Celebrating Seniors: The Heart of Alberta's Communities

We all deserve to age well with dignity, independence, and connection, while participating in our communities and being able to give of ourselves in ways that bring meaning and purpose. Seniors in Alberta should have access to what they need to age in the communities they love, surrounded by people they care about.  

Healthy Aging Alberta (HAA) and the Family & Community Support Services Association of Alberta (FCSSAA) are proud to work together to champion healthy aging in community. 

This Seniors’ Week, we celebrate older adults in all their diversity—grandparents, parents, friends, neighbours, volunteers, leaders, and mentors—who continue to shape our province with wisdom, compassion and resilience. 

“Our communities simply wouldn’t be what they are today without the contributions of older adults,” says Kayla Blanchette, President of the Board of Directors for FCSSAA. “From running community programs to preparing meals, seniors are essential to the success of many FCSS initiatives across the province. In many cases, these programs couldn’t run without their support, and seniors often say being involved gives them a sense of purpose in their communities. That’s what makes it a win-win.” 

But we also recognize that older adults matter, not only because of what they contribute, but also because of who they are. As Karen McDonald, Provincial Director and Chair of the Community Leadership Council of HAA, reminds us: 

“There’s a common myth that seniors’ value is tied only to their past accomplishments or current contributions. But older adults are a vital part of the social fabric of our communities; whether they’re volunteering, sharing stories around the kitchen table or simply being present. They offer perspective, connection and lived experience that enriches our lives.” 

Community-based seniors serving (CBSS) organizations, including senior centres play a powerful role in fostering that connection. For many older adults, these centres act as a “third place,” a space beyond home and work where they feel a sense of belonging, purpose, and community. Many of these organizations are not only senior-focused but also senior-led. 

“Senior centres are a grassroots, community-led response to the risk of isolation,” adds Karen. “They help fulfill the very social determinants that allow people to age well.” 

Together, we are proud of the growing and meaningful partnership between Healthy Aging Alberta and FCSSAA, rooted in a shared commitment to community-led development and aging well in place. 

As we mark Seniors’ Week, we encourage everyone to not only show appreciation, but also to think critically about how our communities can truly be inclusive of all older adults throughout the year. Whether through policy, program design, or everyday interactions, building healthy, age-inclusive communities means recognizing aging as something we all share, ensuring every generation is included and valued. 

We encourage you to read our blog Celebrating Seniors: The Heart of Alberta’s Communities to learn more about how seniors shape our communities. (The link will be live as of June 3rd at 10 a.m. MDT)

Signed, 

Kayla Blanchette, President, Board of Directors, FCSSAA 

Karen McDonald, Provincial Director and Chair of the Community Leadership Council, HAA