Seniors

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

Notice: March Program Cancellations

  • Wednesday, March 11 – Qigong, Tai Chi, Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, and Pickleball will be cancelled to accommodate for Seniors Active Living Fair.
  • Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20 – all Seniors’ daytime programs (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) will be paused due to our March Break Camp activities. Evening and weekend programs will continue as usual.

Thank you for your understanding. We look forward to seeing you at our regular programs and the Fair!

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 for seniors, featuring gentle warm-ups, simple low-impact dance moves, and a relaxing cool-down. Designed to support balance, coordination, and movement in a safe, welcoming environment. No experience is required.

Monday Sessions

  • Time: 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)

Wednesday Sessions

  • Time: 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B1 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)

Saturday Sessions

  • Time: 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
  • Location: Auditorium (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)

  • Language: English
  • Cost: Free!*

Pickleball (English, Chinese)

Stay active and have fun with pickleball. This program is perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike, offering gentle exercises, friendly games, and plenty of opportunities to connect with others.

  • Dates: Tuesdays and Wednesdays (note: no session on Wednesday, March 11 due to Seniors Active Living Fair)
  • Time: 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium (University Settlement at 23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: Free!*

Music, Arts, and Crafts Programs

Let’s Paint Together: Seniors Painting Social (Chinese, English)

Join us for fun and relaxing painting sessions. We offer self-guided practice sessions and instructor-led workshops. Our instructor-led workshops will be most suitable for beginner and beginner-intermediate artists.

We provide free space, basic painting supplies, photo references, light refreshments as well as some nice cozy music. We encourage you to bring your photo reference and painting supplies. No experience needed at all. Just bring your creativity and enjoy everyone’s company.

Instructor-Led Workshops

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

Self-Guided Practice Sessions

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

  • Self-guided Practice: Tuesdays, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B1 (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 refreshment will be provided.

Peer-Guided Crochet Circle

  • Date: Mondays
  • Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)

Instructor-Led Beginner Projects: Making Mittens

  • Date: Wednesdays
  • Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Location: Board Room (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)

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

Board Game Club (English, Chinese)

Whether you are a seasoned player or just curious to try something new, our Board Game club is all about having a good time and friendly faces!

As we are slowly adding new games to offer everyone the best experience, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our staff and tell them about your favourite games! It’s the perfect chance to laugh, connect, and enjoy some light-hearted competition.

  • Date: Mondays
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English and Chinese
  • Cost: Free!

Community Movie Day (English, Chinese)

Join us for an afternoon of classic and contemporary films from around the world.

Feel free to bring snacks, sit back and let the movie begin! No alcoholic beverages allowed.

  • Date: Wednesdays
  • Time: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • Location: Auditorium (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English and Chinese
  • Cost: Free!

Special Programs in March

Seniors Active Living Fair (English, Chinese, Farsi)

Join us for a day of connection, learning, and fun! The Seniors Active Living Fair is a free community event designed to support healthy, active, and independent living for older adults.

The event is open to everyone – whether you are a senior, caregiver, or family member of a senior resident, you are invited to join us this March for a day of connection, learning, and fun! We have programs and activities planned for you and your family. Join us at this year’s Seniors Fair!

  • Date: Wednesday, March 11, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • Location: Gymnasium (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Languages: English, Mandarin, Farsi
  • Admission: Free admission. Everyone is welcome.

Seniors Exercise and Fall Prevention Program (English)

Stay strong, improve balance, and reduce your risk of falls in this guided exercise program designed specifically for seniors. Sessions focus on strength-building, balance training, flexibility, and mobility to support safe and independent living.

Exercises are gentle, practical, and suitable for various fitness levels. Regular participation can help increase confidence, coordination, and overall physical well-being.

Tuesday Sessions (March 3 to March 24)

  • Time: Tuesdays, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: Auditorium (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)

Sunday Sessions (March 1 to March 29)

  • Time: Sundays, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B1 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English
  • Cost: Free!

Painting Workshop Series (English)

Come join us with hands-on sessions where we will explore how to mix colours to expand your painting skills and help bring harmony to your paintings. We’ll explore how to create many different colours and shades while exploring colour theory.

Things you’ll learn:

  • Colour mixing, values, etc.
  • How to create a palette of colours to represent and fine-tune your artistic style

  • Date: Every Monday (February 23 to March 30)
  • Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English
  • Cost: Free!

Learn About Nutrition & Healthy Eating (English)

Gain practical knowledge about nutrition and healthy eating habits to support overall wellness. This educational program covers balanced meals, reading food labels, and dietary considerations for older adults.

Sessions are interactive and designed to provide realistic strategies that can be easily applied in daily life to maintain energy, manage chronic conditions, and improve long-term health.

  • Date: Every Saturday (February 28 to April 4; except March 7)
  • Time: 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English
  • Cost: Free!

Workshop: Learn to Make Sourdough (English)

Discover the fundamentals of sourdough baking in this hands-on workshop. Participants will learn about starter preparation, fermentation, dough handling, and baking techniques to create homemade sourdough bread.

  • Date: Sunday, March 8
  • Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Location: Basement B2 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: 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.