Seniors

We provide a range of free counselling, programs and services specifically designed for older adults 55+.

Notice: May Holiday Closure on May 18

There will be no senior programming on Monday, May 18 (Victoria Day) due to holiday closure. Regular programming will resume on Tuesday, May 19.

Staying active and engaged. Improving the quality of daily life.

We provide a range of free counselling, programs and services specifically designed for older adults (55+ years old).

Services and Counselling

Daily Life Assistance

If you’re 55 or older, we’re here to help you:

  • Understand the services and supports available to make your life easier
  • Navigate the application process for Old Age Security and other income supports
  • Prepare Toronto Community Housing Annual Rent Renewals
  • Obtain government documents, including Ontario Health Card, Social Insurance Number, Driver’s License, Marriage and Birth Certificates
  • Access other needed services
  • File your Income Tax
  • Complete forms

We provide:

  • Translation of documents
  • Information and referrals to other services, e.g., health, legal, financial

To speak with a Senior Services Worker, please contact:

Simon Young, Senior Services Worker
(English / Cantonese)
seniors@universitysettlement.ca
(416) 598-3444 ext. 240 or (647) 395-7294

Tax Clinics

We offer one-on-one income tax filing services, by appointment only. To make an appointment, please contact:

Simon Young, Senior Services Worker
(English / Cantonese)
seniors@universitysettlement.ca
(416) 598-3444 ext. 240 or (647) 395-7294

Exercise and Physical Activities

Tai Chi Class (English, Chinese)

A gentle form of martial arts known for its health benefits and meditative properties. Our classes are designed for seniors of all different fitness levels. Whether you’re seeking a new form of physical exercise or a way to meet new friends.

  • Date: Mondays to Fridays
  • Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: Free!*

Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan and Tai Chi Sword Classes (English, Chinese)

Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan and Tai Chi Sword are unique martial arts based on traditional Tai Chi forms that combine elements of dance and other styles of martial arts. It is a great way to exercise your mind and body while learning about this beautiful and elegant Chinese martial art practice.

Basic knowledge and previous experience in Tai Chi are necessary for this class.

Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan

  • Date: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: FREE!

Tai Chi Sword

  • Date: Mondays
  • Time: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: FREE!

Qigong (English, Chinese)

Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines gentle movements, breathing techniques, and meditation to balance the body’s energy. Join us in this new class and improve your overall well-being in a low-impact, relaxing way. No prior experience needed!

  • Date: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
  • Time: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: Free!*

Line Dancing (English, Chinese)

Step into the world of Line Dancing, a fun way to get moving and meet new friends! Our line dancing classes welcome dancers of all skill levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. Come join us on Thursdays!

  • Date: Thursdays
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium (University Settlement at 23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: Free!*

Zumba (English)

A fun and beginner-friendly Zumba class adapted for older adults and seniors, featuring gentle warm-ups, simple low-impact dance movements, and a relaxing cool-down. Designed to support balance, coordination, and movement in a safe, welcoming environment. No experience is required. Registration is needed.

  • Mondays (May 4 to June 29): 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
  • Wednesdays (May 6 to June 24): 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

  • Location: Gymnasium (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English
  • Cost: Free!*

Pickleball (English, Chinese)

Join us in our free pickleball program every Tuesday and Wednesday. This program is perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike, offering gentle exercises, friendly games, and plenty of opportunities to connect with others.

This program is open to individuals aged 55 and above. Registration is required.

  • Tuesday sessions: 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday sessions: 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium (University Settlement at 23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: Free!*

Seniors’ Chair Exercise (English)

Designed for older adults of all fitness levels, this low-impact class offers guided movements that can be done safely from a seated position. Improve mobility, build strength, and boost overall well-being in a supportive and welcoming environment.

No prior experience required. Registration is needed.

  • Date: Tuesdays (May 5 to June 30)
  • Time: 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: Auditorium (University Settlement at 23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English
  • Cost: Free!*

Music, Arts, and Crafts Programs

Chinese Music Appreciation Workshop (Chinese)

Want to learn how to appreciate Chinese music? Our monthly workshop series will help you analyze music with examples from a piece of chosen music or song.

