Keeping seniors active, engaged key for province, region

York Region received $17,150 to support local seniors programs, announced at Newmarket Health Centre

Newmarkettoday.ca
October 21, 2019
Debora Kelly

A provincial grant of $17,150 will help York Region seniors continue to be active and engaged.

The funding, announced by Newmarket-Aurora MPP Christine Elliott at Newmarket Health Centre yesterday, will support existing programs, as well as new programs and services, according to Katherine Chislett, York Region’s commissioner of community and health services.

“Our government is committed to helping seniors stay healthy, safe and socially connected within York Region, but of course, across Ontario, as well,” said Elliott. “Many seniors face challenges accessing programs and services that support their safety, mental and physical health, and overall well-being.

The grant is part of a $3-million fund the province has allocated to more than 260 projects to benefit seniors.

“Seniors are at risk for social isolation and elder abuse, and our government knows that by helping seniors stay active and engaged in our communities, we can help prevent this,” she added. 

“York Region is growing very rapidly, in fact, our growth is unprecedented. Our senior population is leading that growth -- you guys own the show demographically,” said Chislett to the residents of the long-term care home gathered for the announcement.

“By 2031, one in five people in our region will be 65 years of age and older.”

One of the programs the grant will fund is virtual aid simulation training for community care program staff  “that will help them increase their empathy and really understand the physical challenges of aging and cognitive impairment,” said Chislett.

Another new program that will be offered is “nature’s classroom outreach”, which allows seniors to experience a forest through 3D reality devices, she added.

As well, new virtual reality experience equipment will allow seniors to learn, explore and react, increasing emotional and cognitive stimulation.

“The seniors' community grant (will) keep seniors engaged in activities and programs that encourage social connectivity, physical activity and health, and will also help with nutrition, health and fall prevention, all really really important things. These actions support seniors and caregivers in York Region to stay healthy, independent, socially engaged and active,” Chislett said.

The region’s current programs and initiatives include a seniors strategy, adult daycare, client intervention and support services, long-term care and accessible public transit and trails, York Region Chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson said at the announcement.

“York Region’s seniors contribute to the high-quality of life in our communities,” he said. “We are working to ensure seniors are able to live inclusive, healthy and well-balanced lives. We work hard to connect seniors to the right programs.”