Barbara of Chatham, Ontario is 85 and she starts her holiday baking early. “If I don’t get started in November, I might as well not start,” she says. Once December hits, the numerous clubs and groups she belongs to begin hosting their holiday events, and she barely has time for baking. Barbara’s signature dishes are a Christmas cake, a shortbread cookie and an oatmeal cookie with a secret ingredient (“They’re made with lard!”).

While delicious, Barbara might be looking to lighten up her holiday baking next season as she was recently diagnosed with diabetes. Barbara thought by the time she was 85, she’d be able to eat whatever she wanted. She never expected to have to modify generations-old recipes or give up holiday baking altogether.

If you’re like Barbara and looking to adopt some healthier habits in the new year, here are some great baking substitutions:

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One was harassed about her weight. One came forward to say that people whispered about his wheelchair. Another knew people were laughing at the way she did her hair. These are not stories from high school. They are stories from senior residences, where bullying is more prevalent than most people think. 

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Canada turns 150 July 1. Celebrations are planned across the country to mark Canada’s 150^th birthday. Fireworks and parties might not be the ideal setting for everyone. Here are 10 other great ways to ring in 150 years of Canada with an older friend or loved one.

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The most common myth surrounding seniors and falls? Falls are a normal part of aging. Falls are not a foregone conclusion. Unfortunately, falls are the No. 1 cause of injuries among Canadians 65 and over. Between 20 and 30 percent of Canadian seniors experience one fall each year.
It does not have to be this way. With education and prevention, falls are less likely to affect seniors’ activities and independent living. Here are four more fall myths out of step with current research in fall prevention.

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