Stronger, Longer: Helping Seniors Stay Independent with Movement, Mindset & Modern Tools
There’s this stat that stopped me in my tracks: Nearly half of Canadians over 85 live alone. That’s wild — and honestly, inspiring. It means a huge portion of older folks are out here carving their own paths, staying in their homes, doing things on their terms. They’re what experts call “solo agers,” and I think they’re absolute legends.
At Dibs Fitness, I work with people of all ages and stages—but I’ve got a real soft spot for my older clients. Maybe it’s because so many of them remind me what true strength looks like. It’s not just about lifting weights or doing pushups (although I’ll always cheer you on for those too!). It’s about choosing to keep showing up, choosing to stay mobile, and choosing to care for your future self—even if your knees are a little creaky and your kids keep bugging you to get a fall-alert necklace.
Here on Gabriola Island, we’ve got one of the most senior-rich communities in BC. According to the 2021 Census, 44.3% of Gabriolans are aged 65 or older, compared to just 18.3% across the province. That’s almost half the island! The median age here is 63.2, which means we’re living in a place where aging isn’t the exception—it’s the norm.
But here’s the thing — living solo as we age takes intentional effort. It takes a bit of planning, honest convos with loved ones, and most of all, moving our bodies in ways that help us keep our freedom. I’m all about supporting people of every age and ability to stay strong, capable, and connected — so let’s talk about how we can help ourselves (and our loved ones) stay independent for as long as possible.
💪 Movement = Freedom
You’ve heard me say it before, and I’ll say it again: movement is medicine — especially as we age. Regular strength and balance training is hands down one of the best things older adults can do to stay independent. Think of it as future-proofing your body.
Here’s what consistent movement can help with:
Reducing the risk of falls (a major reason people lose independence)
Improving balance and coordination
Maintaining bone density and muscle mass
Making everyday tasks — like standing up from the couch, carrying groceries, or walking up stairs — easier
Keeping your brain sharp and mood lifted
And I’m not talking about high-impact workouts or punishing routines. I mean gentle, smart, strength-based movement tailored to where your body’s at. Whether that’s resistance bands, bodyweight work, walking, swimming, or even chair-based exercises — there’s something for everyone.
🧠 Independence Starts in the Mind
Staying independent isn’t just about your muscles. It’s about mindset.
Psychiatrists say that staying socially and mentally engaged is just as important as keeping physically active. Loneliness and social isolation can have the same impact on your health as smoking a pack of ciggies a day. That’s massive.
So go to that community dance class. Invite a neighbour over for tea. Volunteer. Learn how to FaceTime your grandkids. Ask your mate to walk with you twice a week. I know it can feel awkward at first, but we need each other — connection is just as essential as exercise.
👨👩👧👦 The “Aging Talk” Can Be Awkward — Do It Anyway
If you’re getting older and your adult kids are starting to fuss over your tech use or mention assisted living options… it’s probably coming from a place of love. But I get it — it can feel a bit like being parented by your own kids.
Here’s my advice: talk about your preferences before a crisis happens. Do you want to stay in your home? Are you open to trying out fall alarms, a stairlift, or a cleaner once a fortnight? Let them know you’re thinking about your future, and let them know you’re not planning on giving up your independence without a good plan in place.
🏡 Aging in Place — But Make it Smart
The goal for most seniors I work with is simple: stay at home, stay safe, stay well. That might mean:
Installing grab bars or non-slip mats in the bathroom
Doing specific exercises to make getting up off the ground easier
Using a smartwatch or fall detection app for peace of mind
Keeping up with medical appointments and medication
Scheduling regular fitness sessions that build strength, not stress
I’ve got clients in their 60s and 70s who are out here learning kettlebell swings, mastering mobility drills, and working toward a pain-free plank. Independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone — it means feeling strong enough to choose how and when you get help.
📱 Tech Isn’t the Enemy
Older adults get a bad rap for “not being good with tech,” but let me tell you: I’ve got clients who’ve mastered online booking systems, YouTube workouts, and virtual workouts like pros. Tech can make aging safer, easier, and more social. Embrace it.
From virtual check-ins with a personal trainer (like me!), to apps that help you track your meds, to smart ovens that turn off automatically — there’s tech out there designed to support independence, not replace it.
❤️ The Bottom Line
Aging isn’t something to be feared. It’s a chapter where you get to double down on what matters most — your health, your joy, your people, and your freedom. And the beautiful thing is, you’re not too old to get stronger. You’re not too old to start training. You’re not too old to find a new passion or community.
If you or someone you love is getting older and wants to stay independent, I’m here to help. Let’s create a plan that builds strength, confidence, and capacity — one movement at a time.
Because independence? That’s what I call functional fitness.
Want help building a sustainable movement routine that actually supports your goals and lifestyle? Let’s work together.
You’re not “too old” or “too stiff” or “too late.”
You’re just getting started.
