Older adult activities: free virtual programs
Ottawa residents 50+ can enjoy a variety of virtual programs designed to promote learning, wellness, and community engagement—all from the comfort of home! Programs cater to a wide range of interests, including fitness classes, educational workshops, and creative arts. Whether you're looking to stay active, develop new skills, or connect with others in the community, there's something for everyone. Best of all, these programs are funded, making them accessible to all. If your preferred class isn’t available right away, simply join the waitlist for updates on new openings! For a full list of virtual programs available, visit register.ottawa.ca. Enjoy your class!
| Program | Date | Time | Activity code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Book Club | Monday, September 9 | 7 pm | 111910 |
| Book Club | Thursday, September 12 | 7 pm | 111908 |
| Strong and Steady! 65+ | Tuesday, September 24 | 9 am | 113388 |
| TIME – at Home | Tuesday, October 1 | 10 am | 113389 |
| Echoes of Experience: Crafting a Personal Narrative | Wednesday, October 2 | 12:15 pm | 111775 |
| Watercolours | Wednesday, October 2 | 9:45 am | 111825 |
| Art Journalling | Thursday, October 3 | 9:45 am | 111832 |
| Drawing for Absolute Beginners | Thursday, October 3 | 12:15 pm | 111816 |
| Artists Connection | Thursday, October 10 | 10 am | 111925 |
| Spirit of the Ancestors: Indigenous Beadwork Workshop | Wednesday, October 23 | 12:15 pm | 113968 |
| Sketching en Plein Air | Wednesday, November 6 | 12:15 pm | 111846 |
| Drawing and Painting | Wednesday, November 6 | 9:45 am | 111861 |
| Coloured Pencils | Thursday, November 7 | 9:45 am | 111864 |
| Nature Sketching | Thursday, November 7 | 12:15 pm | 111850 |
| Soft Pastels | Wednesday, December 4 | 12:15 pm | 111720 |
| Guitar - Level 1 | Wednesday, December 4 | 10:45 am | 111890 |
| Ukulele | Wednesday, December 4 | 9:45 am | 111896 |
| Zen Doodling | Wednesday, December 4 | 9:45 am | 111801 |
| Watercolours | Thursday, December 5 | 12:15 pm | 111734 |
| Travel Sketching and Painting | Thursday, December 5 | 9:45 am | 111755 |
How it works
Dozens of virtual classes are being offered for people of all ages. Staying active and occupied with live-streamed, interactive classes is a perfect way to promote physical and mental well-being.
The courses are hosted on Zoom, a free streaming service.
Access to Zoom is free.
Using Zoom
You do not need a Zoom account to join the virtual class unless you are using a tablet. If you are using a tablet, you must have the (free) Zoom app downloaded onto your tablet and be logged in to an account.
- Before your first class, you will receive an email with a Zoom meeting link.
- At the time of your class, click the link and follow the steps.
If you would like more information about using Zoom, a video is available on their website.
Technology requirements and supplies
Technology requirements
- You will need a charged computer or tablet with video and microphone capabilities.
- You will also need a high-speed internet connection.
Supplies
If a class requires supplies, either a list will be provided to you or a supply kit will be made available for pick up on designated dates. Supply details will be provided to you upon registration.
Terms and conditions of virtual program participation
Participants
Only registered participants may participate in the live streaming of the program. Any link to a virtual program that is provided to a participant is for the exclusive use of that participant and is not to be shared.
Environment
It is the responsibility of the participant or parent/guardian to remove debris and ensure a safe environment before participation. It is the responsibility of the participant or parent/guardian to ensure the safety and suitability of participants’ premises for participation in the virtual program. By participating in the virtual program, the participant acknowledges that the City of Ottawa accepts no responsibility for ensuring the safety or suitability of the participants’ premises for participation in any virtual program or activity.