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Civic engagement

Volunteers can provide many benefits to society, but being actively engaged in community activities also has benefits for those involved. Participating in meaningful activities is one way for older adults to remain connected to their communities and maintain social ties. Find out more in our resources below.

Break the cycle of isolation and stay healthy: Get involved in your community!
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Social media: Can they be used by older citizens to make their voices heard?
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Making a Better World: Achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals
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  • Web Resource Rating

    The risks of social isolation

    American Psychological Association
    Researchers are studying the effects of loneliness on your mental and physical health. So far, they have found that loneliness can increase your risk of heart disease, depression and other serious health conditions. To combat loneliness, researchers are looking at the benefits of individual and social activities. Read about these activities and more in this resource.
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    A UK review of the benefits of cross-generational friendships

    Aging Equal
    Having intergenerational friendships can promote understanding, and reduce stereotypes, prejudice, and anxiety. Friendships between older and younger people highlights the similarities between people. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Ageism and participation

    Aging Equal
    Older adults are active members of society. But their participation is often impacted by internalized ageism. They are also denied access to opportunities for growth and training due to these attitudes. Read this resource to learn more.
  • Evidence Summary

    Intergenerational programs offer benefits for both younger and older generations

    Journal of Intergenerational Relationships (2019)
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    7 Tips for Managing Your Mental Health During the Covid-19 Pandemic

    National Council on Aging (US)
    Social isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic can cause some people to face additional mental health challenges. This is why managing your stress and anxiety is especially important during this time. Create a routine and stay connected with your friends and family who can provide you support. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Age Discrimination, Caregiving and Health Issues Limit Options for Older Workers

    American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Health
    One of the reasons why older adults may experience underemployment is age discrimination. Underemployment is when someone is overqualified for their job position or is not able to work as many hours as they would like. Read this resource to learn how bias against older adults can cause under employment.
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    Inspiring Wellness: Your Guide to Active Aging in Manitoba

    Active Aging in Manitoba
    This resource can help older adults in Manitoba connect with services and events supporting active aging. The theme of this resource is "Inspiring Wellness". Read this guide to learn about different activities and services available to you in your community.
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    The Future of Transport in an Ageing Society

    Age UK
    UK's aging population faces unique challenges with transport. This report argues that the current transport system fails to meet these needs. Read this resource to learn about the future of transport for older adults in the UK.
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    Why Are Older Adults at Risk for Food Insecurity? Raising Awareness on World Food Day

    Institute on Aging
    Many older adults face food insecurity and daily hunger. Read this resource to learn about why older adults are going hungry and what can be done to fight this issue.
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    Changing population age structures and sustainable development

    United Nations: Sustainable Development goals
    Population growth and development affect each other. The UN's Commission on Population and Development helps take on the challenges of population growth. Watch this video to learn more about what this UN Commission does.
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    Age-friendly community dimensions

    Government of Ontario
    Age-friendly communities are accessible and promote health aging in many different ways. Learn about the benefits and features that make a city age-friendly, such as accessible buildings, appropriate housing and multiple transportation options.
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    Why Seniors Make the Best Volunteers

    A Place For Mom
    If you are a senior who is unsure about starting to volunteer, read this resource that explains why seniors make the best volunteers. Enjoy the many benefits of volunteering such as increased energy levels, feeling more connected to the community and the ability to learn from younger generations.
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    Report of the National Seniors Council on Volunteering Among Seniors and Positive and Active Aging

    Government of Canada - Living in Canada
    This resource from the Canadian government outlines the trends in senior volunteering surrounding demographics, reasons for volunteering and where seniors choose to devote their time. Barriers to volunteering such as health, physical and transportation limitations are also discussed.
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    Rural Volunteers Connect Communities With Better Health

    Next Avenue
    This resource discusses how older volunteers use their skills to help others but also reap the benefits themselves when it comes to their social life. Learn how seniors in the United States are helping those living in rural areas receive social companionship and how they are also benefiting from their own generosity.
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    8 ways to thrive in old age

    Fraser Health
    There are many ways to stay healthy during old age and this resource describes 8 ways you can start making changes in your life. Some of these include exercising, eating a balanced diet, learning a new language, volunteering, staying social and getting in touch with your spiritual side.
  • Evidence Summary

    Neighbourhood watch can reduce crime

    Campbell Systematic Reviews (2008)
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    'Significant' health gaps found between Canadian and immigrant seniors

