Summer is here and the eating is easy. Indulging in tasty treats while embracing the summer vibes sounds divine. But with all the dining out and yummy outdoor gatherings, smart eating can go by the wayside. You want to make sure you’re maintaining healthy food habits and a well-balanced diet to ensure you’re fueled for fun and good health. Go for the ripe stuff! Eat up your veggies and fruit – especially the seasonal ones. In-season superstars tend to be more fresh and flavourful, nutrient-dense and budget-friendly, and will help keep you happy and healthy all season long. Research has consistently shown that putting more fruits and veggies on your plate, along with a variety of nuts, legumes and whole grains, can help reduce your risk of major lifestyle diseases, and keep you living leaner and longer. The vitamins, minerals and powerful phytonutrients are just so darn good for you and contribute to healthy aging. “Summer is a great time to enjoy fresh produce. You’ll often find it locally grown and in season, which helps preserve valuable nutrients,” says registered dietitian Cheryl Strachan, founder of Sweet Spot Nutrition. “Your local farmers’ market is a great place to find in season foods and connect with others in your community.” All fruits have something good to offer, so choose the ones you enjoy. “Whole fruit is best (skip the juice), and there’s no need to stress about sugar content. Even if you have diabetes, the natural sugar in fruit is far outweighed by the benefits of eating 3-5 servings a day,” says Strachan, also a nutritionist, cardiac specialist and author of 30-Minute Heart Healthy Cookbook. Fresh fruits are a healthy delight, but that said, berries deserve special mention! Blueberries and strawberries, in particular, have been linked to better memory and thinking skills as we age, she says. “They’re rich in flavonoids, compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers that help protect the brain. Aim to have them at least twice a week – fresh or frozen.” When it comes to veggies, the health-packed pickings are easy. All vegetables are good for you, from crisp iceberg lettuce to dark, leafy kale. “The key is variety: aim for a mix of colours and, most importantly, choose vegetables you enjoy and will actually eat,” says the Calgary nutrition expert. Top spot goes to dark leafy greens when it comes to benefitting brain health. Eating just one serving a day – about 1 cup raw (like in a salad) or ½ cup cooked – has been linked to slower memory decline as we age. The most nutrient-dense leafy greens include: Although spring mix, green/red leaf lettuce, and butter lettuce have fewer nutrients, include them for variety. And don’t overlook frozen options – frozen spinach or kale is just as nutritious and often more convenient, says Strachan. “Toss leafy greens into salads, soups, omelets, grain bowls, or smoothies. A handful here and there can go a long way.” Meanwhile, be sure to stay hydrated – that includes drinking more water and eating  hydrating foods. Staying hydrated helps you feel your best, especially on hot summer days. “But as we age, we may not feel as thirsty, even when our bodies need fluids. Instead of counting glasses, watch your urine: if it’s dark yellow, or if you have a dry mouth, headache, low energy, or feel lightheaded, it may be time to drink more,” advises Strachan, who hosts Sweet Spot Kitchen community to help people living with heart disease get healthy eating support and ideas. Water is wonderful, but other drinks count too: Meanwhile, most fruits and vegetables are naturally hydrating, says Strachan, and the good thing is most water-rich fruits and veggies also provide electrolytes like potassium, which helps with fluid balance in the body. The most hydrating fruits and veggies: Seasonal produce can be such a healthy delight so eat with the seasons when you can. Strachan offers these two recipes to savour the flavours of some of summer’s best offerings. Crunchy Peanut Cabbage Salad Tossed with affordable ingredients, this salad is also great because it’s hardy enough to stand up to a few days in the fridge, feeding you more than once. Ingredients: 1. Salad 4 cups shredded green cabbage 1/2 cup uncooked farro about 1 cup of cooked farro, or similar grain like brown rice or barley 3 each small mandarin oranges 1 can sliced water chestnuts 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1/2 cup chopped green onions 1/2 cup chopped unsalted peanuts * 2. Peanut dressing 2 cloves garlic, peeled 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (use 1/2 tsp if you like heat) 2 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce 2 tbsp rice vinegar ** 2 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp lime juice (about half a lime) 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (crunchy or smooth) 1/4 cup water Method Notes: * If you have a peanut allergy, you could make this with cashew butter or tahini in place of the peanut butter, and pumpkin seeds or slivered almonds in place of the peanuts. ** If your rice vinegar has sugar in it (check the label), you might cut back on the sugar in the dressing. Blueberry Summer Salad Think of lettuce as a canvas upon which you can pile on your favourite fresh, colourful, nutritious toppings. You can even let the lettuce go and make salads out of beans, grains, or just crunchy chopped fresh vegetables. Enjoy! Ingredients 4 cups mixed greens 1/2 cup fresh blueberries 2 tbsp dried cranberries 1/4 cup chopped walnuts 1/4 cup unsalted sunflower seeds 1/4 cup goat cheese 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 tbsp maple syrup Method

