Pathways to Social Inclusion project focused on studying Arab Seniors in Canada, recognizing their unique needs. The primary objective of the project was to study and subsequently increase social participation specifically among Arab seniors. It explored barriers to social entry, motivations towards social participation, and aimed to provide recommendations for organizations working with seniors.
Over a period of eight months, participating senior mentors, youth fellows and CAI project team organized discussion groups and activities. The topics tackled were identified and led by our participating senior mentors, and specifically explored and captured cultural perceptions and attitudes towards social engagement and volunteerism. Along the way, discussion topics expanded to address social isolation, physical and mental health, accessibility and navigation of senior services and community connections. The discussion groups led to the development of a survey to measurably identify barriers, challenges and motivations to volunteerism and engagement among senior Arabs living in Canada.
The project report below provides details on the project scope, key learnings and recommendations.
For further information or details on the project or content presented in the report please contact the Canadian Arab Institute at info@canadianarabinstitute.org
Selected quotes from the report:
The study found that, although social isolation is more common among seniors than youth, it was specifically more prevalent among Arab seniors. Some of the barriers identified included; language and cultural barriers, accessibility and mobility issues, mindset and lack of interest, economic and financial obligations, and family obligations.
The top three reasons identified as barriers to Arab seniors participation and volunteerism were (i) health issues, (ii) language barriers, and (iii) mobility or accessibility related reasons (including transportation methods, transportation costs, weather etc.)
Thirty Two Percent of survey participants indicated they have volunteered in the past, while 18% indicated they currently volunteer. Of those who volunteered, believing in a cause is the leading motivating factor.
Addressing cultural barriers and the fear of not being accepted in the larger Canadian society was a recurring hot topic during the group discussions and survey interactions.
This project was made possible in partnership efforts with the Arab Community Centre in Toronto (ACCT), and support of community partners ARGANA Moroccan-Canadian Women’s Association, LoveArabic, our friends from the Arab Cultural Club of Ontario (ACCO) and active community organizers.
This project was funded by:
