Senior programming during the pandemic

September 29, 2020

Younger people may be partying and hanging out in bars, but we seniors are pretty much staying put. We might don a mask and venture out to the odd store for a quick errand early in the day, but mostly we’re just trying to stay out of harm’s way. It can be frustrating and lonely, not being able to gather with family and friends, not going out for concerts and restaurant meals, feeling stressed all the time and not knowing when this will end. We need support and community more than ever. What’s out there for us now?

Most lifelong learning organizations have made the transition to virtual programming. Often there is an interactive component, so that you can ask questions, have discussions, break into small groups. For some organizations, it’s an opportunity to expand: since they’re no longer limited by seating capacity or catchment area, they can increase their enrolment. There are lots of courses to choose from. Zoom is your friend. See listings at https://seniortoronto.ca/topics/lifelong-learning.

Community centres have made a valiant effort, but the programs are much reduced. Some community centres have cancelled their senior programs altogether. Programs where groups gather closely together are mostly gone: discussion groups, social groups, board games, computer training, group dining, outings. Aquafitness for arthritis has almost disappeared. You can still find some arts, crafts and fitness classes. A few centres are offering virtual classes. Some of the community health centres and service agencies are also offering emergency food programs and assisted transportation to medical appointments. See listings at https://seniortoronto.ca/topics/community-centres .

Like the community centres, senior centres have greatly restricted or cancelled their arts, crafts, fitness, sports and social programs, or switched to virtual formats. Many adult day programs are closed. Instead, they are focusing on essential services: access to food, assisted transportation for medical appointments, medication delivery, respite care, home support. Most try to provide social or counseling services by telephone or through Zoom. See listings at https://seniortoronto.ca/topics/senior-centres.

Here are a few additional resources: