Our Stories

“Age is a question of mind over matter – if you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”

Summer is in the air at Villa Da Vinci Retirement Residence in Vaughan, ON. Residents and team members had fun at a variety of programs this month. Some of the programs included: A Taste of England, where residents were introduced to some of the most popular foods in England, including classic fish and chips from a shop that’s been open since the 1930s; a very popular flower arranging program; Canada Day celebrations, which included live music; music on our piazza, which was perfect for summer dancing; a beautiful picnic at the lake, where residents enjoyed a game of Bocce Ball; and a variety of craft and art classes.

Michelle and Joe had not seen each other for 10 years, when, by chance, Joe saw Michelle walking in front of a parking meter on the other side of the street.

For Erin Malcolm, social interaction is an important part of both the resident and team member experience. She’s been working at Trillium Retirement and Care Community in Kingston for 17 years, and takes a special interest in residents with dementia.

What is it like to spend your days at Sienna? We asked our team that very question. This was their answer.

Have you heard of the story of the Three Sisters Soup? The First Nations legend says that three sisters, corn, beans and squash, worked together and applied their individual strengths to keep their community healthy and strong.

Twelve years ago, Lisa Kutlesa applied for an activation aide role at Spencer House in Orillia. The building was still under construction, and she felt that “the new building represented a new start” in her life. She felt excited to work with residents and family members, and has enjoyed implementing creative programming, collaborating with others in the sector, and spending time with residents.

As an opera singer and actress, Cleone Duncan performed in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Over her years as a performer, she met Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, the Queen, and Prince Phillip. Her voice is absolutely beautiful.

Follow the inspiring PSWs at Fountain View Care Community in Toronto, ON, as they spread the warmth of human connection to everyone they interact with. Their dedication and passion will move you.

As she approaches 35 years with Sienna, Ruth Gauthier, RN BScN GNC©, Clinical Care Partner reflects, “I can’t believe I’m old enough to have worked somewhere for this long. It’s incredible to think about how the sector has evolved, for the better, with residents in mind.”

Gordon stood on the back of the plow, a team of horses pulling him slowly forwards, preparing the fields for planting.

Pierre, who is 98, and Veronique, who is 94, sit together, their fingers entwined. They’ve been married for 75 years, but they’re more in love now than ever before.

Golden nuggets made of caramel corn are passed around as the line dancers take to the stage. Some residents join in on the dance, excited to be part of the hoedown. Others prefer to watch, or chat with friends. It’s just another day at their retirement residence.