Social Isolation & Loneliness Supports in Mississauga

Feeling connected to others is essential for health, but many older adults experience long periods without meaningful social interaction. In Canada, nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 65+ report feeling socially isolated, and loneliness is linked to increased risks of depression, falls, hospitalization, and cognitive decline.

(Source: National Seniors Council, Social Isolation of Seniors Report)

Use the address-based search tool below to find friendly visiting, phone reassurance, group dining, and virtual social programs in your neighbourhood.

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Need help finding the right program or service?

The Seniors Navigation Portal team is here to help connect you to the right social isolation service. If your address is outside of the service area, please use the search on this page.

Why Social Connection Matters

Because social isolation directly affects both physical and mental health, accessing community-based companionship and engagement programs can significantly improve well-being.

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Statistics Canada

2x

Older adults living alone in urban areas, including Mississauga and Peel Region, are twice as likely to report feelings of loneliness.

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Health Canada

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Loneliness increases the risk of premature death at levels comparable to smoking or obesity.

50%

Social isolation is associated with a 50% higher risk of dementia.

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National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

Types of Social Connection Programs

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Friendly Visiting

Regular, in-person or virtual visits from trained volunteers or staff, offering:

  • Conversation and companionship
  • Light activities (puzzles, games, reading)
  • Emotional support
  • Routine check-ins
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Ideal for adults who spend most days alone or who have reduced mobility.

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Telephone Reassurance & Safety Checks

Scheduled phone calls to provide:

  • Daily or weekly wellness check-ins
  • Medication or appointment reminders
  • Emotional support and friendly conversation
  • Alerts to family/caregivers if something seems wrong
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A good option for homebound adults, individuals who live alone, or those needing a predictable check-in routine.

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Group Dining Programs

Community meals held in senior centres or community spaces, offering:

  • Nutritious meals
  • Social interaction with peers
  • Recreational or cultural activities
  • A safe, structured outing
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Research shows shared meals significantly reduce loneliness and increase life satisfaction among older adults.

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Virtual Groups & Social Programs

Online gatherings for individuals who cannot attend in person:

  • Support groups
  • Interest-based clubs (music, art, reading, exercise)
  • Memory cafés
  • Conversation circles
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Virtual options reduce barriers for individuals with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Why These Programs Help

Social programs create meaningful connection by offering:

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Routine engagement — scheduled interactions reduce long stretches of isolation.

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Emotional reassurance — knowing someone will check in.

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Enhanced mental health — improved mood, motivation, and sense of purpose.

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Reduced caregiver stress — especially when support groups or peer circles are involved.

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Greater safety — safety checks identify concerns early.

Is This Type of Support Right for You?

These programs are a good fit if the person:

  • Lives alone or has limited social interaction
  • Has mobility, health, or transportation challenges
  • Has recently lost a partner or experienced major life change
  • Is showing signs of withdrawal, low mood, or reduced engagement
  • Needs routine check-ins for safety
  • Benefits from structured activities and peer interaction

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need a referral for a social connection program?

    Typically for adults who live in the service area of Mississauga (and sometimes neighbouring parts of Peel/Halton), and who:


    • Are unable to reliably prepare meals for themselves due to age, disability, illness or recovery; (mealsonwheels.ca)
    • Reside at home (not in long-term-care or similar facility) and have access to a safe address for delivery;
    • Meet any provider-specified criteria (some programs may have age cut-offs, income or health needs).

  • Is there a cost for social programs?

    Most not-for-profit agencies keep the cost very affordable, sometimes via suggested donations or subsidized by funding. Exact fees will vary by provider and the meal type (hot vs frozen) and frequency. (Meals on Wheels Ontario)

  • Can social connection programs help someone with dementia?

    No. Families can contact private agencies directly.

  • How often are social connection programs offered?

    Yes. Many families use both—public care for essential hours, private care to fill gaps.

  • Are volunteers at these social programs trained?

    Most companies try to maintain consistency, especially for dementia care or longer shifts.

  • Can programs run alongside home care or adult day programs?

    Absolutely—many individuals use multiple services to stay connected, safe, and engaged - Adult Day Programs are a great addition to social isolation programs.