Aging & Living Well - Whistler Mature Action Community

Living well in Whistler as a senior resident aged 55 and over involves staying active and engaged in fitness activities tailored to their abilities and interests. Engaging in arts and cultural events allows for creative expression and fosters a sense of connection to the community. Participating in sports, whether as a spectator or a participant, offers opportunities for social interaction and physical activity. Embracing the vibrant culture of Whistler through events, festivals, and local attractions enriches the senior experience in the community. We are all aging. Whistlerites over 55+ don’t consider themselves old. We may all think we are invincible but almost all of us will develop some sort of health concern. Whistler is a healthier population than Squamish or Pemberton. The preliminary RMOW’s Age-Friendly taskforce survey sees that on the whole Whistler seniors enjoy good health with low numbers of chronic diseases. The International Council on Active Ageing speaks about 7 dimensions of healthy ageing for wellness. They are: emotional, physical, financial, intellectual, environmental, spiritual, social and professional health. Below are links to information on Living and Aging Well along with activities and events available in Whistler. MAC hopes to grow this list with future updates.

Aging and Living Well

Helpful Links and Activities and Events in Whistler to promote the health of our members.

Healthy Aging

People are living longer than ever before. Learn tips for staying healthy and meeting your health needs as you age.

Learn how to plan for a healthy life in the coming decade and improve your experience of getting older.

Active Aging

The evidence is clear. Older adults can live longer, healthier lives by staying socially connected, increasing their levels of physical activity, eating in a healthy way, taking steps to minimize their risks for falls, and refraining from smoking.

Active aging is about more than physical activity. Active aging also means being involved in your community and making healthy lifestyle choices.

Healthy Eating and Physical Activity

Healthy eating and physical activity promotes and supports social, physical, and mental well-being for everyone, at all ages and stages of life. Learn more about taking care of yourself and making your health a priority while you investigate different topics and use forms and tools provided to help achieve your physical activity and healthy eating goals.

B.C. Seniors Guide

The BC Seniors’ Guide is a book-style compilation of information and resources to help us all plan for and live a healthy lifestyle as we age. It includes information on provincial and federal programs, with sections on benefits, health, lifestyle, housing, transportation, finances, safety and security, and other services. The guide is available in English, French, Chinese, Punjabi, Vietnamese, Korean, Farsi, Tagalog and Hindi.

Senior Wellness Guide

Educational guide for seniors on healthy aging, Alzheimer’s, caregiving, medication and device complications, nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Published by Drug Watch. US publication.

Council Of Senior Citizens' Organization (COSCO)

Many issues require the active involvement of seniors. COSCO’s purpose is to assemble, co-ordinate and advance proposals and resolutions concerned with the welfare of elder citizens, and submit them to the appropriate government bodies; and to advance the social and physical welfare of all elder citizens in the province of British Columbia.

Plan With Seniors, Not For Them! Learn more about advocacy for seniors.

International Council on Active Aging

International Council on Active Aging®, an association that leads, connects and defines the active-aging industry, supports organizations and professionals that develop wellness environments and services for adults over 50. Many wellness resources.

Learn what wellness is.

Health and Safety Information

Health and Safety - Province of British Columbia

Topics include: Health Care Programs and Services, Disease and Injury: Care and Prevention, Protection from Elder Abuse and Neglect, Safety at Home, Medication Safety, and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness.

Health and safety are key components of an independent and active lifestyle for seniors.

SeniorsSafety BC

Welcome to SeniorsSafety BC. This senior abuse resource hub is created to inform, empower and provide important resources for British Columbia seniors to enable them to migrate out of abuse towards their feeling safe and strong.

Approximately 1 in 6 people aged 60 years or older experienced some form of abuse in community settings and this is predicted to increase as countries experience rapidly aging populations.

Avoiding Frauds and Scams

Sadly, many seniors are the targets of fraud and scams. You may not be able to recover funds lost, so the best defense is to learn about common types of scams and fraud and avoid becoming a victim.

Adult/Elder Abuse

Learn about the different types of abuse that may affect a senior such a financial, physical or psychological.