    Canadian Immigrant
    There are many challenges for senior immigrants, especially due to the language barrier. Read this resource for a summary of a study by the Wellesley Institute on the health of senior immigrants.
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    A seat at the table

    American Society on Aging (ASA)
    Policymakers often exclude Asian seniors when tackling social issues like poverty, and consider them as one group even though there are many different ethnicities in the group. This resource addresses the challenges faced by Asian older adults, and highlights the ways they supported each other through it all.
  • Evidence Summary

    Gardening can improve the overall well-being of older adults

    Activities, Adaptation & Aging (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Social exclusion can become a downward spiral for older people

    European Journal of Ageing (2017)
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    Older Belgians with care needs go vote – by themselves!

    Aging Equal
    Older people with care needs should be able to vote for themselves. In Belgium, an initiative was created to increase the accessibility of voting to seniors in various care settings. This allows seniors to remain active and to participate in society. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Life Stories: Older people talked and young people wrote

    Aging Equal
    The "Life Stories" project encourages the development of relationships between younger and older people to prevent ageism. Young people talke to older people about their lives and write essays about these stories. This project has benefited young people and changed their attitudes about engaging with the older generation. Read this resource to learn more.
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    The world is at a crossroads. We can have an influence

    Aging Equal
    Older adults care about the future and the health of the Earth. They are getting involved with climate activism alongside young people. Older adults are an important voice to include in policy and advocacy. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Ageism and deafness: a Danish good practice example

    Aging Equal
    The Danish Deaf Association created a program to connect Deaf older adults with Deaf volunteers. This program helps alleviate loneliness among Deaf older adults. It can also support the social needs of deaf older adults who live with family with lower sign language ability. Read this resource to learn more.
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    ‘We have the same rights’ – A project by ENNHRI on the human rights of older persons in long-term care

    Aging Equal
    The human rights of older adults are often neglected in long term care settings. The European Network of National Human Rights Institutions conducted a project to study and improve the human rights of older persons in long- term care. The project recommends a human-rights based approach to long-term care. Read this resource to learn more.
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    EveryAge Counts: an advocacy campaign aimed at tackling ageism in Australia

    Aging Equal
    EveryAge Counts is a campaign in Australia to change the perception of older adults. The campaign works to influence policy, address systemic barriers to healthy aging, and increase positive representations of older adults in media. They are also building a grassroots social movement to support all aging Australians. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Untold stories: Celebrating older human rights campaigners

    Aging Equal
    Older human rights campaigners were celebrated on the International Day of Older Persons in 2018. See a photo wall highlighting activists from around the world. Read about their untold stories and achievements. Read this resource to learn more.
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    “Let’s give the chance to everyone to speak out”: an experience of co-creation

    Aging Equal
    The digital age should not leave anyone behind. Co-creation meaningfully involves older adults in the ideation, design and implementation of digital solutions meant for older adults. More projects should consider co-creation to uphold everyone's human rights. Read this resource to learn more.
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    After 70 years of human rights, what’s next?

    Aging Equal
    The future of the fight against ageism requires collective action. By working together, we can understand ageism in a more complex way. We now know that ageism adds to other forms of inequality. Bringing these insights together and combining efforts will help in the continued fight against ageism. Read this resource to learn more.
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    ‘Stereotyping generations is creating generational myths, leading to divisions in society’: the 5th week of the #AgeingEqual campaign in a nutshell

    Aging Equal
    Ageism impacts both older and younger people. The #AgeingEqual campaign encourages all generations to stand up against all types of age discrimination. Older and younger people need to support each other to make a better future possible. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Tools to protect a life worth living

    Aging Equal
    Older people have human rights that guarantee a good, meaningful life. But for us to protect these rights, we must know what these rights look like in real life. The Two Moons project from Europe is educating people about the rights of older adults. Read this resource to learn more.
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    I'm Old, So What

    Aging Equal
    The "I am old, so what?" campaign raised awareness of ageism in the City of Barcelona. It encouraged older adults to challenge stereotypes. It represented and celebrated the diversity and capacity of older adults. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Take action against ageism

    Aging Equal
    Fighting ageism is everyone's responsibility. Social media is powerful tool you can use. This resource contains tips to help you advocate online. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Social inclusion of older adults

