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?

    No, you generally do not need a doctor’s referral. Most friendly visiting, telephone reassurance, and social programs accept self-referrals, or referrals from family members, caregivers, and friends. You can use the "Get Started" button on this website to request help for yourself or a loved one.

  • Is there a cost for social programs?

    Many one-on-one programs, such as Friendly Visiting and Telephone Reassurance, are offered free of charge or at a very low cost because they are supported by government funding and volunteers. Group programs (like dining or specialized clubs) or Adult Day Programs may have a small fee or membership cost to cover meals and activities.

  • Can social connection programs help someone with dementia?

    No. Families can contact private agencies directly.

  • How often are social connection programs offered?

    Frequency depends on the type of program and your needs. Telephone Reassurance calls can often be scheduled daily or weekly. Friendly Visits typically take place once a week for about an hour. Group activities occur at scheduled times throughout the month.

  • Are volunteers at these social programs trained?

    Yes. Volunteers undergo a screening process (including police background checks) and receive training from the agency to ensure they provide safe, compassionate, and engaging companionship. Volunteers for specialized programs, like those for dementia, often receive additional training.

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

    Absolutely. Social connection programs are a great addition to other services. While home care focuses on health and personal needs, and day programs provide structured respite, a Friendly Visitor or Telephone Check focuses purely on companionship and emotional well-being, filling the gaps when other services aren't present.