Yay for Father’s Day. Let’s celebrate fathers and father-like figures everywhere for all the caring, encouraging and mentoring they do! Dads are often called on to offer advice and teach everyday life skills – that’s their specialty. Whether it’s how to fix a leaky faucet, prune an azalea the right way or manage money, they come to the rescue with their words of wisdom. What dad hasn’t heard, “Dad, how do I…?” Well, Rob Kenney sure has and this dad is always more than happy to dole out handy DIY advice for everyday home fixes and life fixes to all his “kids” – millions of them! Kenney’s practical “dadvice” has made him a YouTube sensation – his “Dad, How Do I?” channel has more 5.2 million subscribers and growing! Across multiple platforms, he has close to 7 million followers and is known the world over as the “Internet Dad.” Fix those pesky home problems “I never ever thought I’d go viral. I started the channel ‘Dad, How Do I?’ in April of 2020 thinking I would help 30 or 40 people learn some life skills. However, by the end of May, I had over 1 million subscribers!” Kenney, a homeowner and dad of two adult children, tells Custodia. In his gentle, fatherly manner, the 61 year old offers guidance on how to repair pesky home problems; everything from fixing a clogged sink and a running toilet to installing a ceiling fan or changing a door, and so much more. And viewers will also find wholesome tutorials on basic life tasks: Frying an egg? No problem. Shave your face? Lather up with Kenney. Baking a cake? Sweet. His how-to tie a tie video garnered more than 3 million views! The warm, humble Kenney – think Mr. Rogers – started the channel 5 years ago because he wanted to teach valuable skills to kids who, like him, didn’t have a dad growing up. Well, now he’s a virtual dad to millions of all ages – there are even 80-year-old “kids” that come to his channel for some friendly advice. “Learning to fix things around the house helps build confidence and empowers you to be independent. A lot of simple fixes can also save you lots of money over time!” says Kenney, who just returned from Stockholm where he shared his inspirational story alongside other speakers, including Super Bowl champion Tom Brady. Abandoned by his dad A dad of all trades and self-proclaimed introvert, Kenney didn’t set out to become the Internet’s Dad but doing something so positive helps him power through a virtual world so different from his once simple, private life. “I’m truly honoured and blessed to have been given the platform. My channel is for anyone and everyone that could use a little help or encouragement.” Kenney could have used some of that support when his dad abandoned the family of eight kids; although he harbours no bitterness and long ago forgave his father, the experience motivates him to lift others with kindness, compassion and heartfelt advice that would have benefited him. “I think my channel resonates because my dad left when I was 14, and I had to learn a lot of basic things the hard way. I do believe it gives me a level of empathy that I wouldn’t otherwise have” – and a whole lot of basic handyman skills too. Kenney is a former office supply salesman who is now semi-retired and living off – and loving – his YouTube channel. His family is his first love – he’s been married to Annelli for 34 years and they share two successful children, Kristine, 33, and Kyle, 30. “Forgive and ask for forgiveness” “I love being a dad to my kids. I tried to enjoy each phase of their childhood, and we still talk several times a week,” says Kenney. Raising kids is tough work but the greatest work: “We didn’t always do everything right, but I think our kids always knew (still know) that we wanted the best for them.” His parenting advice: “Forgiving and asking for forgiveness. The reality is you won’t always do things perfectly, so I would set the precedent at an early age that when you do handle something incorrectly, go back to your kids and admit it, and ask them to forgive you. Also be quick to forgive them as well.” Fixing relationships in general? “Forgiveness is huge. Also, listening to what the other person has to say before talking. So often, we don’t listen because we’re thinking what we’re going to say.” Give your dad the gift of time Kenney is the dad the world needs. Aside from his life lessons and dad hacks, he also shares dad chats and encouraging words, telling his watchers how proud he is of them. He also excels at telling bad dad jokes to his captive audience. “My son said he didn’t understand cloning. I told him ‘that makes 2 of us’.” Ahhh! “Did you hear about the short psychic who escaped from prison? He’s a small medium at large!” Jokes aside, just what is Kenney doing for Father’s Day? Something very low key with his family. “The best gift my kids can give me is their time.”