    Government of Québec
    Older adults are able to be active in many areas of society. This gives older adults a sense of purpose and inclusion, and prevents isolation. Stereotypes and prejudice can keep older adults from being involved in society. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Equal and Expert: 3 best practice standards for carer engagement

    Coalition of Carers in Scotland
    Carers are knowledgeable and equal partners in the care of their loved ones. They are an important voice to include when planning any health or social policy. Guidelines from Scotland show how carer representatives should be supported during planning. Carers representatives should be connected to resources and a network of other carers. Planning groups should also ensure an inclusive environment. Read this resource to learn more.
  • Evidence Summary

    Climate change expected to disproportionately affect older adults

    Environmental Health Perspectives (2013)
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    Love Thy Neighbor Now

    Next Avenue
    The Covid-19 pandemic is inspiring many people to connect with their neighbours who may need help. Some people need help getting groceries or walking their pet. Others just want a conversation buddy. Read this resource to learn how you can help your neighbour during the pandemic.
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    Get Healthy: Volunteer

    Senior Planet
    Volunteering is a great way to stay active and healthy! This resource can help you decide how you would like to volunteer. Think about the amount of time you can give and what cause you want to support. Read this resource to learn more.
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    STAR Transportation Program

    Aging Ahead
    In St. Charles and St. Louis Counties, STAR Program volunteers help take residents to their medical appointments. This program is free! To become a rider or volunteer, read this resource for more information.
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    10 Ways to Build Engagement in Your Chapter

    Elders Climate Action
    If you are a senior who is passionate about making a difference in regard to climate change, use this resource to learn tips on how to get involved. These tips can also be used to help encourage you community to participate in the movement.
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    What You Can Do About Climate Change

    Elders Climate Action
    If you are a senior who is passionate about making a difference in regard to climate change but is unsure of where to start, read this resource for tips on how to get started.
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    Age Champions

    Age UK
    Age Champions are United Kingdom members of parliament who help make the UK and their constituencies a great place to grow older. Age Champions receive special resources to help serve older people better. Find out which MPs are currently Age Champions.
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    You reside in a residential and long-term care centre or a private seniors' residence

    Elections Québec
    Many seniors in Quebec live in residential or long-term care homes. There are still many ways for you to vote. Find out how to vote in your care home and what options are available if there is no polling station in your facility.
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    You are in a rehabilitation centre or hospital centre

    Elections Québec
    If you are living in a rehabilitation or hospital centre, there is still a way for you to vote for provincial elections in Québec. You can enter or change your name on the list of electors or vote in advance.
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    Voting assistance tools and services on election day - Video

    Elections Canada
    If you require assistance during the federal elections, use this resource to learn what services are offered by Elections Canada. Some options include larger print size, braille text, larger pencils, magnifying glasses or the option of bringing in someone to help you fill out the voting form.
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    Accessible Voting

    Elections Ontario
    If you want to exercise your right to vote but are not capable of attending a voting centre or if you need special assistance at the polls, use this resource to learn how Elections Ontario can help. Accessibility options include larger print size, braille text, magnifying glasses, allowance of service dogs or even assistance from a support person.
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    Leave no one behind toolkit

    Bond
    Sustainable development should help lift everyone - no matter their social status or age. The "Leave No One Behind" commitment promises to make sure this comes true. Learn more about what steps are being taken around the world so no one is left behind.
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    Can the SDGs really transform our world?

    Bond
    The UK was an important part in the development of the Sustainable Development Goals, but has since fallen behind. Non-governmental organizations can encourage the UK to make sure no one is left behind when implementing the sustainable development goals. Listen to this podcast to learn more.
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    Stepping up to our diversity and inclusion challenge

    Bond
    Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) help improve human rights around the world, but there is a lot to be done to increase representation of gender, race, disability, and sexuaility in UK based NGOs. Learn more about what NGOs are doing to increase diversity in their workforces.
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    Do you know all 17 SDGs?

    United Nations: Sustainable Development goals
    The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 goals to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure all people enjoy peace and prosperity. Watch this short video to learn about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and their impact.
  • Web Resource Rating

    The United Nations Sustainable Development Summit: 17 Goals to Transform Our World

    United Nations: Sustainable Development goals
    The Sustainable Development Goals are 17 goals to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change. They were agreed upon by 193 countries. Learn more about the ways in which these goals hope to build a sustainable future.
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    Age-Friendly Alberta

    Government of Alberta
    Learn how Alberta is working towards becoming an age-friendly province by implementing more programs that encourage accessibility and promote an inclusive community. Explore which changes are being made to transportation, housing, community services and recreation for seniors.
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    What does it take to become an Age-Friendly Community?

