This vignette is based on my lived experience over time. My first job as a social worker in the early 1960s was with older adults (in one of the first home care programs in Canada). I learned much from them on how to live my life and how to optimize life as I grew older. My practice has focused on clinical work and community development, especially in the areas of health and gerontology. With students and colleagues, we developed an empowerment model of practice in long-term care with resident councils, initiatives with families, and staff training.

In the 1990s, a colleague enticed me to become a member of the Toronto Council on Aging, in order to raise awareness of the needs of older adults, improve their quality of life, foster their involvement in all aspects of community life, and support the experience of aging through education and leadership. I speak from my own experience, combined with what I have learned from older friends and from the wider community of older people through informal contacts and also research.

Aging in Toronto

I have lived in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and now Ontario; in small towns, mid-sized cities, and for over 50 years in Toronto. While Toronto has great diversity and a rich array of social, recreation, education, volunteer, and employment possibilities, it is so very large and complex that it is difficult to know what these opportunities are and how to access them. Similarly, health and social services can be difficult to navigate, even for someone like myself who has experience and skills in this area.

Toronto has superior health resources, however, there can be long waiting times. Concepts of informed consent and person-centred care are increasingly accepted. However, that being said, many seniors report a paternalistic approach that diminishes their confidence, silences their voice, and lessens their autonomy.

In terms of municipal services, Toronto has recently implemented a Senior Strategy, appointed a councillor as the Seniors Advocate, and passed a motion to assess policies through a senior's lens. The city council is restructuring its services to seniors, giving them higher priority and providing more coordinated service. Public transportation options are being slowly improved. Some years ago, seating was designated for seniors but indicated by tiny signs that were often poorly placed so not visible to passengers.