Every day should be Earth Day – the planet will thank you! Here at Custodia, we are grateful to the planet and Mother Nature and committed to eco-friendly practices that nourish both the earth and your wellbeing. By keeping the environment green and clean, we take care of ourselves and earth our home. Just sitting outside in nature, relaxing in your well-cared-for backyard, can boost moods and happiness, a sanctuary away from stress and worries. The trees, tidy gardens, sunlight and fresh air have been linked to improved focus, lower stress, and improvements in mental and emotional health. We need a healthy planet to thrive and our planet needs us, so let’s nurture nature on Earth Day, April 22, and beyond. Small everyday acts of green kindness have huge impact when it comes to creating health on earth and a happy, sustainable future. Health on Earth This year’s Earth Day theme is Our Power, Our Planet and as homeowners, we have the power to start new earth-friendly habits around our house and yard to show our love for the planet. Custodia can help you be a planet hero with property maintenance services to make your home sweet home more healthy, eco-friendly and energy efficient. Take action from home with our tips: Green Your Home Buy local

Hanging out with a furry friend can do wonders for your wellbeing. You’ll be happier, exercise more and make more friends. They improve our heart health and social life, and are an instant mood booster – nothing beats coming home to a happy waggin’ tail. Pets are a wonderful part of our lives and worth celebrating! April brings with it National Pet Day (April 11), the perfect time to praise the perks of pet ownership, whether furry, scaly or feathered, and their long-lasting paws-itive effects on our lives and longevity. They really are a senior’s best friend: According to a study, dog owners in particular have been found to have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, fewer heart attacks – just fewer medical problems in general – all a boon to healthy aging. Pets are the hearts and souls of our lives. “Pets bring people so much joy, they help to connect people and provide both physical and mental health benefits to their humans. I have so many senior clients who have mentioned to me that their dogs keep them fit as they need to be walked and played with,” says Dr. Sharon Quinn, cofounder and CEO of Vetwell Rockcliffe Animal Hospital in Waterdown, ON and Nelson Animal Hospital in Burlington. Pets Make us Laugh They not only get us out and about and connecting to others, these family members make a house a home. “Pets make us laugh with their silly antics, bringing us out of our often overstimulated minds and allowing us to enjoy the present moment,” says Dr. Quinn. Their calming presence is something we could all benefit coming home to, especially in these stressful times, and lots of us do just that. Almost 80% of Canadian households have welcomed at least one pet into their fold, with just over 28 million pets living in our homes. Cats rule but dogs are a close second. Actually, Benny rules in Eleanor Williams’ life. “My Benny is my everything! He is my fur child and I talk to him and he listens – and never barks back ,” laughs Williams, a 77-year-old senior living in Hamilton. “We have such a deep bond and he’s taught me the best lessons in life – unconditional love, no judgments, no grudges, loyalty, being happy about the smallest things in life and being up for anything that might come your way,” she says. Williams walks her spunky mini poodle about 5 km every day, rain or shine, and attributes dog ownership to keeping her heart healthy and connected to her community. “I’ve met the nicest people through my dog.” Fur Friends Reduce Stress Social bonds are essential to our health and yet as we get older, our social networks get smaller and isolation and loneliness can creep in, posing serious health risks. Animal friends can fill that void with caring companionship and loving physical contact – even just 10 minutes of petting your dog or cat releases an abundance of happy hormones, reducing stress, anxiety and even depression in seniors. And they provide regular opportunities for socialization. Having a dog makes you seem more social, approachable and friendly. Who doesn’t want to exchange funny fur stories or get your pup some extra pats and love? There’s just so much to bark about: Their needs, care and the daily structure can fill us with purpose; daily responsibilities refocus energies and remind us of our capabilities, value and worth – all positives for aging in a healthy way. For many of us, growing older is better with a pet. But if pet ownership isn’t an option, you can always volunteer at an animal shelter, arrange pet therapy visits or even do some pet-sitting. Should You Get a Pet? Adopting a dog is a decision not to be taken lightly. “Small dogs and cats are both great pets for seniors but the pros and cons would need to be considered given the individual’s circumstances,” says Dr. Quinn, who also co-founded Smart.Vet, a 24/7 virtual care service that supports vets and provides pet owners with telehealth via video, phone or message from the comfort of their own homes. “Ideally there would be a family member or friend available to assist with care when the owner is unavailable or away, so that the pet does not limit the person’s independence, ability to travel, etc.” says Dr. Quinn. Alternatively there are an increasing number of individuals and small businesses offering dog-walking and pet-sitting services. Adopting a dog can be rewarding but there are also challenges, especially for older adults who may have health or mobility issues, according to McMaster’s Optimal Aging Portal. They recommend:

Prioritize self-care and limit negative news to diminish stress April is Stress Awareness Month and, coincidentally, many of us are super stressed. We are living in a time of anxiety as financial and political turmoil causes rampant uncertainty in our lives, and it’s taking a toll on our mental health. A new Omnibus Survey reports that half of Canadians have experienced  heightened anxiety over the past month as rising living costs, trade tensions and global conflicts top our list of worries. Our brains are struggling with the 24/7 onslaught of negative news, posts and pings. It can feel like we’re drowning in bad news. Stress and anxiety surge as the body’s natural reaction to danger, and it’s all utterly exhausting and depletes our positivity and productivity. “When the brain is bombarded with excessive negativity, it can enter a state of shutdown – a temporary paralysis of our decision-making processes,” says Ottawa psychotherapist Joshua Peters. “With global uncertainty at a peak, in my practice I’m witnessing an increasing number of clients entering this state. They feel overwhelmed by unfolding global events while also feeling powerless to take action.” Make time for healthy habits As human beings, we can’t stand uncertainty but right now it’s unavoidable so it’s important to take care of our mental health and emotional well-being. Taking time to promote inner peace and look after yourself will help you better cope, and calm your mind and lift your overall mood. Interrupt the downward spiral by disconnecting often with your devices and engaging in activities that help you relax and recharge. “Soothe the body. When we can’t control the world around you – focus on your body,” recommends Peters, director of Clinical Training Programs at the Centre for Interpersonal Relationships at cfir.ca. Prioritize self-care including regular physical fitness – 30 minutes 4-5 times a week – along with healthy food choices, and relaxing activities including warm baths, massages and proper sleep. “Ensuring we prioritize these tasks first helps energize us to engaged in the more difficult and complex tasks of life.”  Combat negative news overload by reducing your intake and prioritize the issues that are most important to you, says Peters. “I usually suggest containing your intake of news to a specific time of day for about 30 minutes. Think back to when we would get a daily newspaper, read it for 20 or so minutes, and then go about our day.” Take small actions He adds that this isn’t an avoidance strategy but instead a recognition that our minds have only evolved to take in so much negativity at once. Take small (and sometimes large) actions on specific topics that are important to you. “If you have the energy and passion to engage in bigger actions like attending protests or organizing politically do so. However, oftentimes small and consistent actions are just as important to social movements.”  Connect and talk with others who share your concerns. Discuss with each other actions you can take together in solidarity to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Seek out multiple perspectives on topics, suggests Peters. All too often, we get caught in “echo chambers” within the news and hearing other options gets lost in the process. Learning about how others make sense of situations can help us better understand our own.  It’s also common in times of instability to struggle to understand the experiences of others. “Try your best to understand how opposing sides may themselves be trying their best to survive even if their motives appear nonsensical. This type of reflection isn’t meant to excuse the actions of others, but it can help create better understanding. Most often it leads to greater empathy, compromise, and more creative solutions.” Seek intergenerational dialogue Connect with individuals from across the generations to better understand their experience and share your own, suggests Peters. Numerous studies have consistently demonstrated that engaging in this type of intergenerational dialogue fosters mental well-being. Do your best to keep calm and carry on. “On a positive note, seniors are particularly well suited to understand that history tends to be cyclical. In doing so, they can offer hope to future generations with the wisdom that the world has always experienced periods of chaos and relative stability.” Recognizing this as a fundamental truth can help both empower individuals to advocate for change, while reducing the pressure they feel to respond to every single news event, he adds. 