    Government of Alberta
    Learn how Alberta is working towards becoming an age-friendly province by implementing more programs that encourage seniors to participate and contribute to their community. Explore which changes are already being made to transportation, housing, community services and recreation for seniors in the city of Calgary.
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    Volunteering A Win-Win for Seniors and Rural Communities

    Rural Health Information Hub
    Seniors can benefit from volunteering by forming social connections and learning new things. This resource describes how rural communities can also benefit from senior volunteers by utilizing their past experiences.
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    How I Finally Found the Right Volunteer Experience

    Next Avenue
    Volunteering can offer seniors a new sense of purpose and reintroduce routine into their lives, but finding the right fit for your lifestyle may be difficult at first. Follow one woman’s journey in finding the right volunteering opportunity and learn from her experiences.
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    Volunteering for older adults

    Fraser Health
    Senior volunteers offer a wealth of skills and knowledge from their perilous careers and experiences. If you are a senior who is looking for somewhere to start their volunteering journey, use this resource to learn your options and for links to websites to get you started.
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    How To Volunteer As A Senior

    Aging in place
    Volunteering as a senior can look very different depending on the person and has many social, health and physical benefits. Learn how volunteering helps your mental health by constantly learning something new and setting up a routine in your life. Some examples of volunteering opportunities are also provided for your convenience.
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    Five benefits of volunteering in retirement

    Senior Community Services
    Learn how volunteering during retirement can benefit your social and mental well-being. This resource outlines the major benefits you can enjoy from volunteering later in life such as preventing social isolation and depression, promoting physical activity and feeling more useful to your community.
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    Volunteer

    Employment and Social Development Canada
    If you are considering volunteering, use this resource to learn about the possible activities you can engage in and what kind of commitment best suits your lifestyle. Some websites for finding volunteer opportunities in Canada are also provided.
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    Volunteering

    British Columbia Family & Social Supports
    If you are a senior who is interested in volunteering, read this resource to learn the many benefits that volunteering can have on your own health and the overall wellbeing of the community. Volunteering ensures that seniors are engaged with the community and is a great transition from working regularly to retired life.
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    Seniors and Volunteer Work: Why You Should Consider It

    American Senior Communities
    If you are a senior who has just retired, consider volunteering to form new connections and maintain your mental and physical health. By choosing an activity that you are genuinely interested in, you can make the most of your experience.
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    Seniors Seeking Employment

    American Senior Communities
    It is very common nowadays for seniors to be working well into retirement. Use this resource for tips on getting back into the workforce, some of them include updating your resume, practicing interview questions and volunteering to build skills for a specific position.
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    Build up your skills

    Age UK
    If you are looking for work and want to work on building skills for a particular job, consider volunteering to gain experience in a certain field. This resource provides ideas on where you can potentially volunteer and explains how volunteer experience can benefit your job search.
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    Secrets to healthy ageing

    Better Health Channel
    If you are a senior who is looking to make lifestyle changes to improve your health, use this resource for tips on how to get started. Healthy aging consists of getting active, eating a balanced diet, keeping you brain engaged by learning something new, modifying your home and staying social to name a few.
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    Healthy and active ageing

    Better Health Channel
    Healthy and active aging includes not only physical activity and eating, but also socializing with others and feeling a sense of community where you live. Tips on types of exercise and healthy food options are given to help you implement this lifestyle change.
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    Participating in Activities You Enjoy - More Than Just Fun and Games

    National Institute on Aging
    Learn about the benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle while engaging with your community in the best way you can. Getting involved in your community can be as simple as volunteering for organizations or planning trips with other seniors.
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    9 Volunteer Jobs That Could Boost Your Health

    Next Avenue
    If you are looking for new ways to get involved in your community as a volunteer, use this resource for ideas on how to get involved as a senior.
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    Making Friends at 60

    A Place For Mom
    Consider becoming friends by talking to others, pursuing your hobbies, taking classes and going volunteering.
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    ARCHIVED: Section IV: Age-Friendly Rural and Remote Communities – Checklist of Age-Friendly Features

