Seniors

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

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 for July/August: Grange Park
  • 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 for July/August: Grange Park
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: FREE!

Tai Chi Sword

  • Date: Mondays
  • Time: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
  • Location for July/August: Grange Park
  • 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 for July/August: Grange Park
  • 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!*

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.

  • Date: Mondays and Wednesdays
  • Time: 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • 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 (August 25)
  • 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.

This program is currently paused for the summer.

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

  • 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.

  • Date: Mondays and Wednesdays (starts August 10)
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
  • Location: Outside at the entrance (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.

This program is currently paused for the summer.

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).

This program is currently paused for the summer.

Special Programs in August

Online Workshop: Canada’s Health Care System (Chinese)

Briefly explore Canada’s healthcare system and explain the key points that people care about most.

  • Date: Wednesday, August 12
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
  • Location: Online via Zoom
  • Language: Chinese
  • Cost: Free!

Online Workshop: Emergency Color Codes (Chinese)

Explain the different emergency colour codes, how they are used, and what to do when each code is activated.

  • Date: Wednesday, August 26
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
  • Location: Online via Zoom
  • Language: Chinese
  • Cost: Free!

Outing: Summer City Walk — Explore Indigenous (Chinese)

Join us for a guided walk through Toronto Inukshuk Park and Coronation Park.

  • Date: Thursday, August 13
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: Meet up time and location will be shared with successfully registered participants
  • Language: Chinese
  • Cost: Free!

Outing: Summer City Walk — Chester Hill Lookout (Chinese)

Let’s go to the best natural hill lookout point in Toronto.

  • Date: Thursday, August 27
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: Meet up time and location will be shared with successfully registered participants
  • Language: Chinese
  • 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.