Saturday 18 October 2025
The Glebe Community Centre on Third Avenue was the scene of a Health and Wellness Circle for older adults, hosted by the Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO). Led by Project Coordinator and Registered Nurse Kudirat Salam-Alada, the event included gentle stretching chair exercises, followed by a discussion on the benefits of sleep. Each of the seniors shared their experience and challenges with getting a restful sleep, with the Project Coordinator providing tips on research evidence-based best practices on how to accomplish this. Among the discussants was Dr. Ubabuko Unachukwu, a research associate with the Ottawa Heart Institute, who provided insights into the physiological aspects of sound sleep.
Following on this, animator Aba Tsiagbey led the seniors in a fun-based hat-making activity, during which each participant decorated a hat of their own choice with catchy labels such as : Good Vibes Only; Hard Work and Dream Big . The evening was rounded off by a delicious dinner of jollof rice, salad and fired chicken.
Below is an excerpt from CADHO on the objectives of the Health & Wellness Circle:
At CADHO, we believe that every stage of life deserves dignity, care, and community. We are honored to offer the Health and Wellness Circle Program, a monthly wellness initiative for seniors aged 65 and older within the African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) community. This initiative is more than a gathering; it’s a holistic approach to senior wellness. The program includes a mix of physical activities, health education workshops, mental wellness discussions, nutritional guidance, and social connection opportunities, all curated to support the evolving needs of our elders. Each month, from gentle movement classes and blood pressure screenings to storytelling circles and cultural engagement sessions, offers a meaningful experience. The Health and Wellness Circle is a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for ACB seniors to strengthen their well-being while building lasting bonds with peers. We recognize that aging in dignity also means aging in community, and this program supports that vision fully.
