How a simple card game is helping seniors fight a silent crisis

Women play cards at Charlottetown Library's Seniors' Cafe. (Maria Sarrouh/CTV News)

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. - Cards on the table, coffee in the kitchen and a few familiar faces are giving P.E.I. seniors a reason to leave the house.

At the Charlottetown Library, the Seniors’ Cafe is a monthly gathering built around games, food and conversation. For Norine Hanus, it’s also a chance to step out of her routine.

“I live alone, and it gets lonesome,” she said. “But I always find friends here.”

Hanus said she’s used to having family around her, but many of her loved ones have now left the Island or live far away. Three of her four children have moved, and her two brothers live in Saskatchewan. Phone calls help, she said, but they don’t replace sitting across from someone.

“It’s hard, being alone,” Hanus said.

According to a report released this year by the National Institute on Ageing (NIA), 57 per cent of Canadians aged 50-plus experience loneliness, and 43 per cent are at risk of social isolation.

The issue is being highlighted during Seniors Loneliness Awareness Week, which runs from June 15 to 21 across the country.

The Seniors’ Cafe has been running for nearly four years, said library technician Gillian Mahen, who helps organize it.

The first hour is usually an event or activity, before participants move into the kitchen for snacks and drinks. The library also offers other seniors programming throughout the month.

“It’s really a chance to get out and socialize and meet other people in a safe and welcoming environment,” Mahen said, adding that having company can help keep some people’s thoughts from spiralling to dark places.

If cards aren’t the draw, there’s something for everyone.

Christine Young started at the ring toss station before playing cornhole. Around the room, there were also puzzles, chess and other games available to try.

“I just finished work a couple years ago, so I want something to do,” Young said. “I like activity. I like games, sports.”

Hanus was hoping a friend she met at a previous cafe, Denise, would walk through the doors.

“That was my mother’s name. I think that was the connection, and we had a grand time talking,” she said.

For the first time, the Seniors’ Café will run through the summer. It’ll take place on the third Thursday of each month at the Charlottetown Library, giving Islanders more opportunities to get out, gather and spend time together.