was designed to be a virtual program in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. RISE continues to operate daily with programs that focus on physical exercise, social programming and workshops.
The goal of RISE is to decrease social isolation for those unable to leave their homes or are faced with extraordinary barriers to attend in person programs. RISE helps to connect our seniors to resources and a supportive community without having to travel outside the home.
is an integrated in person program offered in community spaces and places of worship to keep participants healthy and socially connected. Using exercise, social activities, arts programs and education & awareness workshops, the program aims to reduce social isolation and improve the wellbeing of our clients to age in place.
is delivered in collaboration with Carefirst Seniors and Community Services Association. Led by qualified instructors, classes focus on helping clients build endurance, strength, flexibility and balance to mitigate falls.
provides an integrated ethno-specific program in a culturally and linguistically sensitive manner for frail seniors who may also have borderline dementia. This program consists of information on prevention and wellness philosophies, yoga and mild mobility exercises, enjoyable activities, including the opportunity for socialization and peer support.
At Senior Services Network (SSN), our knowledge bridging and education programs are designed to support seniors in "aging in place," helping them live safely and comfortably in their homes and communities for as long as possible. These programs provide essential information and skills on topics such as home safety, technology, health, social and cultural engagement. By empowering older adults with the tools they need, we enable them to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life. Working collaboratively with community partners, SSN ensures that seniors have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
is a transformative arts-based program designed to enrich the lives of seniors through a health and wellness lens. By exploring diverse forms of creative expression, seniors enhance cognitive health, combat social isolation, and foster a strong sense of belonging in a peer-supported environment. In partnership with Next Generation Arts (NGA), SSN implements EAA activities that emphasize intergenerational and cross- cultural dialogue, supporting mental wellness and cultural understanding. Through both the creation and appreciation of art, EAA challenges ageism, empowers seniors, and promotes overall well-being.
for seniors, volunteering and taking on leadership roles in the community promotes active aging, which can enhance quality of life in one's later years.
Volunteering provides a sense of purpose, builds critical skills, promotes physical health, and creates natural pathways for establishing social networks. Senior Services Network supports seniors' clubs so that they can operate autonomously in our community.
For information about local resident led programs like Zumba and Tai Chi please contact Naz Arain - naz@ssnon.com.
Senior Services Network is co-leading the development of a Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan for the South – Markham community. The mandate of this collaboration is to strengthen local capacity by convening a broad cross-section of community stakeholders to address risks to community safety and well-being, identify short- and longer-term solutions to address these risks, and articulating these insights for inclusion in the CSWB Plan for York Region.
As a key partner in the Eastern York Region North Durham Ontario Health Team (EYRND OHT), SSN plays a role in advocating for and addressing the needs of racialized and aging communities. Through our involvement in governance structures like the Core Leadership Council (CLC) and various committees, we contribute to improving care coordination, transitional programs, and system integration efforts. Our collaboration ensures that culturally responsive, community-based solutions are prioritized within Ontario Health initiatives, enhancing accessibility and equity to health care of the community.
“My confidence level was very low, but after attending the sessions, I felt that I was strong, and I could build my confidence strong. I don’t have to think about who will say something, I should care for myself. Before I was very down and I was shy to express myself, but after attending a couple of these sessions, I have a strong feeling in my heart, and I can express myself now. There was a big change in myself.”