This inspiring supplement shares practical tips for staying active, highlights the importance of social connection, and showcases opportunities to engage with the community.
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AGE IN MOTION: Celebrating Active Aging Week in Manitoba
BY GEORGIA WIEBE
A ctive aging is about maintaining independence, building social connections, and balancing mental and physical well-being. That message is at the heart of Active Aging Week, an annual inter- national initiative that recognizes the vitality of older adults. This year, Active Aging Week takes place from October 5 through 11, combining with Seniors and Elders Month in October. Linda Brown, executive director of Active Aging in Manitoba, says the week is an opportunity to celebrate older adults while challenging com- mon stereotypes about aging. “I think it also helps to dispel some of the ageism that we see in society and just the stereotypes of older adults,” Brown says. For Brown, active aging means taking a well-rounded view of aging. Physical activity is an important part of that, largely because it helps older adults maintain their autonomy as they grow older. “I think that’s key for most older adults,” Brown says. That can mean being able to get in
and out of bed, prevent falls, prepare a meal for yourself, or continue living at home. Creating social connections is another benefit to getting active. Joining a walking group, dance class, or community activity can give people the opportunity to connect with others while improving their physical health. However, challenges related to transportation, mobility and location can make it difficult for people to participate, which is why Brown says communities should consider and pro- vide accommodations for people with different abilities. “Being active has an effect on our physical being, our mental wellness as well and does help a lot of people manage chronic conditions that can be a factor as we get older,” Brown says. Physical activity can help people manage conditions such as hyperten- sion, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and support social and mental well- ness. However, being active doesn’t have to mean joining a gym or doing a strenuous workout.
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Creating social connections is another benefit to getting active. Joining a walking group, dance class, or community activity can give people the opportunity to connect with others while improving their physical health.
“It can be as easy as starting with a 10- or 15-minute walk and slowly increasing that as they feel a bit stron- ger and adapt to the extra activity in their life,” Brown says. Ways to start include parking farther than usual from where you are going, doing stretches at home or taking the stairs whenever possible instead of using an elevator. “It’s just important to keep moving. That’s the key thing,” Brown says. “...move more, sit less. That’s a big part of it.” She says research shows sitting for over an hour is similar to smoking 15 cigarettes as far as how detrimental it is to our health. “I usually say to people if you have to sit for a few hours, at least get up every hour or every half hour,” Brown says. Brown says she hopes Active Aging Week will motivate older adults to take that first step. “It’s never too late to get active. Peo- ple can get more fit, more mobile, more flexible at any age,” Brown says. Overall, the goal behind Active Aging Week is to find something enjoyable, keep moving and see how an active and fulfilling life can continue at any age. n
“It’s never too late to get active. People can get more fit, more mobile, more flexible at any age.”
– LINDA BROWN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ACTIVE AGING IN MANITOBA
4 Active Aging Week | SEPTEMBER 12, 2026
PROTECTED WHILE AGING: The Role of Vaccines in Active Aging BY GEORGIA WIEBE
A ctive aging is about more than exercising to stay fit. For older adults, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also mean taking steps to prevent illnesses that could interrupt daily routines. That is where staying up to date on vaccinations can play an important role. In her 25 years as a community pharmacist at Shoppers Drug Mart, Sonal Bachu Purohit has seen firsthand how vaccines can benefit aging adults. “I strongly believe that for older adults, vac- cines aren’t simply about preventing an infection;
opportunity to sit down with a local pharmacist or healthcare provider to review their vaccination history and get their flu shot. “With my patients too, especially if they’re elderly, you know, transportation is a concern or an issue. We can get several vaccines at the same time during the one visit,” Purohit says. Another point to note is to get reliable informa- tion about vaccines from healthcare professionals instead of solely searching things up online. “Dr. Google is not the most reliable source of information. In our day and age, a lot of people do resort to Dr. Google for information, but the updated information does come from a healthcare provider, such as a pharmacist,” Purohit says. She mentions that even when a vaccinated per- son becomes infected, vaccinations can improve the odds of having a less serious outcome, but they are also not the only thing older adults should focus on as they age. “At any age, your mind is just as important as your body,” Purohit says. “If the mind is healthy, your body’s going be healthy. So physical fitness, nutrition, social connections and outreach are all part of the therapeutic package.” She says no vaccine is 100 per cent effective, but the goal is to substantially reduce the risk of severe illness or disease. “They are a game changer. I’m all about preven- tion rather than being reactive. So let’s prevent, protect and preserve,” Purohit says. n