Happy spring! We all love the idea of a freshly-cleaned and organized home – inside and out – but actually doing the work, not so much! May we suggest adding some upbeat music to help you get in the mood to declutter, deep clean and prep your home for the season. Cranking up the tunes motivates and energizes so we get that sweeping and mopping, spraying and dusting, done in no time. Scientific research shows that music can act on the brain similar to a psychedelic drug, triggering pleasure and immediate mental health benefits. Feel-good endorphins are released, which quell anxiety, boost productivity and get you in the groove. We could all use some inspiration to get in the spring cleaning groove. Actually, 93% of us would rather do anything other than spring clean, according to a Molly Maid survey – 44% would choose to public speak over cleaning. Scrubbing tubs and toilets is no fun, and so too window washing and gutter cleaning. Get groovin’ while removing grime But the fact is mess creates stress – whether it’s indoors or outdoors – weighing us down, and cluttering us mentally and physically. A good cleanup lifts spirits and lets the sun shine in. It makes room for joy and a healthy and happy spring – so let’s get at it. Keep in mind, there’s always help to be had so it’s not overwhelming. Hit all the right notes with a helping hand from Custodia Home Management for all your yard work, repairs and seasonal maintenance needs. So whistle while you work – or belt out a tune. Let the music move you to tackle and triumph over your annual spring cleanup. Get groovin’ while removing grime. Chores don’t seem to take as long when you’re listening to these energizing tunes: Get pumped listening Spotify’s Happy Cleaning, Spring Cleaning Songs or Housework Hits! (Spotify Free operates with advertisements and limited controls). No mess, no stress Reap the health benefits of a healthy home. The phrase, “clean home, clean mind” is so true. It’s not only about keeping our literal house in order but it clears out and releases the clutter from our emotional, mental and physical houses too. Creating a well-maintained home brings peace of mind, calmness and happiness. You’ll also breathe easier too when things are tidier and less cluttered because it reduces allergens. One big domestic irritant is the house dust mite which is a top source for lots of sneezing and wheezing. Another household contributor to inflammation and immune dysfunction is mold – it contributes to respiratory illnesses such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. Clearing out the clutter that’s accumulated over the long winter months is a good place to start. If there are things, objects, clothes, books, furniture, etc., that don’t serve a real purpose in the present or very near future, or are things that are kept out of guilt, that is clutter. If you can’t say that you really want it or need it within three seconds, it is probably clutter. Focus on a room by room review. Don’t get over zealous. Give yourself a timeline, and remember to be realistic with what you can achieve in your allotted time. Changing your tune now will free you from facing the music later: Neglecting important chores and home maintenance tasks leads to stress, overwhelming clutter and unnecessary costs down the road. So here’s to a new season and fresh start! Custodia Home Management is sweet music to all our ears and is always reading and willing to lend a helping hand.  Spring cleaning must-dos Essential home tune-ups ensure living spaces are healthy and safe. A well-maintained home brings peace of mind, comfort and joy, and frees you up to focus on what matters most – the people we love and summertime living. We’re pros at spring cleanup. Here are a few of our favourite things: The top 10 most hated chores according to YELP:

As we come out of hibernation and feel the warm sunshine on our faces, there’s a wonderful feeling of renewal and the urge to refresh our lives. Time to shake off winter’s heaviness and embrace the new season’s light energy with healthy resets. Spring cleaning our lifestyle habits and home spaces will truly help revive winter-weary spirits and feed our mental well-being too.  Breathe new vibes and energy into your life by tackling home-maintenance tasks that have been weighing heavy the last few months. Spirits will be lighter and spring will sparkle when windows are shiny and yards are cleaned up with Custodia professionals lending a hand.   Refresh and renew your lifestyle habits too, including a healthy diet do-over. March is Nutrition Month and the perfect time to focus on good eating habits. Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is important at all ages, but especially as we grow older. Our nutritional needs change as we age so fueling are bodies right keeps us energized and vibrant, supports strong immune systems and diminishes the risk of chronic diseases.  Nourish to flourish with the help of leading registered dietitian Abby Langer. There are a bounty of benefits to eating well: “Disease prevention, mobility, and overall health maintenance are definitely impacted by diet. We can’t remove all the risk for these things, but diet is one factor that we have control over.” As we get older, our risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases rises, along with mobility issues and injury. “To help prevent these things, it’s important to pay particular attention to certain nutrients.”  “It’s not about one single food preventing illness – it’s the totality of our diet that matters,” says Langer.  Meet important nutritional needs with Langer’s strategies:  The aging experts at McMaster Optimal Aging Portal recommend watching your portion size. “Portion control can help prevent overeating while ensuring you get the nutrients you need.” Be sure to decrease your intake of processed and sugary foods for healthy aging. “Processed foods often contain high levels of sodium, unhealthy fats, and added sugars, which can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure,” recommends the portal. Meanwhile, grocery prices are high so just how just how can we get biggest health bang for our food buck? “Beans and lentils – canned or dry – are my favourite foods! Packed with protein, fibre and healthy carbs, these cost-effective powerhouses are versatile and delicious,” says Langer.  Soy foods like tofu are also fantastic protein sources that are easy on the wallet. And frozen and canned fruits and vegetables and buying in-season produce can also save you money, she adds. Here are two recipes from nutrition expert Abby Langer that are super tasty and good for you too! Greek BBQ Lemon Chicken This Greek-style chicken recipe is great anytime, recommends nutrition expert Abby Langer, and especially perfect for summer grilling season. Servings: 4  Ingredients For the chicken: For the tzatziki: Instructions Marinate the chicken: Throw all of the chicken ingredients into a large Ziploc bag. Marinate in the fridge for as long as you can – up to the whole day. Make the tzatziki: Combine all the ingredients to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Cook the chicken: Preheat your BBQ to medium-high. Grill the chicken, flipping once, until cooked through. You can also bake it in the oven if you prefer.  Serve with warmed pita breads, hummus, tzatziki, and salad. Black Bean and Sweet Potato Burrito Servings: 4  Ingredients Instructions Preheat oven to 350F. Heat the olive oil in a small pot over medium heat and add the onion, sautéing until translucent and fragrant. Add the garlic and cumin and cook for another 60 seconds, then add the beans and salt. Let simmer for about 10 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside. Slice the sweet potato widthwise into ½-inch slices (no need to peel, unless you want to). Brush each side with olive oil and lay the slices on a baking sheet. Bake the sweet potato slices for around 30-40 minutes or until browned and tender, turning once. You can also make these on the BBQ, using indirect heat. To assemble the burritos, lay a wrap on a flat surface and layer the beans and cooked sweet potato slices. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and any other desired toppings. Fold both ends of the wrap up, then roll the wrap from one side to the other.

Love knows no age; the golden years can be a time of new beginnings and meaningful connections. Embracing Love And Connection Later in Life Contrary to outdated stereotypes, finding love isn’t just for the young. Many seniors discover that their later years bring clarity, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for companionship. Whether rekindling romance, exploring new relationships, or forming deep connections, love thrives at any age. Rediscovering Yourself – The First Step to Love Entering the senior years often means more time for self-reflection and personal growth. With careers winding down and family responsibilities shifting, many find themselves reconnecting with passions, hobbies, and aspirations they may have set aside. This self-discovery creates a strong foundation for meaningful relationships, as authenticity leads to deeper connections. Finding Love in Your Senior Years becomes a rewarding journey when built on self-awareness and genuine connections. The Power of Community And Social Engagement Engaging in social activities is a wonderful way to meet like-minded individuals. Whether through senior centers, hobby clubs, or community events, opportunities for interaction abound. Many seniors find companionship through: The Rise of Online Dating For Seniors Technology has transformed the dating landscape, and seniors are embracing it with enthusiasm. Online dating platforms specifically designed for older adults provide a safe and convenient way to connect. These platforms allow seniors to take their time, explore potential matches, and engage in meaningful conversations before meeting in person. The key to success? Keeping an open mind and embracing the possibilities. Second Chances And Fresh Starts For many seniors, love later in life is a beautiful second chance. Whether due to the loss of a spouse, a past relationship ending, or simply a renewed desire for companionship, opening one’s heart to love again takes courage. Every relationship is a unique journey, and embracing new beginnings can bring profound joy and fulfillment. Shared Wisdom – A Stronger Foundation For Love One of the greatest advantages of finding love later in life is the wisdom gained through experience. Seniors bring a wealth of knowledge about relationships, communication, and resilience. This shared understanding fosters deeper emotional connections, mutual respect, and appreciation for life’s simple joys. Final Thoughts – Love is Timeless Finding love in your senior years is a testament to the enduring power of human connection. By embracing self-discovery, engaging with communities, exploring online dating, and remaining open to second chances, seniors are proving that love truly knows no age. Whether seeking companionship, romance, or a lifelong partnership, the golden years offer endless opportunities for love and happiness.  

