GenWell Weekends
for Seniors
Twice a year, in spring and fall, GenWell Weekend invites Canadians to pause, reach out, and reconnect with the people who matter most.​
For older adults, caregivers, and the organizations that serve them, these weekends are more than an event, they’re your excuse, reminder, & permission to get connected with the people you’ve been meaning to reach out to, but just haven't made the time to make it happen.
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What are we asking?
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Social health isn’t a “nice-to-have.” It’s as important as physical and mental health, and GenWell Weekend is a simple way to make it a priority. Whether you’re an older adult, a caregiver, or an organization, your participation helps create a culture where no one has to experience aging alone.
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Why GenWell Weekend matters for older adults
Loneliness and isolation are not just emotional experiences; they’re health risks.
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39% of Canadians aged 65+ say they feel lonely at least some of the time.
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For older adults living with heart failure, loneliness is linked to a 68% higher hospitalization risk and 57% more emergency visits.
Connection supports brain health, lowers stress, boosts mood, and even strengthens the immune system. GenWell Weekend is a simple, powerful way to start building those protective connections, or to deepen the ones you already have.
Why GenWell Weekend Matters for Caregivers
and Families
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When older adults feel connected, it benefits the whole circle of care. Strong relationships:
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Support emotional resilience for both the person and their caregivers
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Reduce caregiver burnout
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Encourage independence and engagement in daily life
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GenWell Weekend can be your reminder to set aside time for a visit, phone call, shared meal, or favourite activity together.
Why GenWell Weekend Matters for Organizations serving older adults
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Whether you’re a community centre, faith group, housing provider, long-term care home, or seniors’ service agency, GenWell Weekend is an opportunity to:
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Host intergenerational events and community gatherings
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Facilitate peer-to-peer activities and small group meet-ups
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Integrate connection-focused programming into your regular schedule
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Partner with other local groups to expand opportunities for engagement
Ideas to connect
Get to Know Us
Friday:
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Share information with staff, residents, and clients about the importance of connection and the health risks of isolation.
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Offer a short workshop, coffee chat, or group discussion to inspire action for the weekend.
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Saturday & Sunday:
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Encourage and support older adults to reach out to family, friends, and neighbours.
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Organize or promote low-barrier activities like walking clubs, game nights, craft circles, or community meals.
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Encourage caregivers and family members to join in.
