Story Highlights
- More than half of Canadians aged 50 and older have experienced loneliness, with up to 41% at risk of isolation.
- Powered by United Way East Ontario, ABLE2’s Enabling Seniors Through Choice program pairs seniors with volunteers.
- Marsha and Meghan have formed a meaningful friendship that enriches both of their lives. Their connection highlights the power of companionship in combating loneliness and isolation.
- United Way recognizes that preventing isolation is crucial to a senior’s well-being.
- Programs like Enabling Seniors Through Choice are so important, especially as Ontario’s senior population continues to grow.
Marsha has lived with a disability her entire life. She’s blind, but that hasn’t stopped her from living independently, with energy and a great sense of humour. As she’s aged, her health needs have increased, and she’s become surrounded by more people whose job it is to take care of her.
ABLE2: Support for People with Disabilities’ Enabling Seniors Through Choice program, powered by United Way East Ontario, recognizes that folks like Marsha need that extra level of healthcare, but just as critically, they need meaningful friendships. They need someone who is calling and showing up to their house, not because they have to, but simply because they care about their happiness and want to check in on life.
ABLE2 helped introduce Marsha to Meghan, who is technically a volunteer, but views Marsha as her friend. Meghan invites Marsha to go bowling, swimming, watch Sens games (even though Meghan is not a hockey fan), and step outside her comfort zone.
“I'm happy with the friendship I made [with Meghan] and I enjoy the outings we go to. I don’t like to sit around. It helps me come out of my shell and meet other people.”
Their relationship not only enriches Marsha’s life, but Meghan says she’s also gained a friend who never forgets her birthday, sings with her, and has become an integral part of her family.
In programs like Enabling Seniors Through Choice, the act of simply being present can have a lasting impact on a participant, and it creates spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, is valued, and included.
The impacts of social isolation and loneliness on older adults
The National Institute of Ageing recently found that 41% of Canadians aged 50 years and older are at risk of social isolation and up to 58% have experienced loneliness. These statistics highlight a growing public health concern, as social isolation is not just a matter of being physically alone but signifies a deeper disconnect from community and social support networks.
Social isolation can take a heavy toll on someone’s mental and physical wellbeing.
The connections made possible through United Way’s partnership with ABLE2 help break down stereotypes about aging and disability, showing that people of all ages and abilities have valuable contributions to offer.
“[Enabling Seniors Through Choice] is not just important for the organization, it's important for the community.”
A stronger community through meaningful connections
United Way East Ontario knows that preventing loneliness and isolation is key to a senior’s wellbeing.
As Ontario’s senior population continues to grow, the need for community-based support is becoming increasingly important. Many older adults face the challenge of living without regular connections to family and friends, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