Shared family experiences become memories – of fun times, delicious meals, belonging and healthy belly laughs.  A collection of memories are a wonderful thing to have, especially revisiting them as we age. It’s not the fancy car or the big house that warm our hearts when we look back. It’s times together, like at Christmas, a birthday or a trip, that provoke happy thoughts, spark interesting conversations and foster closeness.  Memories matter – happy ones especially nourish our mental health. Family travel is a wonderful way to create those lasting memories. You walk, you gawk, you eat, you talk, you laugh – all things that contribute to a balanced healthy life and positive mindset.  On holidays, there are no doctor appointments to get to, no dishes to do, no drop-offs. No leaves to rake, no snow to shovel or house repairs to take care of – you’ve got custodia.com to take care of all home maintenance needs when away and at home. No stress; just relax and recharge, and break from boring routines of everyday life. Travel Boosts Wellbeing Right now, winter travel plans are top of mind for many Canadians as the chilly temps descend and we dream of sunshine and sandy beaches. Anticipation of good times ahead is a bona fide mood booster, sure to incite our happy hormones, lifting our spirits, energy and well-being.  Studies show that travel has benefits, especially for seniors: Taking a trip is an investment in your longevity. A new study published in the Journal of Travel Research suggests that positive travel experiences can help slow biological aging as travel offers a valuable opportunity to reduce stress, and nurture both physical and mental health.  Participating in social activities helps maintain your wellbeing and independence as you age. Being socially isolated damages overall health so it’s important to seek out activities that are meaningful for you and benefit your mind, body and spirit.  Take The Kids – And Grandkids Too While traveling with potentially less-mobility needs to be kept in mind, getting away encourages us to be more active and forget about physical capabilities. It’s easy for older adults to define themselves by their inabilities and disabilities, but a family holiday is the perfect opportunity to remember and celebrate how much you can do. Multigenerational vacations – complete with kids and grandparents – are the trend, far more than previous generations. According to one survey, 54% of the grandparents surveyed say they plan and organize multigenerational travel experiences, and half having taken a multigenerational trip in the past three years. And 57% of seniors travel to spend time with family and friends, according to an AARP survey. Seniors Exploring Solo No need to stay home if you don’t have family free to go or a travel buddy. Solo travel is growing – and seniors are on board. Actually, 84% of solo travelers are women of all ages. They want to explore new places on their own, meet people of similar interests, get some education and culture, and still have the comfort of their own room.  My recent solo trip to Iceland via Play Airlines has made me feel bolder, better and more confident at age 65. Traveling minus my family was a first. With a focus on exploration, relaxation and cuisine, the island is the perfect destination to recharge batteries, escape tedious routines and experience new places, people, cultures and foods. And make great memories too. It provided rest, recuperation and rejuvenation. Close encounters with glaciers, waterfalls and nature definitely re-energized my mind, body and soul. There was an awesome hike on a 700-year-old glacier tongue and incredible close-ups of amazing waterfalls along the South Coast with Arctic Adventures. The thermal baths at Sky Lagoon soothed away stress for the ultimate in relaxation. An exhilarating day via super jeep for some Glacier Snowmobiling & Golden Circle Adventure was simply exhilarating.  And dining was fine and simply divine: There was Monkeys with its awesome tasting menu; OTO which fuses Japanese and Italian cuisine; and Kol with its delicious fusion menu and innovative cocktails – all restaurants in downtown Reykjavik. Stay awhile Meanwhile, wandering from home can elicit “travel fever” – fraught with anxiety and worry, says cultural psychologist Dr. Andrew Stevenson. It’s a common travel companion likely because of nervous anticipation and experiencing unfamiliar surroundings and cultural differences.  No worries, there are lots of more conservative travel options to experience new places, including cruise ships, luxury coaches, international hotels and backpacker hostels – all less adventurous and immersive but minus the risks, says Stevenson, whose blog The Psychology of Travel, appears on Psychology Today. He believes the best travel is about immersion and longer stays: “A two-week trip trumps weekend breaks, to reduce carbon emissions and help you unwind. There is also evidence that eudemonic travel (involving self-improvement, such as learning a language or cooking or yoga retreats) can be more beneficial long-term than hedonistic travel (thrill seeking).” Stevenson adds: “Always remember that leisure travel is a privilege that most of the world’s population does not have access to, and that the places we visit are also inhabited by hosts. Take the time to find out about the cultural diversity of the many beautiful places we can visit.” 