Elder abuse commonly refers to adult abuse where the target is a senior or older adult. An abuser is someone who likely to be someone known to the abused older person like a friend, family member, or caregiver.

Loneliness and Isolation

Fighting Isolation

Topics include: What is loneliness? Causes of loneliness & isolation. Possible reasons why we self-isolate. Boredom is our enemy. Solutions for fighting isolation. Identify your social supports. Ways to reduce loneliness. Animal friends. When family & friends are far away.

We are social animals who thrive on stimulation

Social isolation of seniors - Volume 1: Understanding the issue and finding solutions

For seniors to continue and even expand their participation in society they need to remain healthy and engaged in their communities. However, research shows that an estimated 30% of Canadian seniors are at risk of becoming socially isolated. According to the International Federation on Ageing, “the number one emerging issue facing seniors in Canada is keeping older people socially connected and active. Social isolation and exclusion is related to serious negative health effects and reduced quality of life for seniors.

Dementia Information

Alzheimer Society

The most comprehensive site for information about dementia.

Alzheimer's Association

Caregivers for Alzheimer’s and dementia face special challenges. Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia often involves a team of people. Whether you provide daily caregiving, participate in decision making, or simply care about a person with the disease — we have resources to help.

Caregiver support

Forward with Dementia

Forward with Dementia is a place to find hope, have your questions answered, learn from others, and discover strategies to help you navigate your own path with dementia.

A guide to living with dementia

Caregiver Benefits

Who is a caregiver, types of caregiver benefits and more information.

Losing Us-A Dementia Caregiver’s Journey by Rosella M. Leslie

Losing Us: A Dementia Caregiver’s Journey, is a candid, compassionate and sometimes humorous memoir of Author Rosella Leslie’s heartbreaking struggles and triumphs during her twelve years as her husband’s primary caregiver. It is also an informal guide to dementia caregiving, including links to helpful resources for caregivers, their friends, families and communities.

The 36-Hour Day - A family guide to caring for people who have Alzheimer disease, other dementias and memory loss" by Nancy L. Mace, MA and Peter V. Rabins, MD, MPH

When someone in your family suffers from Alzheimer disease or other related memory loss diseases, both you and your loved one face immense challenges. For over thirty years, this book has been the trusted bible for families affected by dementia disorders. Now completely revised and updated, this guide features the latest information on the causes of dementia, managing the early stages of dementia, the prevention of dementia, and finding appropriate living arrangements for the person who has dementia when home care is no longer an option.

British Columbia Caregiver Resources

Family Caregivers of BC

FCBC supports caregivers by providing access to information, education and supports so that caregivers feel more confident and successful in their important role. We understand the common feelings of isolation, grief, compassion, joy, and exhaustion faced by many family and friend caregivers.

Dementia: Support for Caregivers

Taking care of a loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia can be a difficult, stressful, and tiring job. It affects the caregiver’s health and ability to rest and can be a source of stress and conflict for the entire household. If you are a caregiver, you can benefit by learning as much as you can and taking care of yourself. Learn all you can about the type of dementia your loved one has and what the future may bring.

Healthy Eating for Aging Adults

Healthy Eating and Healthy Aging for Adults

By eating well, you keep your bones and muscles strong, build a healthy immune system, prevent chronic disease and illness and manage health conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Healthy eating is about the foods you eat and more. It’s about preparing and enjoying food with others, sharing food traditions and eating mindfully. Learn more.

Eating well and being active can help you stay healthy and strong as you age.

Healthy Eating for Seniors Handbook

The Healthy Eating for Seniors handbook includes recipes, menu plans, and information on good nutrition. The handbook is available in English and French and has also been culturally adapted and translated into Chinese and Punjabi.

The Senior Chef - Eating for One or Two

Recipes in the Senior Chef have been selected so that you may be assured of serving nutritious, economical and easy to prepare meals. Suggestions for modifying many of the recipes have also been made. Be sure to look for and try some of these ideas. Doing this will increase the variety of dishes you can make.

