Real stories, real energy: Part 1 – Vaughan’s senior residents redefine what aging looks like
Across Vaughan, getting older doesn’t mean slowing down – it often means trying something new, staying curious and finding fresh ways to connect. Every story reflects a different path, yet they all share a sense of energy, purpose and openness to what comes next.
Through the City’s #AgelessAndUnstoppable campaign, those experiences come to life in a very real way. Residents like Eva, Ken, Patricia, Ash, Carmen and others share honest moments that challenge outdated assumptions about aging.
Some speak directly to the idea that life suddenly becomes quiet with age. One voice puts it simply: “People think older adults just stay home, but that’s not how we live.” Others describe this stage as something unexpectedly exciting. “It feels like a whole new chapter opens, and there’s still so much to explore,” another resident explains. Activities vary widely depending on interests and personality. Pickleball, aquafit, cycling, dance and table games are just a few of the ways people choose to stay involved and energized. A common thread runs beneath those choices. “Growing doesn’t stop just because you get older – enjoy life and keep going,” one participant shares.
Meet Antonio
For older adult, Antonio Salamone, that mindset plays out through regular visits to Chancellor Community Centre. Time spent in fitness programs keeps him moving while also giving him a sense of familiarity and belonging.
Friendships built along the way have become just as meaningful as the activity itself. Participation in clubs and classes has even opened the door to leadership opportunities within the community.
Similar experiences show up in many forms across the city. Whether it’s sharing a laugh after a workout or checking in on familiar faces each week, those moments help build confidence and connection.
Meet Thakor
For Thakor Vansh, staying engaged has always meant giving back. After a long career with IBM Canada, he shifted his focus toward volunteering, teaching computer skills to older adults and helping newcomers build confidence in a new country.
His days still include movement and routine, from attending local fitness classes to walking through Vaughan Mills with his wife. At the same time, games like Sudoku, chess and Wordle help keep his mind active, reflecting his belief that learning never really stops.
Advice he’s carried for decades continues to shape his outlook. “If you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything,” he recalls, a reminder that keeps him motivated to stay involved and encourage others to do the same.7
Meet Merly
For Merly Raposas, staying active looks a little different. Dance plays a big part in her routine, especially Zumba and line dancing, where energy and music come together in a way that feels joyful and social.
Time spent walking at North Maple Regional Park or visiting North Thornhill Community Centre offers another way to stay connected. “Life feels better when you keep smiling and stay around people,” she shares, reflecting a mindset that keeps her engaged in everyday moments.
Meet Bhupinder
Bhupinder Singh Ahluwalia brings yet another perspective to living well at any age. At 90, he still walks more than 12,000 steps a day, writes poetry in Urdu and enjoys spending time with others at the Dufferin Clark Community Centre.
His interests stretch across languages, literature and movement. Reciting Shakespeare or classic poetry comes as naturally as staying active, showing that curiosity and creativity can keep growing over time.
Older adults never stop growing
A shared message runs through every story: “Just because we’re older doesn’t mean we stop growing – love life and have fun.”
Just as important are the relationships built along the way. Connections formed through classes and clubs have led to friendships and opportunities to take on leadership roles within the community.
Taken together, these experiences show that there’s no single way to stay active as a senior. What matters most is finding what works for you and enjoying the process along the way.
Participation often builds confidence, creates a sense of purpose and strengthens the bonds that bring people together. Each story is a reflection of what’s possible when people stay curious and open, at any age.
The City’s broader Age-Friendly Community Action Plan, focuses on helping residents stay engaged, supported and included at every stage of life.
Learn more about the Action Plan.
Explore programs and find what fits your interests at vaughan.ca/OlderAdultRec
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