Our 50+ Recreation Centres are open on select days of the week during the Stage 3 of Province-wide Re-opening plan. More information about COVID-19 Recreation Safety. Program registration is available.

View our new Fall 2021 50+ Newsletter for more information on what the City of Cambridge has to offer it's 50+ community.

Winter program registration begins Wednesday December 15, 2021! 

 Facility

Schedule

Special Considerations – Public Entrance

David Durward Centre (DDC)

 

 

Cambridge Centre for the Arts (CCA)

Tues, Wed, Thurs

8:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

 

Only open for camps

Please enter through entrance at 62 Dickson Street (corner of Dickson & Wellington) 

4 p.m.- 9p.m. enter through CCA entrance 

Allan Reuter Centre (ARC)

Tues, Wed, Thurs

8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

 Front entrance on King St.

William E. Pautler Centre

Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri

8:30 a.m. -4:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. 

Starting Sept. 27 all pickleball and conditioning room programs will enter through the SOUTH entrance by the Pharmacy to COVID screen, check-in & provide proof of vaccination.

Ted Wake Centre

(W.G Johnson Centre)

Mon - Fri

6:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

 Enter front entrance of Johnson Centre.

Per Provincial requirements, proof of vaccine will be required to enter municipal recreation facilities in Waterloo Region beginning Sept. 22. For full details visit our vaccination requirements page.

As with many of our services during this pandemic, staff have been working to find a balance that provides options to the community, while still ensuring the highest level of safety.  There are many recreation programs you may still  participate in from the comfort of your home.

Stay socially connected by registering for one of the WOW Social or WOW Virtual programs. WOW Social is hosted over the telephone with other participants, and WOW Virtual is hosted over Zoom. Both offer a number of different topics (i.e., trivia games, musical, bingo, educational)

If you are a Facebook follower you will be pleased to hear that there is now a 50+ Facebook page with lots of great links to online events

The City of Cambridge has four 50+ Recreation Centres which offer a variety of great activities for active older adults! Whether you are looking to get fit or stay fit, learn a new instrument or art form, expand your knowledge or enjoy a friendly game of cards, we have something for everyone.

An annual membership to our 50+ Recreation Centres costs $31.82 (plus HST) and includes access to all four 50+ community centres, free drop-in programs, a discount on registered program fees, access to clubs and more!

  Recreation & Leisure Resources for Older Adults While Practicing Physical Distancing

 Physical Activities (updated Nov 19 2021)

 

The Local YMCA’s have compiled a number of options to keep you active at home. Opportunities for all ages and abilities. Classes include Zumba, Zumba Gold, Beginner and Advanced Bootcamp as well as Flow and weight classes.  

Von Smart Program Exercise and Falls Prevention Program - group exercise that is high mobility-low impact.

Falls training program (12 training modules provided by the Upper Grand Family Health Team & VON Canada).

The National Institute of Aging - Go 4 Life Program has provided strength & flexibility exercises.

Gentle Chair Yoga (30 minute session) provided by University Health - LEAP Service.

Walking/Mindfulness - daily walking 10 minute mindful practices.
 Arts & Culture
 

Experience virtual museum tours from around the world, an alternative to in-person visits: 

Royal Ontario Museum - Toronto, British Museum - London, Guggenheim Museum - New York, and National Gallery of Art - Washington DC., Musee d'Orsay - Paris, National Museum of Contemporary Art - Seoul, Pergamon Museum - Berlin, Rijksmuseum - Amsterdam, Van Gogh Museum - Amsterdam, The J Paul Getty Museum - Los Angeles, Uffizi Gallery - Florence,  MASP - Sao Paulo, and National Museum of Anthropology - Mexico City.

The Museum is offering unique programming called 55 & Better the first and third Thursday of every month.

Virtual art classes, tours and exhibitions via the Homer Watson House and Gallery.

View sea life virtually from popular aquariums - Ripleys Aquarium of Canada, and the  Vancouver Aquarium

Endless virtual opportunities to view landmarks, art, history, cultural sites and architecture from around the world. 