    Public Health Agency of Canada (aging & seniors)
    This resource shares a list of features to make communities more age-friendly. Consider changing outdoor spaces, transport, housing and community services to help the elderly.
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    How to become a Canadian citizen

    Canadian Immigrant
    Becoming a Canadian citizen is a complex process. Read more about guidelines in this webpage.
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    Finding a family doctor in Canada

    Canadian Immigrant
    Having a family doctor is important to your health. Family doctors know your history and can more effectively treat and diagnose you.
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    Living in Canada

    Government of Canada - Living in Canada
    As a newcomer to Canada, this tool factors in your current situation to create a personal settlement plan. It covers important topics like laws, employment, health and more to ease your transition.
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    Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship in Canada

    Immigration.ca
    The new sponsorship system for parents and grandparents is based on a lottery system. Learn more about guidelines and sponsor requirements in Canada in this resource.
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    Tougher EB-5 norms may negatively impact senior housing projects

    Immigration.ca
    The EB-5 program aims to boost economic growth and job creation through inflow of foreign direct investment into the rural parts of the country. The introduction of new rules may influence real estate developers and their senior housing projects.
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    Canada Plans Second Parent And Grandparent Sponsorship Draw

    Immigration.ca
    Criticism of the new lottery system has called for a second draw before the end of 2017. The program originally selected sponsorship applicants on a first-come first-served basis.
  • Blog Post

    Building a better world for all

    As part of the 2030 Agenda, the United Nations adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which are part of a global plan to create a better world for all. What lessons can we draw of the first five years of existence of the SDGs with regard to older adults?
  • Blog Post

    Forging strong intergenerational bonds

    Learn about non-family intergenerational interventions and their impact on the social and mental well-being of young people and the elderly.
  • Blog Post

    Age-friendly communities: Designing accessible, inclusive and safe communities

    As a response to global population ageing and rapid urbanisation, the 'age-friendly community' movement focuses on action at the local level that fosters the full participation of older adults in community life and promotes healthy and active ageing.
  • Blog Post

    Climate change: When generations face challenges together

    The prevailing discourse on climate change sometimes pit generations against each other or place blame on certain generations over others. But evidence shows the importance of intergenerational relations and solidarity to face this pressing societal challenge.
  • Blog Post

    Public art and its impact on our lives

    Public art leaves few people completely indifferent. It can move, amuse, make people think, confuse, cringe, and sometimes even shock. But what does research tell us about the effects of public art on cities, places and people's lives?
  • Blog Post

    Collaboration is key: Patient engagement for healthcare improvement

    Working together! Research highlights some of the potential organizational/health care provider and patient-related benefits of co-producing hospital tools and resources with patients.
  • Blog Post

    Rebuilding greener, healthier and stronger economies to face climate change

    Climate change is affecting everyone on the planet, but research evidence shows that it is disproportionately affecting older adults. As countries move toward rebuilding their economies after COVID-19, their recovery plans can shape a new path towards greener, healthier and stronger economies.
  • Blog Post

    Community resilience: Responding to and recovering from disasters together

    It is not only individuals who are struck by disasters like a pandemic, it is entire communities that are shaken. Implementing a community resilience plan can help a community come together and overcome any disaster, while rebuilding socially, physically and economically.
  • Blog Post

    Making a Better World: Achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals

    The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for the world. Learn about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and what you can do to shape our world, now and into the future.
  • Blog Post

    Civic participation of older adults: Beyond volunteering

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

    Social media: Can they be used by older citizens to make their voices heard?

    Public debates, as well as public consultations led by governments, are increasingly being conducted online, including social media. Unlike young people who grew up with new information and communication technologies, many older citizens feel excluded from online public debates and consultations on social media.
  • Blog Post

    Addressing the social needs of older adults: A contributing factor to their health and well-being

    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.
  • Blog Post

    Gentrification: When neighbourhoods change, lives change

    Sometimes central and disadvantaged neighbourhoods experience major changes, referred to as gentrification. Neighbourhood gentrification can have a significant impact on older adults who often have low and fixed incomes.
  • Blog Post

    Break the cycle of isolation and stay healthy: Get involved in your community!

    Volunteering is a form of civic engagement that builds on the experience of older adults and breaks down social isolation, while providing them with a sense of accomplishment and belonging to the community. Concrete measures can encourage the engagement of older adults and maintain their participation in volunteer activities.