they’re about preventing the complications that can follow infections; hospitalizations, pneumonia, loss of function, independence and sometimes even death. So that’s why that’s very important,” Purohit says. Her message to patients can be summed up in three words: prevent, protect and preserve. “Prevent serious infections from happening, protect against complications and let’s preserve your independence and quality of a good life,” Purohit says. She says these vaccines can help with, but are not limited to, preventing shingles, influenza, pneumococcal disease and respiratory viruses. “If the individuals are not vaccinated, what they’re at higher risk of are the complications that could be associated with it,” Purohit says. “So it’s not necessarily the severity of symptoms of flu or pneumonia that patients get severely ill from; it’s the secondary complications that arise from it.” As people get older, Purohit says illness can have a greater impact on someone’s ability to par- ticipate in everyday activities, making it important to think ahead and focus on prevention before getting sick. “The symptoms of flu for the elderly are more debilitating than those in younger people. And that’s just because as we start to age, our ability to fight infections does decrease because our immune system is compromised as we start aging.” She recommends using the fall season as an
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BRIDGING GENERATIONS: Building Stronger Communities Through Connection
break down age-related stereotypes to build stronger, more diverse communities. In Manitoba, AAIM is the umbrella organization for Grand Pals and has offered the program for four years. “Grand Pals is a six- or eight-week program where older adults are matched with a small group of students from grades four or five,” says Brown. “Each week has a theme such as travel, family, home, school or technology, for example, and this knowledge exchange is done through storytelling. Grand Pals is an evidence-based program developed by a teacher to improve social connections, reduce ageism myths, and improve relationships across the generations.” The idea continues to gain steam, as inter- generational programming can make additional use of existing space and enhance offerings at community spaces. Earlier this year, the pro- vincial government announced a 152-space childcare facility to be added to the 200-bed Saul and Claribel Simkin care home. Project 11, an interactive, school-based mental health curriculum created by the True North Youth Foundation, also promotes Grand Pals to their school partners and youth. “Intergenerational programming can take place just about anywhere,” Brown says. “For example, Grand Pals typically happens in a class- room or somewhere on school premises. In some communities, students are brought to the senior centre, a 55+ building or an assisted or support- ive living facility, a public library or community centre. These days many older adult groups are meeting in churches, so if a school was in the vicinity that could be a good way to utilize some underutilized space.” n
BY KRISTIN MARAND
S haring knowledge and experiences across generations was once far more common, when families and communities would gather to hear and learn from their elders. With the world feeling smaller today, families are more spread out for many reasons, and communities now exist in new contexts, such as online. Still, the need for real connection across generations has never faded. Interest in inter- generational programming has grown in recent years, as communities become more aware of the benefits of sharing time with folks from other walks of life. “I believe intergenerational programming has become more popular because many stu- dents don’t have grandparents in their lives due to geography and many other factors,” explains Linda Brown, executive director of Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM). “The same goes for older adults - many can be isolated partially due to not having any family close by, geography, and lack of com- munity connections. Organizations that provide services and programming for older adults are looking for unique ways to engage their members in meaningful activities.” In Understanding the Impact of Grand Pals on Older Adults, a 2019 study from the Univer- sity of Guelph identified four main themes as older adults in this intergenerational program described the value of connections made with
students. The themes included connection, rec- iprocity, reminiscence and reflection. The study found that Grand Pals was a positive experience that appeared to benefit the participants’ mental health and well-being. Shared activities, learning and connection are some of the primary benefits when youth and older adults get together. For older adults, benefits include reduced social isolation and increased social engagement through a sense of belonging; improved cognition and quality of life; and reduced ageism. For youth, it offers an oppor - tunity to improve communication skills and better understand past generations; it boosts emotional growth by developing empathy; and it improves respect for other generations. For both groups, these interactions help promote inclusivity and For older adults, the benefits of shared activities include reduced social isolation and increased social engagement through a sense of belonging; improved cognition and quality of life; and reduced ageism.
To learn more about the intergenerational programming offered through AAIM, visit aaim.grandpals.app.
