44% of Canadians aged 65 and over volunteer regularly, demonstrating the strong role seniors play in community life.

Why Volunteering Matters

Loneliness is a serious public health issue, especially among older adults. The Canadian Index of Wellbeing reports that social isolation affects nearly one in four seniors, increasing risks of depression and physical decline. Volunteering offers a natural antidote.

“As a volunteer, you build meaningful relationships and gain a sense of purpose,” says Dr. Samir Sinha, Canada’s Director of Geriatrics at Mount Sinai Hospital. “That connection can help reduce feelings of loneliness and foster happiness.”

Kindness Benefits Everyone

Volunteering is not just good for those receiving help — it benefits volunteers too. Research from The University of British Columbia found that seniors who volunteer experience lower rates of chronic pain and better overall mental health.

As Linda, a volunteer with Meals on Wheels Toronto, shares:
“I look forward to every delivery because it connects me to my community. It gives me joy and keeps me active.”

Opportunities Across Canada

There are countless ways to get involved, whether it’s helping at a food bank, mentoring youth, or participating in community gardening.

Some notable programs include:

Have You Ever Volunteered?

Volunteering comes in many forms and every contribution counts. Whether you’ve been volunteering for decades or are considering starting, we want to hear from you!

What has volunteering meant to you? What’s your favourite way to give back?

Reply to this email or join the conversation on our Facebook page.

Volunteering is more than an act of kindness — it’s a gift that enriches both the giver and the community. It’s never too late to start.

in Carefreedom Living®, Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

Tech-Savvy Seniors — Staying Connected in a Digital World

Tech-Savvy Seniors Are Changing the Game

Did you know the fastest-growing group of tech users in Canada is adults aged 65 and over? That’s right — more and more seniors are embracing technology to stay connected with family, manage their homes, and explore new hobbies.

According to Statistics Canada’s 2023 Digital Divide report, nearly 80% of Canadians aged 65+ now use the internet regularly, a sharp increase from just 50% a decade ago. Whether it’s video calls with grandchildren, smart home devices, or even TikTok videos, older adults are proving they can keep up with the latest trends — and often set them.

Why Tech Matters More Than Ever

For many seniors, technology offers more than convenience. It combats social isolation — a serious concern in Canada, especially in rural and northern communities. The Canadian Digital Service has partnered with various organizations to provide tech training and resources specifically designed for older adults.

One standout program is Connected Canadians, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping seniors develop digital literacy through free workshops and one-on-one support. As founder Suzanne Baker says, “When seniors learn to navigate technology, they unlock new ways to connect, learn, and live independently.”

Popular Tech Tools Among Canadian Seniors

  • Video Calling Apps: Platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, and WhatsApp keep families close even when miles apart.
  • Smart Home Devices: Voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Nest offer hands-free control of lights, thermostats, and reminders — making daily tasks easier and safer.
  • Health Tech: Wearables such as Fitbit and Apple Watch help monitor heart rate, activity levels, and medication reminders.
  • Social Media: Many seniors are exploring Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok to share stories and stay entertained.

Resources to Get Started

If you’re curious about learning new tech or helping a loved one get started, check out:

What’s Your Favourite Tech Tool?

We’d love to hear: what technology has made the biggest difference in your life or the life of someone you love? Reply to this email or join the conversation on our social media pages.

Technology is a bridge, not a barrier — and Canadian seniors are leading the way in proving that age is just a number when it comes to tech.

in Carefreedom Living®, Healthy Aging Posted by My Wellings

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