Healthy eating, nutrition, and diet

A US resource but contains a lot of useful, practical information. Topics covered here are 5 Tips for Choosing Healthier Foods as You Age; Diet and Exercise: Choices Today for a Healthier Tomorrow; Healthy Eating and Alzheimer’s Disease; Healthy Eating As You Age: Know Your Food Groups; Healthy Meal Planning: Tips for Older Adults; How Much Should I Eat? Quantity and Quality; Maintaining a Healthy Weight and Overcoming Roadblocks to Healthy Eating.

Healthy eating is a cornerstone of healthy aging.

Alcohol and Aging – BC Ministry of Health

To learn about drinking guidelines and the effects of alcohol consumption and aging, please visit:

Exercise and Physical Activity

Physical activity tips for older adults (65 years and older)

Physical activity plays an important role in your health, well-being and quality of life. These tips will help you improve and maintain your health by being physically active every day.

Tips to Get Active.

Exercise and physical activity

Physical activity is an important part of healthy aging. Check out these articles from the US National Institute on Aging for the latest on how exercise and physical activity can help you stay healthy as you age. Find tips on how to fit exercise into your daily life safely and get motivated to get moving!

Exercise is the Key to Healthy Aging

Physical Activity for Older Adults

If you are 65 or older, you need aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and balance activities each week. You can add regular physical activity into your life in a variety of ways. People benefit from physical activity throughout life, including as they age. Read and learn more.

Senior Sleep Guide – A Safe Sleeping Guide for Seniors

Topics include: What Changes With Sleep as We Get older? Why Does Sleep Matter for Seniors? Is Sleep Quality More Important Than Hours Slept? How Can Seniors Sleep Better? How to Exercise to Improve Sleep for Seniors. Creating a Pleasant Sleep Environment. Talking Therapy for Sleep Problems in Seniors. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for sleep problems. Helpful Sleep Products for Seniors.

Insomnia is a common problem for seniors

Activity and Events in Whistler

Community Events

Activate & Connect

Monthly events. Space to gather and make connections. Free drop-in creative and physical activities. Listen to guest speakers on topics related to health, nutrition, finance, law, etc.

Activities and Events for 55+

Whistler Community Events

Whistler is home to a unique community of people who live, work and play here all year round. Community events are the perfect place for residents and visitors to make new friends, learn more about our town and support local businesses, arts and charities. Everyone is welcome!

Learn about upcoming events in Whistler

Whistler Farmer's Market

The Whistler Farmers’ Market invites the community and visitors to connect with local makers and growers and enjoy the welcoming vibe of the market.

Visit The Market On Sundays & Select Saturdays At the Upper Village Stroll

Arts & Culture

Audain Museum

The Audain Art Museum is a transformative experience for appreciating the art of British Columbia. Unique and evolving exhibitions from Canada and around the world distinguish what they do. Highlights include hereditary Haida Chief James Hart’s The Dance Screen (The Scream Too), an exceptional collection of historical and contemporary Indigenous masks, the largest permanent display of paintings by Emily Carr, and key examples of the Vancouver photo conceptualism movement. In addition, the Museum hosts dynamic exhibitions from around the world.

Whistler Museum & Archives Society

The Museum’s mission is to collect, preserve, document and share the natural history and human stories of mountain life – focusing on Whistler – and provide a forum for stimulating exhibitions and programs that deepen an understanding of past choices and future possibilities. The Whistler Museum tells Whistler’s stories from early fun-loving summer lodge operators, to the creation of Whistler Blackcomb, to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games and beyond.

The Whistler Museum is a renowned centre for the celebration of mountain life.

Whistler Arts Council

Check out what is happening with The Whistler Arts Council (WAC). Their mandate is to build and integrate the arts into the fabric of the community of the Resort Municipality of Whistler and the surrounding areas.

The Whistler Arts Council advocates for the arts, local artists and the local community

Squamish Lilwat Cultural Center

The SLCC in Whistler offers a rich experience for visitors, showcasing both permanent and temporary exhibitions that delve into the diverse history, traditions, and practices of the Squamish and Lil’wat peoples. From ancient times to modern-day expressions, these exhibits provide insight into the cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore these exhibits at their own pace or join daily guided tours to gain deeper insights.

