About Oasis

Oasis in an innovative model that offers programming for older adults living within a NORC (naturally occurring retirement community). Oasis is unique as it seeks to empower older adults to identify their needs and determine the services and activities which best meet those needs (Donnelly et al, 2019). Oasis includes programming - developed by members - designed to foster movement, healthy nutrition and socialization to support older adults to age within their communities.

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The 3 Oasis Pillars

Nutrition, Physical Activity and Social Engagement, the three pillars, are foundational for healthy aging. Both the General Healthy Ageing (WHO Initiative) and the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing Plan of Action provide strong evidence and support for the benefits of these pillars.

"Oasis is a wonderful program for a seniors' building.
It just brings us together".

Nutrition

Nutrition programming is provided in a number of different ways at different Oasis locations, with common programs including congregate meals (eating together as a large group) and community kitchens (cooking meals together to take home).

Physical Activity

Physical activity, namely group exercise classes are common at Oasis sites. Chair exercises, line dancing, fitness equipment or walking poles help increase physical health and healthy movement.

Social Engagement

Social activities are unique to each Oasis site as they are often member-driven. Common activities include games, crafts and coffee time.

Oasis is growing!

As of 2024, Oasis has expanded to 19 communities across Canada. A sustainability plan has been developed to ensure the stability of these communities. The research team is also working to build a pan-Canadian network of older adults, community providers, researchers, and decision-makers interested in working with NORCs to support the healthy aging of Canadians.

A list of our current sites across Canada:

Kingston, ON – 4 Sites
Belleville, ON – 1 Site
Ottawa, ON – 2 Sites
London, ON – 1 Site
St. Thomas, ON – 1 Site
Hamilton, ON – 1 Site
Toronto, ON – 1 Site
Thunder Bay, ON– 2 Sites
Vancouver, BC – 4 Sites
Halifax, NS – 1 Site
Dartmouth, NS - 1 Site

NORCs Across Canada

Take a look at how naturally occurring retirement communities have changed over time. Our interactive maps will give a "snap shot" of provincial demographics across the country.

Dissemination Areas from Statistics Canada were utilized for NORC map development.