When you are young, you tend to think that seniors have a nice easy life. They have come to the time in their life where they can sit back and relax, and enjoy time with their loved ones.
With the onset of COVID-19 that was certainly not the case for many seniors. Many were left alone, isolated and lonely. Whether they were living in their homes or in long-term care, it was not an easy time for many. Lockdowns and restrictions meant that many had to be on their own.
Well it is June, the weather is getting better, and for many lockdowns will soon be lifted. This year, we hope that all of our readers will be sure to support seniors they know, those in the neighbourhood, or even volunteer to help organizations that support seniors.
June is Seniors Month in Ontario. This year’s theme is “Stay safe, active and connected.”
It’s a time when we recognize our amazing older adults and the contributions they‘ve made in communities across Ontario.
The Government of Ontario is focusing on programs and services that enable seniors to remain safe, healthy, engaged and live life to the fullest during the COVID-19covid 19 outbreak and beyond:
- Stay safe: Get information on vaccines and community supports to help seniors stay safe.
- Stay active: Get information on programs and services to help seniors stay physically and mentally healthy.
- Stay connected: Find social, cultural, learning, volunteer and recreational programs to help seniors stay socially connected.
We encourage communities across Ontario to keep older adults informed and find safe and innovative ways to celebrate their positive impact on our lives.
Here are some facts about Ontario’s Senior Population
- Seniors are the fastest-growing demographic in Ontario
- Most seniors living in Ontario want to age at home and in their community
- Ontario has the most culturally diverse seniors’ population in the
country, and is home to more than half (53%) of all immigrant seniors in Canada - 28% of seniors in Ontario, aged 65-69 are working
- 30% are at risk of becoming socially isolated
Recognize a senior in your community
Seniors are recognized through two provincial senior award programs. Nominations for these awards can be made at any point in the calendar year.
- Ontario Senior Achievement Award – anyone can nominate a senior living in Ontario
- Ontario Senior of the Year Award – a municipality can nominate a senior living in Ontario
Municipalities that have submitted a nomination for the Senior of the Year Award often hold ceremonies during Seniors’ Month. Contact your local municipality for more information.
Milestones
You can request a congratulatory message if you or a senior in your life is marking a milestone occasion.
Get information about requesting a message from:
- Her Majesty The Queen – for Canadians celebrating birthdays of 100 years or more and for couples celebrating wedding anniversaries of 60 years or more (at five-year intervals)
- the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario – for Ontarians celebrating birthdays of 90 years or more and for couples celebrating wedding anniversaries of 50 years or more.
- the Prime Minister of Canada – for Canadians celebrating birthdays of 65 years or more (at five-year intervals) and for couples celebrating wedding anniversaries of 25 years of more (at five-year intervals).
- the Premier of Ontario – for Ontarians celebrating birthdays of 80 years or more and for couples celebrating anniversaries of 40 years or more.
You can also contact your Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) or Member of Parliament (MP) for a variety of occasions.
Find your electoral district to contact the constituency office of your local representative.
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