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STRONGER FOR LIFE: How Strength Training Supports Healthy Aging
BY KRISTIN MARAND
E very day at The Wellness Institute, Lori Orchard is amazed by the vibrant, active older adults strength training in their 80s and 90s. While strength or resistance training is advantageous for all ages, there are some import- ant benefits for older adults, including better balance and mobility, which can reduce the risk of falls; building muscle supports maintaining bone density, which in turn helps reduce the chance of fractures; improved cognitive function even for those experiencing dementia; a reduced risk of diabetes; and ultimately the ability to remain independent longer. Orchard coordinates adult fitness and per - sonal training at The Wellness Institute. She is also a certified personal trainer through the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiologists and has an active older adult certification through the Manitoba Fitness Council. “As we age, we lose muscle mass. It starts at age 30 and increases as we age. So, between the ages of 70 and 80 years old, our muscle mass can be 30 to 50 percent lower than it was at the age of 30 if we are not doing any resis- tance training to build more muscle tissue,” she explains. “It’s been shown through studies that
higher priority on balance. We include that in all of our exercise programs for older adults because the more we train balance in a safe environ- ment, they start to realize how they can upright themselves or prevent themselves from falling because the brain has been trained to react.” Orchard says that if your healthcare provider clears you for an exercise program, you may consider working with a physiotherapist or personal trainer to identify moves that are right for your body. Group classes are also available that specifically target strength, mobility and flexibility. Ideally, she says, a full-body exer - cise program two to three days per week on non-consecutive days will ensure you activate all the muscle groups. She also recommends starting with a dynamic (movement-based) warm-up to prepare the body, increase heart rate and body temperature, warm up the mus- cles, joints and ligaments and mentally prepare for your workout. “People who’ve never exercised before or are just getting back into it can begin with body weight exercises, simple things such as sit-to- stands, wall push-ups, and band rows. Using tubing is a really great, effective, and efficient way to get a full-body workout,” she shares. “We want to make sure they’re doing the exer- cises properly and in good form, so they don’t incur any injuries and incorporate balance and mobility. Another thing that we always talk about is listening to your body. If something hurts or doesn’t feel good, change what you’re doing. Maybe do it with a lighter load or a dif- ferent angle.” For those returning to strength training after a period of inactivity, Orchard suggests consulting a certified fitness professional or joining a class with one who stays up to date on the latest research and exercise techniques. She also reminds us to fuel our workouts with proper nutrition and stay hydrated. Lifting weights in a gym isn’t the only way to strength train, Orchard reminds us; you can do resistance training in water, build leg strength with spin classes or work on strength, mobility and flex - ibility in yoga classes. Many community clubs, 55+ buildings and personal care homes also offer exercise classes. n
resistance training slows, and in some cases, can even reverse muscle loss.” Maintaining muscle is important for so many daily activities – Orchard suggests thinking about how many times in a day you may need to squat – getting in and out of a car, sitting and getting up from a chair (or the toilet), getting in and out of the bath, picking up and carrying groceries or doing yard work. The need for strong muscles and good mobility shows up in surprising ways throughout the day. For older adults looking to incorporate strength training into their daily routines, Orchard says it’s never too late to start. She suggests consulting a physician and finding a certified coach or instructor if you are com - pletely new to resistance training. Orchard recommends starting with your bodyweight or light weights and focusing on proper form before progressing, and taking longer rest peri- ods to allow the body to recover. “We want to make sure that we are getting those joints and ligaments and the muscles prepared with a lighter weight, so we can build strength and endurance, and then work up to lifting heavier weights,” she says. “There’s also a
SEPTEMBER 12, 2026 | Active Aging Week 7
Redefining Aging WITH ACTIVE AGING CANADA
BY GEORGIA WIEBE
G rowing older doesn’t have to mean slowing down. Active Aging Canada, a national non-profit, is working to change how Canadians think about aging, starting with keeping people engaged, con- nected, and physically active so they can continue living full, healthy lives at every stage and age. Liza Stathokostas, director of Active Aging Canada, says that while physical activity is a big part of healthy aging, the organization operates within the broader scope of ‘active aging.’ The World Health Organization describes active aging as continued participation in social, economic, cultural, spiritual and civic affairs. “So, while we primarily focus on the promotion of physical activity, we recognize the critical linkages of physical health to social and mental well-being and overall quality of life,” Stathokostas says. For many older adults, staying active can mean joining a fitness class, but it isn’t limited to that. It can also mean making friends in the commu- nity or gaining a new hobby. Active aging can look different for everyone, but the goal remains the same: helping people live independently and enjoy a fulfilling quality of life. Active Aging Canada works along- side organizations such as Active Aging in Manitoba and other groups involved in similar campaigns to support a future where active aging is an important part of building healthy communities. “Manitoba is fortunate to have an organization like Active Aging in Manitoba,” Stathokostas says. The Manitoba initiative focuses on creating opportunities and showcasing older adults as peer leaders, giving them a voice in their communities. While Active Aging Canada is not directly involved in Active Aging Week, Stathokostas says she sees the initiative’s value. The movement not