National Arts Centre is providing a number of scheduled performances by Canadian Artists from various venues that have been impacted by the current covid-19 pandemic.

Awe inspiring Cirque du Soleil show footage and fan favourite videos.  Exercise the cirque way, learn new makeup techniques or dive into virtual reality.

Interested in viewing some Unesco sites?  Take a virtual tour without having to leave your home.
 Crafts/DIY Projects
 

There are many sewing projects that you may enjoy including the Cambridge Memorial Hospital sewing mask challenge,  creating DIY reusable produce bags,  DIY tote bags, and you may like to check out HGTV's 10 easy sewing projects for beginners.  Create your own hand-sewn face mask - no sewing machine required.

If knitting is more you thing why not try to knit a simple dishcloth, or absolute beginners may wish to try your hand at knitting a scarf, and for those of you wishing to help a great cause why not knit hats for premature babies

There are many online colouring books that you may wish to download, enabling you to spend some relaxing moments  seeing your creations come to life.  Try the world museum colouring book, Super Colouring Pages for adults, or try Just Colour which offers various colouring pages to suit your mood.

Enjoy painting?  Why not sit back, relax and enjoy the images that Bob Ross has to offer.

If you fancy trying your hand at drawing why not check out the quick beginner's guide to drawing.
 Education and Information

Feel like doing some online learning?  The Massachusettes Institute of Learning (MIT) is offering free and open publication of thousands of MIT courses within their curriculum, ranging from introductory to the most advanced graduate level.  Best of all there is no sign up required, no enrollment needed, and no start and end dates.  Happy learning.

OpenLearn is providing free access to gradudate and undergraduate course materials including subjects such as arts, history, business and education, to information technology, math, science, and statistiacs, health and technology.  They have provided many options for you to choose from.

Perhaps you would like to try learning a new language while at home?  Duolingo provides a free service to teach several different languages with quick, daily lessons. 

Get your popcorn ready, sit back and enjoy hundreds of shows, movies and live t.v. from CBC's free streaming services.

 
 Nature
 

Explore birding in your local area, and learn what species you see when out walking (practicing proper social distancing).  Ebird is a collaborative tool where users may upload local bird sightings, which aids as useful research for conservation areas regarding the local biodiversity.

Interested in visiting one of Canada's National Parks?  Parks Canada has put a number of its parks on google street view, thereby allowing you to travel to new parks destinations from the comfort of your home.  Check out parts of Banff National Park, as well as some historical sites.

Take some time to view The Nature of Things.  CBC's website has various nature docuseries uploaded on various topics such as Canada's grasslands to Arctic ice.
 Games & Puzzles
 

Crossword puzzles are a great way to engage the mind while passing the time.  We've got a few options to you - why not give them a try?  Washington Post Crosswords, Best Crosswords, Readers Digest Canada, or Boatload Puzzles.

Wordsearch Puzzles are always a fun activity to while away the hours - so give these a try.  The Alzheimer Society of Canada has provided some online puzzles for your enjoyment,  you may enjoy The Word Search, or WordSearchPuzzles.

Sudoku more you thing?  We've got some online challenges for you - Sudoku.com, 24/7 Sudoku, and the NY Times Sudoku.

Is your brain in need of a workout?  Why not try some brain teasers/trivia games and give your brain some exercise!

Jig Saw puzzles - try these out & you won't lose any pieces on the floor while completing them! Jig Saw Planet and Jig Saw Explorer.

WOW... (Without Walls)

No Technology/Device Required (just a home phone)

Are you looking for something to do that doesn't involve having to utilize your device/technology? Perhaps you have a relative, friend, or neighbour that does not have access to the internet and you're looking for suggestions to keep them engaged. Feel free to share Activities for Older Adults to Do At Home Without Technology.

