Oak Valley Health’s commitment to seniors in our community
June marks Seniors Month in Ontario — a time to recognize the invaluable contributions older adults make to our families, neighbourhoods, and communities. It is also an opportunity to highlight the importance of health, connection, and well-being at every stage of life.
Throughout Markham, Stouffville, and surrounding communities, Oak Valley Health (OVH), alongside its hospital foundation and community partners, continues to support seniors through education, engagement, and accessible, integrated care.
Earlier this spring, the Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation hosted its Healthy. Together. Speaker Series, with a dedicated focus on seniors’ health. The session brought together community members, caregivers, and health care professionals, exploring how seniors’ care is evolving, from recent breakthroughs and advancements to how we can better support caregivers. Speakers included Dr. Raza Naqvi, geriatrician, and Dr. Elizabeth Mui, family physician.
The session explored topics related to healthy aging, chronic disease management, and maintaining independence and quality of life. By fostering open dialogue and sharing practical, evidence-based information, the series helped seniors and their families feel more informed, supported, and confident in navigating their health care journey. Watch the full event: mshf.on.ca/events/26healthytogether.
OVH also participated in the Young Excited Seniors (YES) ministry event in May, further strengthening connections between hospital care and community-based support. At the event, occupational therapist Cynthia Kurniawan shared practical guidance on mobility, home safety, and everyday strategies to help seniors remain active and independent.
Through partnerships like these, OVH continues to extend care beyond hospital walls — helping reduce isolation, promote wellness, and support seniors where they live.
Building on this momentum, Oak Valley Health is preparing for its upcoming Seniors’ Health & Wellness Fair on June 5 at Markham Stouffville Hospital. The event will bring together health care professionals, wellness providers, and community organizations to offer health information, screenings, and resources tailored to seniors.
The fair reflects OVH’s commitment to proactive, integrated care by connecting seniors with services that support physical health, mental well-being, and social connection. By bringing trusted information and resources together in one place, the event aims to empower seniors to take an active role in their health. Visit oakvalleyhealth.ca/upcoming_event/seniors-health-wellness-fair for more information.
Oak Valley Health offers specialized services to support seniors both in clinic and at home.
The Seniors’ Health Clinic at Markham Stouffville Hospital provides comprehensive geriatric assessments for concerns such as memory impairment, falls, medication management, and challenges with daily living or home safety. Care is delivered by an interdisciplinary team, including a geriatric physician, nurse practitioners, and occupational therapists, working closely with patients and caregivers to optimize health and quality of life. Access to the clinic is by referral from a health care provider or following a hospital visit.
For seniors who are unable to access clinic-based care, the Seniors Home Support (SHS) program delivers integrated primary care directly in the home. This interdisciplinary model brings together physicians, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, community paramedics, and home care coordinators to provide ongoing, coordinated care. Services include in-home visits, virtual care, and telephone support, all supported by a shared electronic medical record to ensure seamless communication across providers. Care plans are continuously adapted to meet patients’ evolving needs. Patients can self-refer, or they can be referred by primary care, specialists, acute care, and community support services.
Seniors Month is both a celebration and a reminder of the importance of continued investment in seniors’ care. Through educational events, community partnerships, and initiatives like the fair, OVH remains committed to supporting healthy aging across the community by helping seniors stay safe, connected, and empowered to live well in their communities.
Photo: The Seniors’ Health & Wellness Fair takes place June 5 at Markham Stouffville Hospital.
*Story submitted by Michelle Lee Hoy.