An estimated 1.1-million seniors in Canada experienced loneliness. And, studies also show increased isolation is linked to elevated risks of death and disability, among other adverse effects.
At Amica, we don’t need statistics to tell us having choices and building meaningful relationships are essential to happiness at any age. That’s why we provide opportunities for residents to connect with each other, our team members, family and friends, as well as the community at large.
“Those interactions may look different for everyone,” says Erica Clarke, senior director of wellness at Amica. “They might include large group events, connecting residents for lunch, a team member playing cards with a resident, or inviting family and friends into the residence or on outings to share fun experiences with their loved ones.” We leave it to residents to spend their day however they like. Participating in activities is voluntary, which gives seniors freedom to choose company or relax in their suites. Here’s how everyday life at Amica offers moments of connection.
Meals become a time to nurture relationships
Sharing a meal with others is a natural way to build relationships, and that’s what happens every day in Amica dining rooms. There’s no assigned seating, so residents can try different tables and visit with neighbours while they enjoy a choice of delicious entrées prepared by Red Seal-certified chefs.
They also get to know their servers, and vice versa, which is how our staff knows Sam likes his coffee with his lunch, while Christine takes her tea afterward. Some residents are in the dining room for every meal; others prefer to wake up slowly and eat breakfast in their suites, then head to the bistro for a coffee later in the morning. Residents tell us they look forward to mealtimes so much more at Amica than they did when they were cooking and dining alone.
Common areas offer space for socializing
While Amica residents have private suites, each residence is like a well-designed neighbourhood with shared spaces for gathering in small or large groups. Instead of heading out to the local pub, coffee shop or community centre (though our seniors do that, too), neighbours wander down from their suites to shoot billiards in the games room, swap recipes in the kitchen, watch movies in the on-site cinema, or chat about current events in the lobby lounge.
It's fun and easy to keep active without leaving the residence
Some residents have kept an active lifestyle for decades and appreciate how Amica makes it easy to keep up their routines, whether that means daily walks in the neighbourhood or using our fitness centres for the treadmills or stationary bikes. Others discover they enjoy daily on-site exercise classes to socialize while trying new activities (chair volleyball, anyone?!) or maintaining or regaining mobility, without having to worry about getting to an off-site gym.
Join clubs, start hobbies, or connect with others on your current passions
What’s better than spending time nurturing a hobby? Sharing it with others. There’s a good chance you’ll find others in every Amica residence who share your passion, whether it’s reading, baking, playing games, or crafting. We’ve watched residents bond over everything from bridge games to ballroom dancing to book-club discussions.
Regular and special events mean social calendars still fill up
On top of regular daily programs aimed at giving our residents ways to enrich their lives physically, intellectually, socially and spiritually, we also fill our monthly calendar with weekly, monthly, and seasonal events. That might include an evening of dancing, a carnival day, a special themed dinner, a guest lecture, a live performance by visiting musicians, or an afternoon sharing cinnamon buns and hot chocolate.
Every residence team listens to the wishes of those that live there and plans accordingly. Routines are comforting, yet we find everyone enjoys having something special to look forward to.
Outings and bus trips offer days to explore outside the residence
While you can’t beat the convenience of having quality amenities under the Amica roof, we love getting out as much as our residents, which is why we organize regular bus trips around the neighbourhood and beyond. That includes routine outings to local shopping malls, churches, temples, and restaurants, plus special trips to museums, theatres, conservation areas or beaches.
You'll be surrounded by great amenities, flexible dining, activities, and personalized support at Amica. Book your personal visit today.