CMHA Ontario joins individuals and organizations across Ontario to celebrate Seniors Month in June.
Seniors Month is a time to salute and appreciate the enormous contributions seniors and older adults have made, and continue to make, towards building Ontario. The theme of Seniors Month this year is to Stay Safe, Active and Connected.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a serious impact on the mental health of older adults due to social isolation and increased barriers to finding mental health services and supports. To help, CMHAs in Ontario are currently offering Living Life to the Full courses to support older adults 55+, seniors 65+, and caregivers. The course is based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy, which focuses on understanding how thoughts, feelings and behaviours work together to impact well-being. To keep participants safe through the pandemic, and to adhere to guidelines set out by the Ministry of Health, this course is offered online only at this time. Visit the course webpage to find a group near you.
The Ontario government also offers several resources to support seniors on their website. This includes information on:
- Mental health counselling and treatment for older adults
- Active living, health and wellness supports
- A Friendly Voice, a free, confidential phone line for Ontarians 55+ who just want to chat with a friendly person. Call toll-free 1-855-892-9992 between 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
For more resources and to find Seniors Month events in your community, visit the event website.