Getting older is a normal part of life. Our bodies and minds change, and that can feel hard, especially if we live with pain or health challenges. But aging doesn’t mean losing strength, purpose, or independence. With supportive environments, meaningful connections, and inclusive communities, people can optimize well-being and enjoy life.
The health unit supports optimal aging by working with community partners to create inclusive, age-friendly communities where people can age with dignity, remain connected, and participate fully in community life.
We:
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Collaborate with community partners to support optimal aging and age-friendly communities.
- Share evidence, best practices, and resources that promote well-being, inclusion, and quality of life.
- Support initiatives that improve accessibility, community connectedness, and participation.
- Advocate for healthy policies, services, and environments that reduce barriers and support people as they age.
- Challenge ageism by promoting respect, inclusion, and dignity for people of all ages.
What Matters to Your Health
Promoting Optimal Aging
Optimal aging means maximizing well-being, independence, participation, and quality of life as we age.
Learn practical ways to support your well-being and independence on our staying active, and connected—physically, mentally, and socially.
Check out our page on optimizing your health page.
Changing the Conversation About Age
Judging or treating people unfairly based on age can negatively affect health, wellbeing and quality of life —this is called ageism.
According to the World Health Organization, ageism includes negative thoughts, feelings, or actions toward others, or even yourself, based on age.
Ageism can:
- Lower confidence and self-esteem
- Limit opportunities for participation and inclusion
- Contribute to poor health outcomes and financial insecurity
- Increase loneliness, stress, and social isolation
- Reduce access to care and other opportunities
We can change this.
Rethinking how we view aging is part of building communities where everyone can thrive. By challenging ageism and promoting inclusion, we help create communities where people of all ages can contribute, participate, and live with dignity and respect.
“Aging isn’t a problem to be solved or a disease to be cured. It’s how we move through life—and more of us are doing more of it than ever before in human history. What stands between us and making the most of these longer lives? Ageism.”
— Ashton Applewhite
Learn more at the Canadian Coalition Against Ageism and the World Health Organization
Preventing a Fall
Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and most occur in or around the home. Many falls can be prevented by staying active, maintaining strength and balance, reviewing medications, and creating a safer home environment.
Visit our on optimizing your safety page for safety tips and a downloadable home safety checklist.
Caring for the Caregiver
Providing care for someone can be rewarding, but it can also affect your well-being. Support, education, and community resources can help caregivers manage stress, prevent burnout, and maintain their own health and quality of life.
Check out the resources below
Wellness Support
Caregiver Education & Courses
Local & Regional Support
Financial Support Tools
For more information:
