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Healthy aging means staying active, healthy, and connected as you grow older. It includes caring for your body, keeping your mind sharp, building strong social connections, and finding joy in daily activities. Eating well, exercising regularly, staying mentally engaged, and nurturing relationships can improve your quality of life as you age. Embrace this journey and find ways to enjoy each stage of life!
Maintaining a balanced diet is a key part of aging well! The Canada Food Guide has general guidelines for seniors in Canada. Always speak to your doctor about nutrition options.
The Injury Prevention Centre encourages eating well and drinking enough water to prevent falls!
Not sure if you can fund all your food needs? There are many food bank options across Edmonton. Check out Food Banks Alberta and the Care Closet.
Get moving! You can remain active in many ways, including walking, running, yoga, and Tai Chi, at your local gym, or recreation centres. Check out some quick workouts at home on YouTube depending on your activity level.
Find a doctor or specialist online or call Health Link to speak with an Information & Referral Specialist (811).
OTHER HEALTH SERVICES
To access physical therapy, occupational therapy, and massage, consult with your doctor for referrals or look up independent clinics! For dental and vision, you can find one online, through the Yellow Pages, or as recommendations from others you know.
It is important to ensure your medications are up-to-date and kept in a safe place away from pets and children. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about safe options!
Taking care of your mind's health is as important as taking care of your body's health. If you ever feel lonely, deal with anxiety, or struggle with other mental health concerns, reach out for help!
DROP-IN SINGLE SESSION COUNSELLING
Contact Sage Seniors Association to learn about free, drop-in, single session counselling.
It is normal to feel grief and loss for a number of reasons. Check out some strategies to help cope with these emotions.
As we age, loneliness comes and goes. We need to recognize this feeling and find ways to navigate it. Here is some motivation!
This helpline is open 24 hours, 7 days a week for Albertans struggling with their mental health. 1.877.303.2642 (Toll-free)
CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION (EDMONTON)
This organization provides information about mental health and has active distress lines that you can call anytime!
At any age, we may find that our memory and thinking changes. Continuous learning and activity are the best ways to keep your mind sharp! Here are some ideas:
READ A BOOK OR LISTEN TO PODCASTS
EXERCISE AND EAT WELL!
GET ENOUGH SLEEP
Health also means maintaining connections and building new ones! Having a community can be important to support your well-being. Check out the Community & Connections page for more ideas.
Although Alberta has universal healthcare services, you may pay out-of-pocket for other care services such as dental, optical, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, etc. Check out some options for extra health coverage:
ALBERTA COVERAGE FOR SENIORS PLAN
The Government of Alberta provides premium coverage of prescription drugs and other health services not covered under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan.
The Government of Alberta has assistance for dental and optical fees for low-income seniors
The federal government's program aims to reduce financial barriers to oral care for those without a dental care plan.