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+.

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

Finance and Technology Programs

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

Smart Phone Class for Absolute Beginners (New!) (English)

A simple, step-by-step small class for seniors who are completely new to smartphones. No experience needed!

  • Explore apps and basic settings
  • Friendly, patient program support
  • Bring your smartphone and get hands-on practice
  • Date: Every Monday (Starting October 8)
  • Time: 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
  • Location: Computer Lab (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: English
  • Registration: To register, call 416-598-3444 ext. 280 or email socialservices@universitysettlement.ca

Seniors’ Beginner Technology Class (Chinese)

Are you interested in learning how to create and use email, change passwords, use online banking and more? Join our FREE, in-person Technology class to learn how to use technology to assist your daily life. These are beginner technology classes tailored to support adults 55+ to use their electronic devices. Some of our past topics include how to use e-mail/ internet browser/google map/YouTube, etc.

  • Date: Wednesdays
  • Time: 9:00 am to 10:00 am
  • Location: Computer Lab (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: Chinese
  • Registration: To register, call Yechen at 416-598-3444 ext. 264 or email yechen@universitysettlement.ca

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 am to 11:00 am
  • Language: Chinese
  • Location: Online by Zoom
  • Cost: Free for everyone 55 years and older
  • How to Register: Contact 416-598-3444 ext.264 for registration or more information

Music, Arts, and Crafts Programs

Chinese Calligraphy (New!) (Chinese, English)

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

  • Date: Tuesdays
  • Time: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
  • Location: Basement B1 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: Chinese and English
  • Cost: FREE
  • Registration: For more information or registration, contact 416‑598‑3444 ext.264 or yechen.zhang@universitysettlement.ca.

Traditional Chinese Dance (New!) (Chinese)

Immerse yourself in the grace and elegance of traditional Chinese dance! This class offers a wonderful opportunity to learn the fundamentals of traditional Chinese dance. Join us to celebrate Chinese culture, stay active, and enjoy the beauty of dance!

  • Date: Mondays
  • Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
  • Location: Basement B1 (University Settlement, 23 Grange Road, Toronto)
  • Language: Chinese
  • Cost: FREE
  • Registration: For more information or registration, contact 416‑598‑3444 ext.264 or yechen.zhang@universitysettlement.ca.

Senior Choir (Chinese)

Explore diverse musical repertoires in our weekly choir group designed for music enthusiasts. Led by a skilled instructor, members delve into classics and contemporary tunes, honing their vocal talents and fostering a vibrant community of music lovers. Join us for an enriching musical journey!

The program is offered in Mandarin.

  • Date/Time: Wednesdays (9:00 am to 12:00 pm)
  • Location: Basement Room 1 at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: Chinese
  • Cost: FREE
  • Registration: For more information or registration, contact 416‑598‑3444 ext.264 or yechen.zhang@universitysettlement.ca.

Chinese Music Appreciation Workshop (English, 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 (October 29)
  • Time: 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Online: by Zoom
  • Free!

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 am to 10:00 am
  • Location: Gymnasium at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: Free!*
  • Registration: Please email yechen.zhang@universitysettlement.ca or call 416-598-3444 ext. 264

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.

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

  • Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (10:00 am to 11:00 am)
  • Tai Chi Sword: Tuesdays (8:00 am to 9:00 am)
  • Location: Gymnasium at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: FREE!
  • Registration: Please email yechen.zhang@universitysettlement.ca or call 416-598-3444 ext. 264

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 am to 12:00 pm
  • Location: Gymnasium (University Settlement at 23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English, Chinese
  • Cost: Free!*
  • Registration: Please email yechen.zhang@universitysettlement.ca or call 416-598-3444 ext. 264

Food, Social, and Entertainment

Cooking Program (New!) (Mandarin)

Join us this fall and explore the rich and diverse flavours of East Asia in our weekly cooking program, led by a former chef with years of culinary experience. Learning authentic recipes that you can recreate at home.

Note: The program will be delivered in Chinese – Mandarin in the fall. English sessions will be delivered in Winter/Spring of 2025.

  • Date: Tuesdays
  • Time: 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
  • Location: Basement Room 2 and Kitchen at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: Mandarin
  • Cost: Free!
  • Registration required (space is limited): To sign up or to learn more, call 416-598-3444 ext. 280 or 264, or email socialservices@universitysettlement.ca.

Board Game Club (New!) (English, Chinese)

Looking for a fun way to start your week? Join our new Board Game Club! Whether you are a seasoned player or just curious to try something new, this 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: 9:00 am to 11:00 am
  • Location: Basement Room 2 at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English and Chinese
  • Cost: Free!
  • Registration: To sign up or to learn more, call 416-598-3444 ext. 280 or 264, or email socialservices@universitysettlement.ca.

Movie Friday (New!) (English, Chinese)

Join us and end your week with a cinematic treat at Movie Friday! Starting this Fall, on the last Friday of each month from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, 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: Last Friday of each month (Friday, October 25 Movie: “Going in Style”)
  • Time: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
  • Location: Gymnasium at University Settlement (23 Grange Road)
  • Language: English and Chinese
  • Cost: Free!
  • Registration: To sign up or to learn about what film will be featured this month, call 416-598-3444 ext. 280 or 264, or email socialservices@universitysettlement.ca.

Special Programs

Fall Outing to Erindale Park (New!) (Chinese and English)

Join us in our outing to Erindale Park in Mississauga where we will be viewing fall leaves and salmon run together. Registration required. Details about meetup location and time will be provided after registration.

  • Date: Thursday, October 10
  • Time: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
  • Location: 1695 Dundas St W, Mississauga (meetup location will be provided upon registration)
  • Language: English and Chinese
  • Cost: Free!
  • What You’ll Need to Bring: Your transit/metro card or ticket, water bottle, lunch, weather- and outdoor- appropriate shoes and outerwear.
  • Registration required: Call 416-598-3444 ext. 264 or email socialservices@universitysettlement.ca.

Workshop: Learning About Ontario Healthcare System (Mandarin)

  • Date: Thursday, October 3
  • Time: 10:00 am to 11:00 am
  • Location: Online via Zoom
  • Language: Mandarin
  • Cost: Free!
  • Registration required: Call 416-598-3444 ext. 264 or email socialservices@universitysettlement.ca.

Workshop: Learn About Cardiovascular Disease (Mandarin)

  • Date: Thursday, October 17
  • Time: 10:00 am to 11:00 am
  • Location: Online via Zoom
  • Language: Mandarin
  • Cost: Free!
  • Registration required: Call 416-598-3444 ext. 264 or email socialservices@universitysettlement.ca.

Back Garden Revitalization (English, Mandarin)

Join us for a refreshing and rewarding experience in our back garden!

We invite community members to help us rejuvenate our beloved community herb garden. Come get your hands dirty and learn about practical gardening skills as we work together to plant, prune, and nurture a variety of herbs. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a beginner looking to learn, this program offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, meet new people, and contribute to our community’s green space.

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.