WOW Social - Without Walls  

If you have a phone then you can join WOW Social. The program is an extension of the Without Walls (WOW) telephone service that’s open to all older adults in the city. This program offers groups of people the opportunity to get together over the phone for conversation, trivia games, bingo, and even musical sessions while our in-person programs and services are closed. Be sure to spread the word to anyone you know that may be interested in this type of program - we hope to hear from them soon

Sessions will be offered Thursdays and are 30 to 45 minutes in duration. Examples of activities being planned for WOW Social include:

  • Musical entertainment
  • Fitness and exercise programs
  • Health & wellness – meditation, mindfulness, caregiver support
  • Brain games & trivia
  • Education and information 
 How to Participate

Different themes and programs will be offered each day. Those interested can check the program schedule to decide which days they want to participate. Participants must register in advance for their chosen days. For those participating in the program for the first time, or those requiring support to set up an account, please allow up to 48 hours for initial enrollment.   

To register online, click on the schedule above to register for your session, or call Friendly Visiting Team at (519) 623-1340, Ext. 4820 or email wow@cambridge.ca if you require assistance. WOW Social is free, however some sessions have limited space. Waitlists will be available for sessions that are full and recreation staff will schedule additional sessions if needed.
 Schedule
WOW Social Schedule 

December 2 2021 - Jokes & One Liners  

December 9 2021 - Holiday Decorating Reminiscing 

December 16 2021 - Holiday Trivia  

December 23 2021 - Different Holiday Traditions   

 

WOW Respectful Conduct Policy:

To promote a welcoming and safe setting for all, we ask that participants observe our WOW Respectful Conduct Policy:

  • to participate in a kind and respectful manner
  • to create an inclusive environment that honours people of all cultures, traditions, faiths, genders, sexual orientation, abilities, and life experiences
  • to respect all group members and their opinions, even if they differ from your own
  • to allow the facilitator, volunteer or guest speaker to lead the conversation or activity
  • to allow everyone a chance to speak and participate by not dominating conversations
  • to maintain confidentiality – information that is shared on the call by others should be kept private and confidential

WOW Virtual is here!

WOW Virtual is interactive video based programming from the comfort of your home by using your camera via you internet connected device (desktop computer, laptop, tablet or SmartPhone). Topics include a crafter's corner, bingo, virtual tours etc.

WOW Virtual will allow you to participate in interactive activities such as arts & crafts, card games, advanced fitness and exercise classes.  Please note that some sessions may require a fee for materials and/or instructors.

How to Participate 

  1. Pre-register by calling (519) 623-1340, Ext 4280 or email wow@cambridge.ca or visit cambridge.ca/recfromhome/wowvirtual
  2. Download Zoom onto your device.
  3. On the day and time of the WOW Virtual program, click the Zoom link provided to you after your registration.

Useful Agency Information to Access During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Budget Update From Canada's Minister of Seniors (May 21/21)
Budgetary actions taken to help strengthen seniors financial security later in life.
Ontario Seniors Dental Care & Seniors Copayment Program (May 11/21)
The Ontario government recently released an update on access to dental care and affordable prescription drugs for vulnerable seniors.
How Older Adults Can Protect Their Physical & Mental Wellness During Covid-19 

For more information about programs and services that are available to help seniors lead healthy, active, and engaged lives over 65, please visit ontario.ca/Seniors.

Click here to view the guide to programs and services by the Ontario Government  

The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) shares practical advice on how to deal with challenges of Covid-19.

The Government of Canada recently launched a new portal dedicated to mental wellness: Wellness Together Canada: Mental Health and Substance Use Support. This portal provides free online resources, and connects Canadians to peer support workers, social workers, psychologists and other trained professionals for confidential chat sessions or phone calls, in both official languages. Resources include modules for addressing low mood, worry, substance use, social isolation and relationship issues. 

Government of Ontario Set To Launch Largest Flu Campaign in History

The Ontario government is implementing the largest flu immunization campaign in Ontario's history. The campaign is part of the province's comprehensive plan to prepare the health system for a second wave of COVID-19. The plan, entitled Keeping Ontarians Safe: Preparing for Future Waves of COVID-19, sets out a series of steps to prevent, identify and respond to any outbreak scenario this fall.