The heart of Whistler’s authentic Indigenous experience – a First Nations Museum, Art Gallery and Gift Shop, and Thunderbird Café

Whistler Valley Quilters Guild

The Whistler Valley Quilters’ Guild is proud to be a part of Whistler’s vibrant arts and culture scene. A group of just over 40 members who are involved in Whistler’s community, volunteer at events and engage with local residents and visitors, sharing their knowledge about quilting.

A part of Whistler's Vibrant Arts & Culture scene since 1993

Whistler Writing Society

Dedicated to fostering literary arts, it provides a platform for local writers to develop their craft and hosts events for writers and readers. Notably, the society initiated the Whistler Writers Festival in 2002, showcasing local, regional, and internationally recognized Canadian writers over the past two decades.

The Whistler Writing Society, founded in 2001 and officially established as a non-profit organization in 2005 and a charitable organization in 2016, boasts over 150 members from the Sea to Sky Corridor.

Sports & Fitness

Quattro Aquatic Fitness

Aquatic Fitness offers Fitness Classes, Rehabilitation Classes and Swimming Lessons, both at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler and Meadow Park. Owner, Wilma Weidner, rehabilitated from a knee injury with much help from aquatic exercises. Her complete recovery inspired Wilma to assist people with past or recent injuries, osteo-arthritis or joint disorders through a program in the water. Wilma has acquired extensive training and is qualified to design personalized programs to suit individual and group needs.

Quattro Aquatic Fitness offers Vertical Water Training Sessions, using the Charlene Kopansky Method, to strengthen muscles and core with little or no impact on the joints.

WORCA

Online resource for everything biking in Whistler. WORCA is always looking for members and volunteers and is a great way to get to know the local community. WORCA brings the local community together through weekly Toonie Rides, special events and volunteer trail days/nights.

WORCA is a non-profit trail advocacy organization that maintains multi-use trails in Whistler, provides youth camps and runs mountain bike events.

Whistler Section of the Alpine Club of Canada

Whether you like to climb cliffs, frozen waterfalls, mountains, or hike, backcountry ski or perhaps have an interest in preserving the mountain environment, we encourage you to join us. We are a club suitable for members of all ages and abilities. If doesn’t matter if you are a new to mountain sports or if you have many years of experience. We are welcoming, supportive, and love meeting new people.

The Whistler Section is one of the regional sections that make up the Alpine Club of Canada, Canada’s national mountaineering organization.

Whistler Senior Ski Team

The Senior Ski Team (SST) organizes weekly ski groups, facilitates travel trips, and fosters camaraderie through ski groups, catering specifically to older adults passionate about skiing.

Ski improvement on Whistler Blackcomb for skiers 55 to 99.

Meadow Park Sports Centre

Meadow Park offers a range of fitness classes, sports activities, and wellness programs tailored to meet the needs and interests of older adults who are still active and seeking to maintain their health and fitness.

Meadow Park Sports Centre is a large world-class, award-winning multi-purpose recreational facility. Whether you’re a family, senior, athlete, or you simply want to explore on your own, you’ll find many ways to play and stay active.

Whistler Sailing Club

Founded in 2008, Whistler Sailing is a local nonprofit sailing association formed by a group of dinghy sailors looking to bring the sport of sailing to the community of Whistler. Through the passion of dedicated volunteers and an incredible team of people, the association has grown into a fully operational sailing school offering summer sailing programs for kids and youth, and adult programming including learn to sail and race nights.

Whether you are just starting your sailing journey or a seasoned sailor, Whistler Sailing is here to help you meet your goals.

Whistler Nordic Ski Club

Whistler Nordics have a membership base of approx. 280 cross country skiers of all ages, abilities, and interests. Club programs and activities are largely organized and delivered by volunteers and coaches in two locations: Whistler Olympic Park and Callaghan Country in the Callaghan Valley and Lost Lake in the heart of Whistler.

The Whistler Nordics Ski Club is a non-profit cross country ski club formed to help make cross country skiing available to all members of the community.