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 or independence. With good habits, supportive environments, and inclusive attitudes, we can stay healthy and enjoy life.
Judging or treating people unfairly based on age can negatively affect health and wellbeing—this is called ageism. Ageism is linked to increased stress, loneliness, and reduced access to care and opportunities. Rethinking how we view aging is part of building communities where everyone can thrive.
The health unit supports healthy aging by working with local groups to make our communities safer and healthier.
We:
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Collaborate with community partners invested in older adults’ health and wellness.
- Share research, best practices, and resources.
- Advocate for policy changes and improved services to increase older adults’ wellbeing.
- Challenge ageism by promoting respect, inclusion, and dignity for people of all ages.
What Matters to Your Health
Promoting Optimal Aging
Optimal aging means staying active, healthy, and connected—physically, mentally, and socially.
Check out our page on optimizing your health to learn things you can do for maintaining your independence.
Changing the Conversation About Age
Ageism happens when people are treated unfairly simply because of their age. It’s more than just hurtful, it’s harmful. 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
- Limit opportunities
- Contribute to poor health, poverty, and even shorter lifespans
- Lead to loneliness, stress, and fewer chances to engage in community life
We can change this. When we challenge ageism, we build a society where everyone, at every age, can live with dignity, respect, and full participation
“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 happen at home. They can cause broken bones, hospital visits, and often lead to a loss of independence or even death. But here’s the good news—most falls can be prevented.
Optimizing health is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of having a life changing fall.
Check out our page on optimizing your safety to download our home safety checklist.
Caring for the Caregiver
Caring for someone is important and kind; caring for yourself matters just as much.
Caregiving can impact your health, through increasing stress and tiredness. You need to protect your independence by optimizing your health. Check out the links below for support and resources to help caregivers stay strong, healthy, and confident.
Wellness Support
Caregiver Education & Courses
Local & Regional Support
Financial Support Tools
- Benefit Wayfinder (Prosper Canada): Find tax credits, government benefits, and financial support for caregivers.
- Guide for Family and Caregivers – Ontario.ca: Government programs, respite services, and help with caregiving costs.
For more information:
