Adults 55 and over in Muskoka can register now for YWCA Muskoka's free Aging Well events, held in Bracebridge on November 10 and Gravenhurst on November 17, both from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Registration opened in late October and organizers are urging people to sign up early.

What happens during the day

Each event runs a full day of workshops led by community experts, covering health, well-being, relationships and getting older. Attendees choose the sessions that interest them rather than following a fixed schedule, so the day can be shaped around personal concerns.

Morning refreshments and a free lunch are provided at no cost. The organization notes that these sessions are made possible through funding from the federal New Horizons for Seniors Program.

Which workshops can you choose?

The two programs share most topics, with a couple of differences:

  • Hearing and pelvic health
  • Support for people who care for a family member
  • Medical assistance in dying and planning ahead
  • A session on finding your creative side
  • A talk on where people can grow, recharge and set goals
  • Artificial intelligence and digital skills
  • Medical cannabis
  • Men's health, relationships and aging
  • Understanding addiction (Gravenhurst only)
  • A book club (Bracebridge only)

Stacey Schat, director of community programs at YWCA Muskoka, described the events as a way for older adults to learn something new and connect with others, according to a release from the organization.

Why you should go

  • It is free. There is no charge to attend, and lunch and morning refreshments are included.
  • You choose the agenda. Participants pick the workshops that suit them, from hearing health to digital skills.
  • The topics are practical. Sessions cover caregiving, planning ahead and relationships, subjects that often come up as people plan for later life.
  • It is a chance to meet others. The day is built around connection as well as information, which suits people attending alone.
  • Two locations, two dates. Bracebridge and Gravenhurst each host a session, giving residents of different parts of Muskoka an option closer to home.

What to know before you go

Both events run 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Bracebridge session on November 10 is at the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre (Leo's Auditorium), 56 Salmon Ave. The Gravenhurst session on November 17 is at the YMCA Community Centre's Terry Fox Room.

Registration is required and space is limited, so organizers encourage signing up early. To register, visit ywcamuskoka.com/ys-seniors or call 705-645-9827. The brief does not list ticket prices beyond stating the events are free; check with the organizer for any updates.

FAQ

When and where are the Aging Well events?

Bracebridge's event is November 10, 2026 at the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre, and Gravenhurst's is November 17, 2026 at the YMCA Community Centre. Both run 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

How much does it cost and how do I register?

The events are free for adults 55 and over, with lunch provided. Registration is required at ywcamuskoka.com/ys-seniors or by calling 705-645-9827.