Tis the season for joy, gingerbread and celebrating with family and friends – but for far too many of our seniors, it’s a season of loneliness. Instead of a day to look forward to, Christmas can be the hardest day of the year. The holidays, with its emphasis on festive family togetherness, can be a heart-wrenching time, amping up feelings of exclusion and loneliness. “All I want for Christmas is a bit more company,” says Lenore P. of Hamilton. Since losing her husband four years ago, the lights have dimmed when it comes to holiday happiness and traditions. The 83-year-old widow isn’t in good enough health to travel to see her younger sister in B.C. and her son who lives overseas can’t make it home this year.  Merry memories and sweet holiday nostalgia warm her heart but are also tinged with sadness, and amplify the loneliness she feels living alone in her tiny, two-bedroom home. “I feel the season of joy is now one of sorrow and I’ll be glad when it’s over,” says Lenore, who will be having Christmas dinner at a neighbour’s house and for that she is grateful. Loneliness is a Health Hazard Loneliness is a painful problem, not just at Christmas, but year round. The World Health Organization has declared a loneliness epidemic. Experts are sounding the alarm on the health consequences of social isolation and loneliness for our aging demographic.  Severe loneliness is as dangerous for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, says Dr. Samir Sinha, director of Geriatrics at Mount Sinai Hospital. “Not only can it worsen a person’s physical and mental health, it can also increase their risk of developing dementia.” Loneliness can contribute to risk of stroke, cardiometabolic diseases, declining mental health, and premature mortality. “One of the biggest challenges is that loneliness begets loneliness – being lonely inhibits you from reaching out to others, right when you need it most,” says Kate Mulligan, assistant professor of social and behavioral health sciences at the University of Toronto.  We Need Meaningful Connections Loneliness isn’t just about having fewer social connections than you want, it’s also about feeling like you matter to someone, that you are valued in your community, says Mulligan. “That existential loneliness can be particularly acute over the holiday season when the days are short and dark, the weather is cold, and there can be a feeling of pressure to be social. “It’s extra hard for people who face social exclusion or invisibility in their daily lives due to intersecting factors like ableism, ageism, racism and homophobia,” she adds. The majority of older Canadians – 58% – reported experiencing some level of loneliness, while nearly 20% reported being very lonely, in a report from the National Institute of Ageing. The “cure” is meaningful social interactions with at least one person but the challenge is getting individuals together and interacting in a meaningful way. “It’s important during holidays to think about those who may be less connected and what might be driving this – to support them in being able to connect and celebrate with others,” says Dr. Sinha. Social Prescribing Programs Reduce Loneliness Support could be as simple as organizing more telephone, video or in-person check ins, or finding ways to help a person plan ahead so they can get to and meaningfully participate in a gathering, for example organizing a ride to get them there and back. As we age, we tend to outlive other family members and friends. “Strengthening social networks can allow people to ensure they have a group of people they can connect with regularly in meaningful ways especially around the holidays. This may require reaching out to relatives, distant friends and acquaintances to invest the time in developing relationships,” says Dr. Sinha. According to Mulligan, there are simple, evidence-based solutions that show really dramatic results for people experiencing loneliness. “Social prescribing, for example, is really catching on across Canada, especially with community-based groups who work with older adults.  “In a social prescribing project I worked on in Ontario, participants reported a 49% reduction in loneliness and reduced their number of healthcare visits significantly because they were being better served in the community.” In BC, provincially-funded community connectors help older adults in over 100 communities to reconnect with their communities through home supports, arts and culture, nature and exercise, and more, says Mulligan. Similar programs are underway in every province across Canada and in many other countries around the world.  Sign up For Calls And Visits “Social prescribing helps isolated older adults switch the focus from ‘what’s the matter with me’ to ‘what matters to me,’ and brings a lot of joy and connection through support to participate in simple health-promoting activities with others,” says Mulligan, senior director of the Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing.  Kate Mulligan Offers These Tips to Combat Loneliness: