Join us from October 6–12, 2025 for Active Aging Week, a city-wide celebration of healthy and active lifestyles for older adults. The event features free and low-cost activities at Burnaby’s senior centres: Bonsor 55+, Temporary Cameron 55+, Confederation, and Edmonds 55+.

Some activities require advance registration via WebReg, so be sure to sign up at least a week ahead to secure your spot. Whether you’re looking to try a new class, meet fellow community members, or just enjoy being active, there’s something for everyone.

Let’s celebrate aging by staying healthy, engaged, and connected!

For full schedules and activity details, visit the Burnaby city website.

https://www.burnaby.ca/recreation-and-arts/events/active-aging-week

A landmark meta-analysis of nearly 1 million people confirms what many of us have suspected: aiming for 7,000 daily steps delivers substantial health benefits across multiple areas, without the pressure of the 10,000-step myth. (Lancet August 2025)

Key findings include:

• 47% lower risk of death from any cause

• 25% lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease, and 47% lower risk of dying from it

• 37% lower risk of dying from cancer

A landmark Spanish clinical trial, PREDIMED-Plus, just release their results in August 2025. It found that combining a Mediterranean-style diet with fewer calories, moderate exercise, and professional weight-loss support reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 31%.

The trial, the largest nutrition study ever in Europe (4,746 people aged 55 to 75 years) began in 2013 and involved over 100 primary care centers, 22 universities, hospitals, and research centers, and more than 200 researchers.

erc.europa.eu

A clinical trial led by ERC grantee Miguel Ángel Martínez-González of the University of Navarra in Spain showed that modest, sustained dietary and lifestyle changes can prevent thousands of cases of diabetes worldwide. It is the largest European nutrition trial, initiated in 2013 and co-funded by the ERC, the Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII) and the Center for Biomedical Research Network (CIBER) Consortium.

To see if an optimized Mediterranean diet could better prevent type 2 diabetes, researchers compared two groups. One group followed a calorie-reduced Mediterranean diet (around 600 kcal fewer per day), combined with a moderate exercise program including brisk walking, strength, and balance training, along with professional guidance for weight management. The comparison group followed a traditional Mediterranean diet without calorie restriction or exercise advice.

The intervention group not only lowered their risk of type 2 diabetes but also lost…

As the weather cools down and fall flavors come alive, it’s a great time to explore diabetes-friendly, nutritious, and seasonal recipes. I came across a fantastic collection from EatingWell that focuses on vegetarian dinners, high in fiber and protein, and designed to support blood sugar control.

Some highlights include:

• Roasted Potato Tzatziki Bowls: Crispy potatoes with chickpeas and fresh veggies for fiber and protein.

• High-Protein Pasta with Peas: Chickpea pasta tossed with peas, basil, pesto, and pine nuts.

• Extra-Crispy Eggplant Parmesan: Creamy, satisfying, and lower in saturated fat than traditional versions.

• Chhole (Chickpea Curry): Quick, flavorful, and packed with plant-based protein.

  
  

The common misconception that Type 2 diabetes is solely a result of poor lifestyle choices is both simplistic and harmful. It ignores the powerful roles of genetics, social determinants of health, and environmental factors.

Research shows that blaming patients for their condition is not only inaccurate but also leads to poorer health outcomes.

In this video, Patti shares openly about her frustrations and the difficulties she’s experienced living with diabetes since her diagnosis a year and a half ago.

"Changing the Conversation" is a powerful, Telly Award–winning video produced by Mytonomy that challenges how we talk about diabetes.

It highlights the stigma embedded in everyday language and calls on healthcare professionals and communities to reframe their words, from labeling people by their condition to recognizing their humanity.

This engaging piece shows the importance of respectful, person-centered communication and serves as a compelling reminder that our words matter, especially in healthcare.

Seniors Services Society of BC (SSSBC) is a nonprofit based in New Westminster, BC. It provides programs and services that help older adults maintain independence, access housing, and get community support.

1. Meal Delivery Program

   • Provides nutritious, affordable meals for seniors who cannot cook on their own.

   • Meals are prepared by Better Meals and delivered directly to clients’ homes.

   • Promotes independence and supports healthy aging.

     
     

This video, “Tai Chi for Diabetes” by Dr. Paul Lam, introduces the benefits of Tai Chi for individuals living with diabetes. Dr. Lam highlights its role in supporting both physical and mental well-being and demonstrates a simple routine that is suitable for beginners.

Key Highlights from the Video:

• Accessibility: Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise, appropriate for a wide range of ages and fitness levels.

• Mind–body benefits: It encourages mindfulness and reduces stress, both of which can support blood glucose management.

• Ease of practice: The movements can be performed at home without the need for special equipment.