Canadian Senior Moment

This Week’s News & Events Updates (August 9, 2025)

Welcome to your weekly Canadian Senior Moment update, bringing you the latest news and events from across the country! This week, we have updates on new funding for seniors’ programs and a look at some of the great community activities available. (Take Note: We now include available news from across the country.)

National Insights

• New Horizons for Seniors Program Funding: The Government of Canada has launched the 2025-2026 call for proposals for community-based projects through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP). Organizations can apply for funding to create projects that help seniors be more connected and active in their communities. Priorities include supporting healthy aging, preventing senior abuse, and promoting social inclusion. The deadline for applications is September 17, 2025. Source: Government of Canada

• CPP and OAS Payment Dates: For those receiving Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) payments, the next payment date is August 27, 2025. Source: Canada.ca

• Senior Travel Trends: A recent survey by AARP shows that 70% of travellers over 50 are planning to travel in 2025, with 44% interested in international trips. Popular destinations include Ireland and Costa Rica. Travel experts note a growing interest in “slow travel” and river cruises for a more immersive and relaxed experience. Source: Travel + Leisure

British Columbia

• Seniors Advocate Report: B.C.’s Seniors Advocate, Dan Levitt, has released a systemic review titled “From Shortfall to Crisis: Growing Demand for Long-Term Care Beds in B.C.” The report highlights a critical shortage of long-term care beds and calls on the government to act now to address the issue. The message also celebrates the active spirit of older adults in the province. Source: Office of the Seniors Advocate BC

Alberta

• 2025 Alberta 55+ Summer Games: The City of Leduc is hosting the 2025 Alberta 55+ Provincial Summer Games from August 21-24. The games are a great opportunity for active Albertans to compete and connect, and volunteers are also being sought to help with the event. Source: Discover Leduc Region

Saskatchewan

• Saskatoon Council on Aging Events: The Saskatoon Council on Aging has several upcoming events, though many are already full. Check their website for future workshops and programs, including classes on estate planning and legacy writing. Source: Saskatoon Council on Aging

Manitoba

• Seniors Community BBQ: The RM of West St. Paul is hosting a free community BBQ for seniors on August 22nd at the West St. Paul Access Centre. More details are to follow. Source: RM of West St. Paul

Ontario

• Seniors Active Living Fairs: The Ontario Association of Adult and Active Centres (OACAO) is hosting a number of active living fairs this month. Today, August 9th, a fair is being held at the Hunt Club/Riverside Park Community Centre in Ottawa and at the Senior Persons Living Connected in Toronto. Source: OACAO

• Ontario Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS): The next GAINS payment will be made on August 8, 2025. This non-taxable payment provides a monthly supplement to low-income seniors in Ontario. Source: Ontario.ca

New Brunswick

• City of Moncton Senior Programs: The City of Moncton continues to offer various senior-friendly programs. The East End Pool offers a seniors swim rate and the Crossman Community Centre hosts activities like pickleball, Tai Chi, and fitness classes. Source: City of Moncton

Nova Scotia

• Local Community Events: Upcoming events include the Annual Duck Derby in Chester on August 9th and a Blueberry Supper in the Forties Community Centre on August 10th. The New Ross Community Fair is also scheduled for August 15-16. Source: Municipality of the District of Chester

Prince Edward Island

• TechNTalk Digital Literacy Event: A “TechNTalk” event for seniors is taking place in Summerside on August 8th from 10 am to 12 pm. These events help older adults across the province improve their digital literacy skills. Source: Government of Prince Edward Island

Newfoundland and Labrador

• Digital Seniors NL: Newfoundland & Labrador Public Libraries are offering “Digital Seniors NL: Let’s Get Digital” on August 23rd to help seniors with basic digital skills. Source: Newfoundland & Labrador Public Libraries

Yukon

• ElderActive Recreation: The ElderActive Recreation Association has a number of upcoming physical activities, including leisure hiking and outdoor walks, dragon boating, and time in the CGC Flexihall. These events are scheduled throughout August. Source: ElderActive Recreation Association

Northwest Territories

• Tłı̨chǫ Annual Gathering: The 21st Tłı̨chǫ Annual Gathering is taking place from August 11-14 in Behchokǫ̀. The event will include the first session of the 6th Tłı̨chǫ Assembly. Source: Tlicho Government

Nunavut

• Summer in the Square: The City of Iqaluit is holding its “Summer in the Square” community event, which features local vendors, crafts, and a chili-making contest to support the Qajuqturvik Community Food Centre. Source: City of Iqaluit

  

   

  Global Insights

• Global Accessible Tourism on the Rise: International tourism is seeing a major push for accessibility. The US is leading a global surge in accessible tourism, with countries like Spain, Germany, Australia, and Italy also making significant strides in redefining inclusive travel. This movement is transforming how destinations, accommodations, and transportation systems cater to tourists with diverse needs, making it easier for seniors with mobility challenges to explore the world. Source: Travel And Tour World (August 3, 2025)

• Canada’s Travel Advisory for Older Adults: Global Affairs Canada has recently updated its travel checklist to help older Canadians (65+) plan safe and healthy trips abroad. The advisory emphasizes the unique risks seniors may face, including vulnerability to extreme temperatures and the potential for cognitive decline in unfamiliar environments. It urges older travelers to visit a healthcare provider at least six weeks before departure, and to ensure travel medical insurance covers pre-existing conditions and medical evacuation. Source: Travel.gc.ca (August 7, 2025)

• Senior Cruise News: Surge in Bookings and New Safety Measures: Cruise lines are reporting a strong surge in last-minute bookings for the summer of 2025. In response to a new bill in the U.S. Congress, there is also a renewed focus on guest safety and security, with new measures being debated to ensure a smoother and more secure experience at sea. Source: Travel Agent Central (August 4, 2025)

• Retirement Destinations: The Best Places to Retire in 2025: For those considering retiring abroad, a recent index of the best places to retire in 2025 lists Panama, Portugal, and Costa Rica as top destinations. Other popular choices include Mexico, France, Spain, and Italy, often for their culture, affordability, and high-quality healthcare systems. Source: International Living (March 6, 2025)