Seniors’ Month celebrations underway across Rideau Lakes, Westport and area

June is Seniors’ Month in Ontario, a time dedicated to recognizing the contributions, wisdom and ongoing impact of older adults in our communities. The 2026 provincial theme, “Ontario Seniors – Let’s Get Moving,” highlights programs and initiatives that promote wellness, social engagement and lifelong learning. Across Rideau Lakes, Leeds and the Thousand Islands, Westport and surrounding areas, organizations are stepping forward with events and resources to celebrate and support seniors throughout the month.

The Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands will celebrate Seniors’ Month on June 11 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lansdowne Community Hall, 1 Jessie Street. Attendees can look forward to music, light refreshments, snacks and social time, along with welcome remarks from local dignitaries. A special award announcement of the TLTI Ontario Senior of the Year will be made during the event. Everyone is welcome to attend and help honour the achievements and lasting contributions of seniors throughout the township.

The Township of Rideau Lakes will once again host its popular Annual Seniors Picnic on June 23, 2026, at the Delta Lower Beverley Park pavilion. The event features live musical entertainment, a full meal and social time with friends, neighbours and community members. The cost is $12 per person, and pre-registration is required by June 15 at 4 p.m. via email to lstafford@rideaulakes.ca. This long-running tradition brings together seniors from across the township for a day of connection, celebration and community spirit.

In the spirit of this year’s theme, it is helpful to highlight area organizations that continue to offer programs that keep seniors active, connected and supported. Westport Senior Living (WSL) is committed to enhancing the quality of life for older adults in the Westport area. Its primary objectives are to foster independence and social connections, as well as provide learning opportunities and facilitate awareness of and access to beneficial services and resources. To learn more, see www.wslinfo.ca.

The other group in Westport, the Westport and Area Seniors Association (WASA), not to be confused with WSL, is “a group of Westport and area seniors who enjoy getting together once a month for a nice lunch at The Cove in Westport.” Members can expect to “enjoy great conversation, good food, an informational presentation or musical performance, and often lots of laughs during meetings.”

WASA also partners with local businesses that very generously offer 10% off to WASA members who carry and show a current membership card. Their active membership ensures a steady lineup of events that, above all, encourage connection. This month, for instance, Diana Kemp, WASA president, says members will have the opportunity to hear from Charlotte Gray, award-winning author, popular historian and biographer. Diana says that WASA is also committed to bringing recommendations to members on various local services, community engagement, entertainment, educational and volunteer opportunities. She notes that “the WASA executive is really looking forward to serving our members for the 2026/27 year. We encourage members to offer speaker suggestions and ideas on how we can continue to be engaged and entertained while having fun and learning together. Our goals are to support and foster a community of caring and sharing for one another in an engaging, relaxed and thriving environment.”

With Diana’s background in nursing leadership, specializing in quality, patient safety, geriatrics and senior fitness, she is fully committed to programming that supports quality of life and healthy living for seniors. Follow Facebook.com/groups/2705797989447340 (WASA) online to stay up to date with their upcoming events.

The Beverley Seniors Group in Delta is a long-standing organization that offers social gatherings, community meals and activities for seniors in the area. It remains a friendly and welcoming hub for older adults looking to stay engaged. Contact Pat Phillips at 613-928-2712 for more information.

The Lansdowne Seniors Group meets every Wednesday afternoon for euchre and snacks, with the fourth week of each month designated as a potluck meeting. President Peter Lamour says the group also has a few planned excursions each year, such as attending musical events at the Brockville Arts Centre or plays at the Thousand Islands Playhouse in Gananoque. Taking a break during July, August and December, the group is currently at capacity, says Peter.

There is clearly room for expansion in the region for additional seniors’ groups, especially as existing organizations are consistently reaching capacity and drawing strong participation. Our rural communities are well-positioned to build on this momentum and offer even more opportunities for connection and engagement, given the demand.

Beyond social events, several regional organizations provide essential support to seniors at all stages of life. Senior Support Services – LLG offers transportation, Meals on Wheels, social programs, caregiver support and more. Their upcoming Big Money Bingos at Brockville Speedway on June 30, July 28 and August 25 are a great way to have fun while supporting local senior services. Check out www.seniorssupportllg.ca for more information about their available programming.Ontario residents can also find a comprehensive directory of programs, services and supports available across the province, from housing and financial assistance to health services and social programs, at www.211Ontario.ca. Information for seniors can be found under the Older Adults tab on the website.

A Seniors Safety Line (1-866-299-1011) is available 24/7, 362 days a year. This confidential line connects seniors with trained counsellors who can provide support, information and referrals related to safety concerns and elder abuse.

Home and Community Care Support Services – LINH provides a wide range of health care services for individuals facing challenges related to age, illness, injury or disability. Supports include in-home nursing, therapy, personal care and community resources. Call 1-800-538-0520 or visit www.healthcareathome.ca for more details.

The Advocacy Centre for the Elderly (ACE) offers legal services to low-income seniors. It provides public legal education on issues affecting older adults, including housing, long-term care and elder rights.

Locally, Country Roads Community Health Centre (CRCHC) runs a wide variety of free, low-cost or subsidized programs, including Senior Fit, chronic disease management, wellness workshops and social programs that encourage healthy, active living.

With events, programs and supports available throughout June and all year long, residents are encouraged to participate, stay connected and truly embrace their senior years. In honour of Seniors’ Month, take a moment to thank a senior in your community who has helped shape your village, strengthened a local organization or made a meaningful difference in your life.