Blog

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly disrupted individual and societal experiences of end of life care, grief and bereavement due to public-health measures to counter the spread of the virus. Alternative or virtual ways must be found to honor the memory of our loved ones and provide comfort to their close friends and families.

There has been a strong trend towards stigmatization of older adults and intergenerational divisions since the beginning of the pandemic. You can do your part to fight social stigma during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this troubled time when we are isolated, but also bombarded with stressful information, we must find solutions to entertain ourselves and escape (if only for a moment) from this reality. Could reading be part of the solution?

“Co-housing” is a housing option for older adults aimed at helping them maintain their independence, ensure their security, and maintain an active social and community life. Learn more about co-housing to know if this model resonates with your values and can meet your needs.

Family caregivers in hard-to-reach communities are at greater risk of unequal access to health and social services. How can we support them?

Most Canadians eat out once a week or more, because it is more convenient, they don't have time, don't like to, or don't know how to cook. Some initiatives, such as collective kitchens, have been launched here and abroad to meet the nutritional, economical and social needs of people in the community.

Food not only nourishes the body, it helps maintain or rebuild the individual and social identity of older adults. Deteriorating health or any other change due to aging threatens the social context of food activities, which can lead to social isolation and an identity crisis.

Civic participation is a pillar of our communities, and can help people keep a healthy, active and engaged life.

Parents are primarily responsible for meeting the needs of children, but grandparents play an increasing role in this area. Although they have some experience, having raised their own children, grandparents may face new challenges, some of which are unique to their grandchildren's generation. Can parenting interventions equip them to fulfil their role with grandchildren?

Immersive technologies are developing at great speed and have spread to many areas. While some envision that immersive technologies could alleviate social isolation and loneliness, the evidence remains limited and some experts have expressed concerns that they may actually exacerbate social isolation.

Gardening is more than a hobby. It is an amazing activity that can have positive effects on health and well-being. Before taking out your shovels and rakes, plan your gardening activities carefully: think about your health and safety, adapt your activities, and socialize.

Aging behind bars poses challenges. Since the vast majority of inmates end up being released into the community, it is important to look into how prison conditions affect older inmates and the support provided to them in order to ensure the success of their rehabilitation and social reintegration.

Older adults are especially at risk of experiencing social isolation and loneliness. The characteristics of strategies tackling these issues are important factors in determining whether or not they work.

Many people have the desire to learn throughout their lives. No wonder so many older adults go back to school, while others turn to online learning!

Intergenerational programs seem to benefit young people, older adults, and society as a whole. Let's learn how to build strong communities with strong intergenerational bonds!

Climate change and rapid urbanization can increase the intensity and frequency of disasters. Many factors influence people’s ability to cope with disasters, such as age, health status, income, social support, and the communication channels used to inform them.

No matter our age, we all have social needs. Volunteering or participating in social activities appears to be the key to address the needs of older adults for greater proximity, meaningful relationships and reciprocity.

Companion animals and animal-assisted therapies can improve the physical and mental health of older adults, and animal-assisted therapies appear promising to alleviate loneliness among older adults.

Fear of crime is associated with negative effects on health and well-being, regardless of age. This fear can be amplified among older adults who are vulnerable, frail, socially isolated, and who no longer benefit from the same family and community support. Discover what the research tells us about strategies to reduce crime and reduce the fear of crime in your community.

Arts have beneficial effects on patients, but also on community-dwelling older adults. It may be time to wake the artist inside you.