Just as every person is unique, so is their reason for choosing a seniors’ residence. If you’re an active senior looking for fitness and daily social activities, or if your spouse or parent needs skilled nursing or medication management, these personal stories and testimonials will resonate with you. Find out why these Canadian seniors sought out the independent living and assisted living options at Amica Senior Lifestyles.
I didn't want to burden my children
“I hadn’t really thought much about moving until my son told me about a new place that was just being built. My daughter and I went to see it. I thought, “Well, it would be a good time to get rid of my house before my children have to look after it later.” –Bunny, 95
My husband died and didn't want me to be alone
“Before my husband died last year, he wanted me to move to a retirement residence. We were married for 52 years: he knows how much I like people and didn’t want me to be on my own. It was his idea and I’m glad. The staff is fantastic, so personal and helpful. The food is excellent and there are lots of activities. –Eleanor, 83
I can stay here until the end
“A lot of people leave the move too late. They say, ‘I’m not ready, I’m doing fine’ and then all of a sudden they get sick and have to go somewhere quickly and they can’t look around. I know people who have gone into other homes where they only have independent living — they had to move again when they got sick and needed more help. I wanted a place where I could stay until I pass.” –Don, 92
I wanted to make the most of the time I have left
“I didn’t realize how lonely I was until I moved. I was living in a condo on my own. I knew nobody. No one said hello. I had no activities, nothing to do. I have my son but he’s busy — you can’t expect your children to entertain you. I needed a change. I didn’t want to be lonely anymore. I thought, ‘You know, there’s not much time left, I want make the most of it.’ I organize all the card games at the residence. The same group comes out: we enjoy the companionship and getting to know each other. We haven’t got time to be sad or lonely because we’re busy having fun and laughing together. The day goes by and you feel good at the end of it.” –Doreen, 80
Moving made good financial sense
“I’ve had a disability all my life. I managed for a while but I was going to have to use a powered chair. The cost efficiency of adapting my condo — it didn’t make sense. I had looked at residences a few years earlier with a much older friend in their 90s, so I had an idea what was out there. I thought, ‘I’m going to have to move sooner or later, so let’s make it sooner.' ” –Catharine, 76
I’d become depressed
“It was my children’s idea for me to move: I was living alone in my house and I had become very depressed. I wasn’t communicating with anyone. The houses were further apart back then and I had no one to talk to. My kids knew something wasn’t right. It wasn’t easy at first but then I got to know people and got used to it. I’ve been here for more than nine years.” –Helen, 84
My wife was diagnosed with dementia
“We were living in our home when my wife was diagnosed with dementia. I thought let’s get used to someplace sooner than later. Since I’m going to be here for a while, I wanted to be very active and enjoy myself. I play golf and I got involved with the residents’ council.” –Ed, 87
My children were worried about me falling
“My husband died and I got tired of looking at the walls. My children were concerned about me because I use a walker and a cane: I have a dropped foot and I fall quite a lot. I thought, What if I put something on the stove and then I fall and can’t get to it?' ” –Florence, 92
I couldn't drive anymore
“I’m a widow and I was living in a townhouse by myself. I’d suffered a slight stroke 10 years earlier and was no longer able to drive, which was one of the factors that motivated the move. Driving is so important when you live alone.” –Helen, 90
My place was too big to manage on my own
“I stayed in our condo after my second husband died. I felt the place was a little too big for me to manage by myself: there was too much to do and I was lonely — I wanted to be around other people. I had no relatives here but I wanted to stay in town so I moved to the residence. Now I don’t have the work or worry of looking after a home.” –June, 90
Whether you’re a senior like June who wants to enjoy retirement living without the hassles of housekeeping, or an adult child looking for Memory Care for a parent with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, you’ll find peace of mind and personalized senior care at Amica. If you’re still unsure, ask about respite stays trial opportunity before making long-term arrangements.
Schedule a tour to learn more about excellent amenities and activities, flexible dining and personalized support at Amica residences.