COVID-19 Public Health Resources

The Public Health Agency of Canada has resources available to assist seniors and caregivers, including information on how to prevent COVID-19 and tips on taking care of physical and mental health.
 Financial Supports for Older Adults during Covid-19 (updated Mar. 10/21)

What You Need to Know for the 2021 Tax Filing Season

This year, the COVID-19 pandemic may have affected your tax-filing situation and may also affect the way you usually file your income tax and benefit return. Over 30 million returns were filed last season, and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) wants to help you get ready to file your return this year.  Here’s what you need to know for this tax-filing season, including filing options, COVID-19 benefits, and what’s new.

Some seniors, income support recipients to get low-cost Rogers service
Information regarding the ability for some individuals to receive low-cost Rogers Service.

Beginning the week of July 6, 2020, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)/Service Canada will provide eligible seniors with a one-time tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension, with an additional $200 for seniors eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).

This measure would give a total of $500 to individuals who are eligible to receive both the OAS and the GIS, and will help them cover increased costs caused by COVID-19.

Individuals will not have to apply for this additional benefit.

Govt. has also temporarily extended GIS and Allowance payments if seniors’ 2019 income information has not been assessed.  This will ensure that the most vulnerable seniors continue to receive their benefits when they need them the most. To avoid an interruption in benefits, seniors are encouraged to submit their 2019 income information as soon as possible and no later than by October 1, 2020. You may also find information online at  canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/notice-covid-19/one-time-payment

 

PM's office releases information on May 12/20 regarding additional financial supports for older adults.
2021 Federal Budget Highlights re Seniors (updated April 26/21)

Here are a few of the key proposed initiatives in Budget 2021 for seniors:
 
Increasing seniors' financial security


The government will increase Old Age Security (OAS) benefits for seniors age 75 and older. Budget 2021 proposes to implement this commitment in two steps:

  1. By providing a one-time payment of $500 in August 2021 to OAS pensioners who will be 75 or over as of June 2022.
  2. By introducing legislation to increase regular OAS payments for pensioners 75 and over by 10 per cent on an ongoing basis as of July 2022.

This would increase the benefits for 3.3 million seniors, providing additional benefits of $766 to full OAS pensioners in the first year, and indexed to inflation going forward.
 
This would give seniors more financial security later in life, when they are worried about outliving their life savings. As seniors age, their health and home care costs rise, all while they are more likely to be unable to work, have disabilities or be widowed. Our plan helps address these pressures and improve older seniors' quality of life.
 
Helping Seniors Age Well at Home


To support seniors to live in their homes for longer as they age, Budget 2021 proposes to provide $90 million to launch the Age Well at Home initiative. The initiative would assist community-based organizations in providing practical support that helps low-income and otherwise vulnerable seniors age in their homes.
 
It would match seniors with volunteers who can help with meal preparations, home maintenance, daily errands, yard work, and transportation. It would also help seniors access local services such as shoveling snow, cutting grass, picking up medicine and taking care of other practical, non-medical tasks that they are no longer able to manage. 
 
Strengthening Long-term Care and Supportive Care
We welcome the Health Standards Organization and Canadian Standards Association's work to develop national standards for long-term care. Their work with governments, stakeholders, and Canadians will help inform our ongoing collaboration with provinces and territories on improving long-term care, while respecting their jurisdiction.
 
Budget 2021 proposes to provide $3 billion over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Health Canada to support provinces and territories in ensuring standards for long-term care are applied and permanent changes are made, so that seniors and those in care live in safe and dignified conditions.
 
More supports of interest to seniors


In addition to the supports mentioned above, Budget 2021 proposes to:

The Government of Canada's top priority remains protecting Canadians' health and safety, particularly during this third, aggressive wave of the virus and its variants. The vaccine rollout is accelerating across Canada, and the federal government is on track to receive 48 to 50 Million doses by the end of June.
 Grocery/Shopping info during Covid-19

 Access to Food Bank of Waterloo Region During the Pandemic

 If you are experiencing food concerns/shortages as a result of COVID-19, please call The Food Bank of Waterloo Region at 519-743-5576 ext. 340 and leave your name and number.  A representative from the Food Bank will connect with you. 

The City of Cambridge offers Support Services for Older Adults. Learn about volunteer opportunities and find ways to stay active and connected to your community.