Brighter Days for Lonely and Isolated Seniors

At The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre in Winnipeg, lonely seniors are finding a reason to get up in the morning, group activities help them form deep bonds of friendship, and learning opportunities keep their brains active and stimulated.

“When my husband passed, I needed something to fill in my days,” says Ayoka, 78. “We did everything together. Then he was gone.”

Ayoka shares her experience at Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre

Some of the benefits of the program for seniors are social events and group activities, where there is opportunity to be in the presence of others.

“When my husband passed, I needed something to fill in my days.”

“Isolation is very high in our community,” says Sheila Keys, program co-ordinator. “The program aims to facilitate connections, provide a safe space for seniors to share, meet new friends and give them the hope they have been lacking.”

From exercises and outings to learning about iPads, technology and nutrition, socially isolated seniors are improving their general well-being, gaining new friends and enjoying a continued sense of purpose.

“If this program wasn’t in place, many participants would be sitting alone in their apartment all day without the opportunity to learn new things, share their knowledge and life experience and feel stronger because of supports and friendships,” says Keys.

Ayoka is supported by family and her Nigerian community but felt she needed interaction with people her age.

“The program is like a life-support group where I feel better no matter what I am going through.”

“Most of the people I know are young,” she says. “My family kept saying, ‘Do something that really makes you happy.’ At the Centre, we have much in common. Some are retired, others have lost loved ones or don’t have family close by. I thrive on the socialization and sharing over tea and snacks. I also enjoy the outings, walking club and exercise program.

“When I came to The Salvation Army, I was isolated and depressed, and wondered if I really wanted to live. The program is like a life-support group where I feel better no matter what I am going through, experience new routines, and enjoy living. This is everything I was looking for.”

By Linda Leigh