Daily physical activity and healthy eating play an important role in the health, well-being, and quality of life of Canadians. However, a majority of older adults are not meeting physical activity guidelines, and many also have diminished access to nutritious foods. This puts them at an elevated risk of developing a chronic disease or getting injured from a fall.
Today, Adam van Koeverden, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, on behalf of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Health, along with Lisa Hepfner, Member of Parliament for Hamilton Mountain, announced an investment of more than $2.2 million for three organizations to support healthy living behaviours in older adults. The projects will enable innovative and integrated approaches to promoting healthy living and addressing the common risk factors for chronic disease. The projects include:
- The Sinai Health System – Health Commons Solution Lab will receive $1,010,434 for their ‘Neighbours’ project to help reduce and prevent social isolation while improving healthy living and quality of life in older adults in the Greater Toronto area. The community will help co-design, create, and lead new health-promoting activities that reflect the interests and needs of older adults living within their communities. For instance, older adults will be encouraged to set health-related goals and will receive the resources needed to meet these goals. Supportive networks will also help motivate and reinforce their healthy behaviours.
- McMaster University will receive $983,565 for their ‘Embolden’ project to explore the social determinants of health and barriers faced by older adults to improve their access to health services in the greater Hamilton area. In communities that face greater health inequalities, project participants will learn and apply practical strategies related to healthier eating and physical activity. They will also be coached to better navigate health and social services within the greater Hamilton area.
- Cowichan Green Community Society will receive $261,017 for their ‘Transforming Tea and Toast‘ project for isolated older adults living across Vancouver Island. The project will promote healthier behaviours by connecting older adults to community resources and strengthening their social interactions. Following COVID-19 guidelines, healthy living activities will include: eating and cooking together; gardening and harvesting; improving food literacy and access to nutritious foods; and, participating in physical activity like nature walks.
The Government of Canada will continue to work with community partners to invest in the health and well-being of older adults, to help ensure that they have the supports they need to remain healthy throughout their later years.
SOURCE Public Health Agency of Canada