only celebrates older adults engaging in a fulfilling life, but also connects them with programs, services and resources that can open the door to new opportunities and experiences. Stathokostas says they actively promote movements and organiza- tions involved in Active Aging Week, but that ‘active aging’ requires more than promotion. “It requires sustainable investment and recognition of the significant role physical activity plays in healthy aging, reducing social isolation, supporting independence and improving overall well-being,” Stathokostas says. Increasing funding and support for adults as they age is crucial to creating a high quality of life. Greater investments in programs that support social engagement can help aging adults feel a sense of belonging and connection while reducing social iso- lation. Investing in community-based supports would also help seniors maintain their independence and dig- nity by allowing them to age without needing to move into a long-term care home. That is why advocacy has become an increasingly important part of Active Aging Canada’s work. Along with them and similar organizations, the goal is to build communities where active aging is recognized as an essential foundation for healthy communities across Canada. “Each year, as Active Aging Week grows, we hope this visibility not only inspires active living among Canadi- ans, but also highlights the people, places and spaces needed to support active aging.” As Active Aging Week continues to grow, so does its message that getting older doesn’t have to mean taking a step back. With the right support and connections, Canadians can keep moving forward and make the most of every stage of life. n
8 Active Aging Week | SEPTEMBER 12, 2026
PASSION WITH A PURPOSE: How the Company of Poets Engages Senior Communities BY KRISTIN MARAND
recently released a self-published collection featuring 13 poets ranging in age from 22 to 79, from three countries, called In the Com- pany of Poets: Inviting Joy. The book, as well as the Company’s performances, are produced in conjunction with Dr. James Hargrove, a retired biological scientist and poet. Bay and Hargrove have also been working on a project to turn poems into songs with the help of AI. “Under the leadership of our producer James Hargrove, we began taking poetry and transposing it to songs and videos using various computer tools, and this has proven to be a big hit at both care facilities with big screen TVs, and now around the world with sharing services like YouTube.” Looking ahead, the Company of Poets is planning a remote service for isolated commu- nities using Zoom and is exploring expanding the Company’s offerings to public settings such as open mics and intimate venues like coffee - houses. Bay says that the Company currently deploys several regular readers and partici- pants, but they’re always looking for one more special reader - somebody who has an innate ability to connect with seniors. n Facilities and interested parties may contact Bay via email to discuss possible opportunities at beatnik57@gmail.com.
S taying mentally engaged as we age is just as important as staying physically fit. Mental engagement can help create new connections in the brain, combat memory decline, lift mood, and bring a sense of purpose to daily activities. The more proactive we can be about maintaining our capacities, the longer we can remain independent and enjoy the things we love. For one local poetry lover, sharing verses with senior communities has become a passion with a purpose. Morris Bay, the founder of the Company of Poets and self-proclaimed “hobo poet whose sole purpose is to find a purpose,” was once a bookseller with his own shop, Beatnik Village Bookshop. Company of Poets was founded, he says, as a retirement project, “half out of foolishness and half driven by my background in book selling.” He says his love for poetry grew from the least popular part of his bookstores.
Nobody was buying poetry books at the time, so he ended up in the little section reading them. Over four years, the Company of Poets has grown into a revolving collective of 90 volunteer poets, storytellers, musicians and presenters who bring their offerings to seniors at private shows in hospitals, care homes and 55 plus centres. The Company has performed more than 100 shows at 11 senior facilities, engaging with thousands of residents. “It’s not a business. If we had currency, I would say it would be joy,” Bay explains. “It’s a move- ment. It’s more about the company than the actual poetry. So when outsiders say you’re providing the company, in essence, the seniors at our facilities provide us their company, their time, their stories, their heartbreaks and their joys. To be honest, it’s a blessing and a gift.” In addition to visiting and engaging with senior communities, the Company of Poets
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