A Super Visa visit offers parents and grandparents a great opportunity to spend extended time with their children and grandchildren in Canada. While it’s an opportunity to bond, celebrate and explore, it’s equally important to care for your health. It can be quite different when you come from Canada because you are in a different climate, food, healthcare system, or lifestyle than you’re used to at home. Therefore, it is important enough to do as much as you can to keep yourself healthy while you’re there.
No matter how long you are staying, these 3 tips will help keep you healthy, active, and ready to take advantage of your time in Canada with your Super Visa in 2025.
Use and Understand Your Health Insurance Properly
The super visa requires proof of private medical insurance cover for a period of 1 year or more. Its purpose is to guard emergency medical care, hospitalisation and repatriation. That being said, having insurance is only the first step—you need to know what the insurance covers and how to use it.
Make sure you have clear documentation of your coverage before arriving in Canada; know which hospitals or clinics accept your insurance provider and where to find emergency contact details. In your wallet, carry at least one card or printed sheet with your medical insurance details, medication list, and emergency contacts in your home country and in Canada if possible.
By 2025, more insurance providers will give digital access to policy documents to insure you and mobile apps for claims and support; take advantage of this to keep yourself informed and ready.
Stay Current with Your Medical Checkups and Medications
Prior to your trip, visit your doctor and get a full health check-up. Carry a supply of your prescribed medications, ideally enough to last your entire stay. Ensure your medications are legal in Canada and properly labelled. If you’re bringing medications that require refrigeration or special storage, plan accordingly.
If you have chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or arthritis, make sure your Canadian family is aware of your health situation. Bring your medical history records with you, especially if you might need to visit a physician in Canada during your stay.
Many pharmacies and clinics in Canada now offer online consultations or medication delivery, so it’s easier than ever to stay on top of your health needs while abroad.
Adjust to the Canadian Climate Gradually
If you’re visiting from a warmer country, adjusting to Canada’s seasons—especially winter—can be challenging. Sudden exposure to cold temperatures can trigger respiratory issues or worsen joint pain in older adults.
Dress in layers, invest in a good-quality winter coat, thermal wear, gloves, hats, and waterproof boots. Stay indoors during snowstorms and icy weather, and be careful when walking on slippery sidewalks. Hydration is just as important during the winter months, as heated indoor air can dry out your skin and throat.
In spring and summer, don’t forget to apply sunscreen, wear hats, and stay hydrated—Canada’s sun can be strong, especially in the prairies or coastal regions.
Maintain a Healthy Diet Without Missing Out on Family Treats
Staying with your children and grandchildren often means enjoying hearty meals, festive treats, and new cuisines. While indulging occasionally is fine, be mindful of your dietary needs.
Stick to balanced meals with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. If you’re on a low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, or heart-healthy diet, discuss your needs with your family so they can accommodate your meals.
Canada has a wide variety of international grocery stores and health food shops, including South Asian and East Asian markets, making it easier to find familiar and healthy ingredients. You can also find healthy alternatives to traditional ingredients without compromising taste or nutrition.
Stay Physically Active, Even at Home
Physical activity doesn’t mean intense gym workouts. A brisk daily walk around the neighbourhood, light stretching, or indoor yoga can help improve circulation, maintain joint flexibility, and boost mood.
Many community centres offer free or low-cost senior-friendly fitness classes and wellness programmes. These can also be great ways to meet others and stay socially engaged.
If the weather is too cold, try mall-walking—an indoor alternative that many older adults enjoy. Walking with your grandchildren or joining them in light outdoor play can also keep you moving while creating meaningful memories.
Watch for Mental and Emotional Wellness
Living in a new country, even temporarily, can bring emotional ups and downs. Some parents may feel isolated, homesick, or overwhelmed. Language barriers or unfamiliar routines can amplify these feelings.
Stay connected with friends and family back home through video calls, and consider joining community or religious groups in your area. Many immigrant communities have networks or events specifically for visiting parents or seniors.
Practise mindfulness, meditation, or spiritual activities that you enjoy. Maintaining a routine that includes rest, light physical activity, social interaction, and hobbies can significantly improve emotional well-being.
Know When and Where to Seek Medical Help
In Canada, medical emergencies are handled professionally and efficiently, but the system might be different from what you’re used to. Know when to go to a walk-in clinic, see a general practitioner, or visit the emergency room.
For non-urgent health concerns, walk-in clinics or virtual doctor appointments are best. For more serious conditions, you may need to visit a hospital or consult a specialist—your insurance provider can guide you through these options.
In 2025, many health services in Canada have adopted online appointment booking, electronic prescriptions, and even video consultations. Encourage your family to help you access these services when needed.
Build Healthy Habits Together as a Family
Staying healthy during your Super Visa visit isn’t just your responsibility—it’s something the whole family can support. Encourage family walks, prepare healthy meals together, and involve yourself in light chores or activities at home. This not only benefits your health but strengthens family bonds.
Young children especially benefit from seeing healthy habits modelled by grandparents. Sharing meals, routines, and cultural practices can help everyone live more mindfully.
Final Thoughts
Your Super Visa visit is a special chapter in your life, and your health is the foundation that allows you to enjoy every moment of it. By planning ahead, staying active, eating well, and keeping your physical and mental health in check, you’ll be able to make the most of your stay in Canada.
Need Help Planning a Healthy Visit?
At Parents Super Visa, we not only help you secure the best Super Visa insurance plans, but we also support you with useful resources to keep your visit safe and enjoyable. Whether you need guidance on choosing the right insurance or tips for health maintenance during your stay, we’re here to help every step of the way. Get in touch today and make your 2025 visit to Canada your healthiest yet.
