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Being socially active and engaged in the community keeps you healthy - mentally and physically. In fact, people with strong social networks tend to be more active, feel happier, and are more supported.

Having a sense of purpose and something to offer helps older adults feel more satisfied and live a fuller life. Here are some tips to become active, engaged, and connected in your community.

• Look at your community for age-friendliness
  Are there social opportunities? Can you walk to shops and services? When older people are engaged and connected to communities, everyone benefits. If your community isn’t age-friendly consider becoming a local champion to make your community more age-friendly.
• Get out and about
  Find out about activities by contacting:
  • Public libraries
  • Volunteer centres
  • Cultural centres
  • Aboriginal Friendship Centres
  • Local chapters of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons
  • United Way offices
  • Recreation centres
• Celebrate physical activity
  Sporting activities are available in regions throughout the year through the 55+ BC Games zones, recreation centres, Via Sport British Columbia, and local sport clubs.

Did You Know?
The 55+ BC Games (formerly BC Seniors Games) give those aged 55+ the chance to compete in events from dragon-boating and ice hockey to cribbage and pickleball. There are also opportunities for volunteers of all ages.

• Connect via the internet
  If you have friends and family living in other communities, stay in touch with email, social media or Skype. Skype is a web-based tool for free face-to-face video calls or voice calls with other Skype users. You could participate in a book club meeting, read your grandchild a bedtime story, or have a coffee date and chat with a friend. As long as you have a good internet connection and a webcam you can interact with others without leaving your home.
• Join an online community
  Online communities also have opportunities for social interaction. There are a number of social media and web discussion forums and information on a wide range of topics.
• Become a volunteer grandparent
  Volunteer grandparents build strong communities through intergenerational connections. Applicants may be matched with families or with children in schools.

Did You Know?
Staying socially connected and active protects your health. Social isolation can put you at risk for cardiovascular disease poor physical health and depression.