Musicians have the advantage of being in a profession that can be practiced well into the senior years, and many famous older musicians from Canada have enjoyed long and fruitful careers. Mississauga, ON, elder care experts discuss the lives of 4 exceptional Canadian musical artists over 65 who are still touring and recording to this day.
1. Gordon Lightfoot
Lightfoot is a folk-pop music legend born in 1938 in Orillia, ON. His music career has covered more than 5 decades and produced over 200 recordings that include “Sundown” and “Rainy Day People.” Many other well-known singers, including Jimmy Buffet and Gene Clark, have recorded Lightfoot’s songs. Lightfoot attributes exercising at least 6 days a week to helping him stay mentally and physically fit while touring.
2. Ian Thomas
Born in 1950 in Hamilton, ON, Thomas is a successful rock and roll singer, songwriter, and actor. His most memorable hit was “Painted Ladies,” which debuted in 1973. In the summer of 2016, he was touring with Murray McLauchlan, Cindy Church, and Marc Jordan in the group Lunch at Allen’s. Thomas credits his good health and longevity in the music industry to the love, support, and care from Catherine, his wife of 46 years.
3. Paul Anka
Anka was born in Ottawa, ON, in 1941. A teen idol in the 50s, Anka had many famous hits, including “Lonely Boy” and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder.” He also wrote the catchy theme for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Anka attributes staying in shape, caring for his health, and a passion for music as the reasons why he can still perform at his age.
4. Jack Scott
Born in 1936 in Windsor, ON, Scott is a rock and roll musician who started his solo music career in 1957. One of his signature single hits, “My True Love,” hit number 3 on the charts, and “Leroy,” the B-side of this record, hit number 11. In 2011, he was admitted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. He is still touring today and now lives in a suburb of Detroit. Doing what he is passionate about, entertaining, and receiving admiration from his fans is what keeps him young at heart.
Playing music can stimulate the mind, body, and soul, which is especially important for the elderly. To learn about other stimulating activities seniors can participate in, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our caregivers are available 24/7, we offer comprehensive Parkinson’s, stroke, and Alzheimer’s care Mississauga, ON, families trust, and all of our senior care services come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. For more information and to request a free in-home consultation, call one of our friendly Care Managers at 905-337-1200 today.