This workshop occurs once per month. The date changes each month – register online to be notified of upcoming workshop dates.

  • Date: Last Tuesday of every month (May 26)
  • Time: 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
  • Language: Chinese
  • Online: by Zoom
  • Free!

Paint Together (Chinese, English)

Join us for fun and relaxing acrylic painting sessions. We offer self-guided practice and instructor-led still life sessions.

We provide supplies, references, light refreshments as well as some nice cozy music. No experience required. Registration is required.

Self-Guided Practice Sessions

  • Date: Tuesdays (May 5 to June 30)
  • Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 and B1 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English and Chinese
  • Free!

Instructor-Led Still Life Painting Sessions

  • Date: Mondays (May 4 to June 29)
  • Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 and B1 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English and Chinese
  • Free!

Chinese Calligraphy (Chinese, English)

Practice the beauty and tradition of Chinese calligraphy. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our calligraphy practice sessions offer a peaceful and enriching space for you to engage in this beautiful art of writing.

Instructor-Led Class

  • Date: Thursdays (May 7 to June 25)
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
  • Location: B2 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: Chinese
  • Cost: Free!

Self-Guided Practice

  • Date: Tuesdays
  • Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Board Room (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: Chinese and English
  • Cost: Free!

Crocheting (Chinese, English)

Join us for a relaxing and creative crocheting circle where you learn and practice new skills, share patterns, and work on your own projects. Perfect for beginners and experienced crocheters. Material and light refreshments will be provided. Space is limited, and registration is needed.

Due to limited capacity, participants may register for one session only. Please select the session that works best for you.

Monday Session

  • Date: Mondays (May 11 to June 29)
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B1 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)

Wednesday Session

  • Date: Wednesdays (May 6 to June 24)
  • Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)

  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: FREE

Technology Programs

One-on-One Technology Assistance (English, Chinese)

We offer personalized one-on-one support to help older adults feel more confident using smartphones, tablets, and everyday online services.

  • Dates: Mondays
  • Time: 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Location: Computer Lab (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English and Chinese

Seniors’ Digital Connect – Intermediate Level (Chinese)

Seniors’ Digital Connect is a program dedicated to fostering seniors’ autonomy and enhancing their connectivity by empowering with the skills needed to navigate their daily electronic devices. Tailored for adults aged 55 and above, the program delivers a range of intermediate to advanced technology classes. Past topics include online shopping, simple photo-editing on smartphone, etc.

  • Dates: Fridays
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
  • Language: Chinese
  • Location: Online by Zoom
  • Cost: Free for everyone 55 years and older

Food, Social, and Entertainment

Karaoke (English, Chinese)

Sing your heart out and connect with others through singing! Our Karaoke program invites seniors to come together, share their favourite songs, and enjoy an uplift afternoon of fun, laughter, and community. No experience needed – just bring your voice and enthusiasm. Space is limited, please register.

The program is offered on Fridays (Chinese karaoke only) and Tuesdays (Chinese and English karaoke).

  • Chinese Karaoke: Fridays, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • All Languages Karaoke: Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B1 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: Chinese
  • Cost: Free!

Mahjong and Cards (English, Chinese)

Enjoy a welcoming and social space with our Mahjong and Cards program. Whether you’re an experienced player or just getting started, participants can play, learn, and connect with others in a relaxed environment.

  • Monday sessions: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Thursday session (May only): 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English and Chinese
  • Cost: Free!

Special Programs in May

Health Workshop: Lowering the Risk of Dementia (Chinese, English)

Topics include maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, mental stimulation, and social engagement. We will also learn about early warning signs, brain health habits, and ways to support cognitive well-being in daily life, the workshop aims to manage our long-term brain health.

  • Date: Monday, May 25
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
  • Location: Online via Zoom (link will be shared closer to the date)
  • Language: Chinese, English
  • Cost: Free!

Links2Wellbeing Project:
Social Prescribing for Older Adults

Calling all primary care providers!

Links2Wellbeing is a pathway for primary care providers to link older adults to social and recreational opportunities to promote their health and wellbeing. Learn how Links2Wellbeing works in your community and how your healthcare team and your patients can benefit from this project.