The Origin Blog:
Senior Health, Wellness, News, & More

Solo Seniors are the growing number of older adults who are childless. While most older adults can rely on their children or spouse for assistance with planning for the future, Solo Seniors find themselves navigating many issues alone. In 2016, census information revealed that 28.2 percent of households in Canada were one-person households – a 25.7 percent increase from 2001. The most significant share of these households is in Atlantic provinces due to the aging population.

A detox, or detoxification, aims to rid the body of “toxins” or unwanted substances. Although the term can be misleading and is often associated with juice or sugar cleanses, a healthy detox program can be beneficial for the body. High consumption of “toxic” food or drinks, like those high in additives or preservatives, can lead to a weakened immune system and other health complications. It is especially important for those over 50 to make smarter, healthier food choices. Here are some tips when starting a detox program for seniors:

The largest demographic boom in Canada’s history is about to reach the age of retirement! By the year 2030 the youngest baby boomers will reach 65 years old, and at that time, it is estimated that one in four Canadians will be 65 or older. The social stigma that used to be associated with the word “retirement’ is gone, and seniors are redefining the way they spend their golden years.

As we age, our nutritional needs, appetite and food behaviours start to change. Our metabolism begins to slow down which increases the risk of developing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Additionally, as our metabolism slows down, the need for calories declines while the need for certain nutrients starts to increase. Healthy aging starts with healthy eating! Here are 3 simple practices to promote healthy eating for seniors: 

Alzheimer’s, dementia and other forms of memory impairment cause a decrease in cognition, or the mental process of thinking, such as reasoning, awareness, and judgment. This decline in cognition can cause health issues and the inability to perform daily living tasks. Origin memory care communities are designed to offer resort-style amenities and services with the added benefits of around the clock care by trained staff. Origin memory care communities also offer activities specifically designed to improve cognitive thinking and encourage social engagement. 

At Origin, we know how important it is for the community as a whole to have quality chefs. We wanted to be able to give our Executive Chefs a place to come together and learn. This year at the Origin Chef Summit 2018, we hosted Executive Chefs from across Canada for two days of education and excitement all focused on amazing food. We had celebrity guests, members of the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, Gordon Food Service Canada, and members of our very own Origin family.

Origin Active Lifestyles is proud to develop and operate innovative, active living communities throughout Canada. Part of this innovation is understanding the importance technology plays in the senior living industry, and staying up-to-date with new and emerging technology solutions, as well as surrounding ourselves with others who are passionate about improving and reshaping the way we define “senior living”.

Spring typically arrives on Canada's west coast in February with the blossoming of tulips and the average temperatures keeping above 0°C (32°F). For the rest of the country, spring will start to show its signs around April and stay until June. This time of year offers the perfect weather for seniors to get outdoors and enjoy some sunshine. Here are some spring activities in Canada that are an ideal way to spend time with the senior in your life:

There are now 5.9 million Canadian seniors over the age of 65, compared to only 5.8 million Canadians that are 14 years old and younger! Statistics Canada's 2016 census figures, which include demographic data related to age, gender, and population density, states that this is a historic increase in the number of people over 65 - a jump of 20 percent since 2011.

Soul Café is about paying attention to our individual well-being and creating space to be well together! Origin Active Lifestyle Communities wants to encourage you to look inwardly and outwardly. By being more aware of ourselves and each other, we transform the atmosphere, and all take steps towards fulfilling our potential. Some of the foundational elements of well-being that we hope to develop further are connecting with the people around you, being mindful, ongoing learning, and practicing generosity.