There are many groups which are more at risk if they are infected with COVID-19, including people with chronic conditions, those who are immunocompromised, and more.
But one group has been affected by the virus more than most: seniors.
In Durham Region, 183 residents have died from COVID-19. Of that group, 153 were long-term care or retirement home residents.
As a group, seniors are often looking to find ways to keep active both physically and mentally.
However, as the pandemic grows and cases continue to spread, seniors are being forced to stay home in order to protect themselves.
Normally, there are several options for seniors to keep sharp and occupied, such as going to the mall to meet friends and socialize, going to the park for exercise, volunteer work, and more.
There was also the option of attending senior’s centres, such as Oshawa Seniors Community Centre (OSCC 55+), Whitby Seniors’ Activity Centre, or the South Pickering Senior Citizens Club.
However, with COVID-19 those options became unavailable. Now with the second wave, restrictions are tightening once again.
According to OSCC 55+’s website, there are a number of activities still available for seniors online hosted by the organization.
Seniors are able to attend the Yoga Chair program, where yoga can be done without even needing to leave the chair; the Indigenous Book Club, where books written by Indigenous authors are available; or the Dance Fusion program, where there’s 20 minutes of dance fit cardio, followed by 40 minutes of light weight training and stretching.
These are only a few of the activities seniors can do online with OSCC 55+. There are also a number of programs which aim to help seniors stay connected, such as the Telephone Outreach Program, or Social Connecting through Facebook.
They also have grocery delivery programs, and COVID-19 resources available for those who need it.
The Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club has cancelled all activities at the moment, but are still sharing important information online.
These include a Seniors Social Check-in Project, where seniors can receive a phone call from a staff member from the Town of Uxbridge encouraging virtual social interaction, as opposed to seeing one another physically.
Another senior centre still offering services in Durham is the Whitby Seniors’ Activity Centre. Some events held there include skating, swimming, and more.
While a number of seniors centres around Durham have closed and are not offering services during the pandemic, they all have the goal of keeping seniors safe.
