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What’s it really like inside Amica Peel Village retirement community in Brampton?

I was joined by real estate and downsizing professionals at Amica Peel Village to find out. We toured the suites, explored the amenities, met the team and enjoyed lunch from the same menu available to residents.

I’ve toured more than 140 retirement homes, and one thing I’ve learned is that every home has its own personality. You don’t always get a sense of that from a website or brochure.

That’s why we host these lunches. They give professionals who support older adults and their families an opportunity to get a firsthand taste of retirement living (literally!), ask questions, and share what they’ve learned with the people they help.

First Impressions of Amica Peel Village

Amica Peel Village is located in an established Brampton neighbourhood overlooking Etobicoke Creek, surrounded by trees, parks and walking trails.

Although it’s close to a major road, the residence has a surprisingly peaceful setting.

Michael Wright, a real estate agent with RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty, described it as:

“It’s an oasis. Even though it’s on a major street, it’s surrounded by trees with a warm feel to it.”

That welcoming atmosphere started as soon as we entered.

We met Raul, the concierge, who is a great ambassador for Amica Peel Village. He was friendly, funny and clearly comfortable chatting with residents and visitors. By the end of our visit, several guests were still talking about him.

Marie Benjamin, Community Relations Director at Amica Peel Village, hosted us for lunch and led our tour. Her enthusiasm for the residence and the people who live there was evident throughout the morning.

As we walked around, Marie introduced us to team members, explained how different spaces are used and shared stories about helping older adults and their families navigate the transition into retirement living.

Inside a One-Bedroom Suite at Amica Peel Village

One of our stops was a one-bedroom suite on the fifth floor.

The first thing I noticed was the view.

Large windows looked out over the surrounding trees, with the changing autumn colours making for a particularly nice backdrop.

But our group was just as interested in the practical details.

The suite had a huge bedroom, as well as a living area with a kitchenette balcony, and in-suite laundry. Doorways were wide, and the bathroom offered plenty of room to move around.

The shower also had a barrier-free entrance, without a raised curb to step over.

Kerry Rambalie, owner of One Source Moving Solutions, particularly appreciated the bathroom:

“Very usable space. The bathroom was pretty well done, with a walk-in shower and a lot of space for somebody who may have mobility issues.”

Michael highlighted the accessible bathroom, in-suite laundry and overall layout. Haron Afzalzada, a real estate agent and real estate investor, also appreciated the spacious suite and view.

During the tour, Marie made an observation I thought was especially relevant for anyone downsizing.

When someone walks into a suite, they’re often trying to imagine their own furniture in it.

Will the bed fit? Is there room for a favourite chair? Can they bring the dining table they’ve had for decades?

Marie explained that she spends time learning what matters most to each person before recommending a particular suite.

It’s a reminder that moving into retirement living isn’t simply about finding a room. It’s about finding a space that works for someone’s lifestyle, belongings and changing needs.

What Stood Out About the Amenities?

Amica Peel Village has plenty of amenities, but what interested me most was how residents actually use them.

The Swimming Pool

One of the favourites among our group was the indoor swimming pool.

Marie told us the water is kept as warm, making it comfortable for activities such as Aquafit.

Kerry and Valeria both noticed the procedure for residents using the pool. Because there isn’t a lifeguard on duty, Marie explained that residents are given a tag so the team is aware they’re using the space.

The Gardening Centre

The gardening centre was a favourite for Michael, who regularly works with a lot of older adults downsizing into retirement living.

“I have a lot of clients that still like to garden. So the gardening room, where they can still till the soil and pot plants, is really a bonus.”

Residents can participate in gardening activities, including preparing plants for outdoor spaces around the residence.

It’s a good example of how retirement living can allow someone to continue enjoying a hobby they may have had for decades.

The Theatre, Library and Other Spaces

We also visited the library, cafe, billiards area, home theatre and hair salon.

The theatre is used for movies, presentations, educational sessions and religious services. Valeria particularly liked that residents can suggest movies they’d like to watch.

Marie also explained that residents can arrange for their own hairstylist or barber to use the on-site salon.

Throughout the main floor, there are places to sit, read, socialize or enjoy some quiet time.

The residence offers activities such as chair yoga, tai chi and Drum Fit, along with outings and social events. Marie said the morning fitness programs are among the most popular activities at Amica Peel Village.

Care That Can Change With Residents’ Needs

One of the most important things Marie explained was how Amica Peel Village supports residents as their care needs change.

The residence offers Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care, along with respite and short-term stays.

Marie explained that there are two Assisted Living neighbourhoods and a separate Memory Care neighbourhood, with staffing adjusted according to residents’ needs.

The team described being able to support a wide range of care needs, including significant physical assistance, complex care and end-of-life support, depending on the individual’s circumstances.

One question I always encourage families to ask when touring a retirement home is what happens if their loved one’s care needs increase?

Amica Peel Village offers a continuum of care, which allows someone to receive additional support without having to move to another residence.

That doesn’t mean every care need can be accommodated, but it’s an important conversation to have before making a decision.

Haron highlighted this after the tour:

“I love that you can stay in one place as you go through the different stages.”

Michael appreciated that aspect too, particularly the possibility of receiving additional physical or cognitive support without necessarily having to move again.

For families comparing retirement homes in Brampton, understanding which levels of care are available can make a significant difference when planning for the future.

Getting to Know the Person Behind the Care Plan

What I found especially interesting was Marie’s explanation of how the team gets to know prospective residents.

Rather than immediately recommending a suite, she wants to understand the person, their background, their preferences, their care needs and what matters most to them.

That same philosophy extends to memory care.

Marie described how the Amica team looks beyond a person’s actions to better understand why something might be happening, including whether an unmet need could be contributing to distress.

She also spoke about the importance of learning residents’ life stories and preferences so care can be tailored to the individual.

During our interview, I asked Marie what someone should know about the care offered at Amica Peel Village.

Her answer focused on meeting people where they are and learning how they prefer to be cared for.

I also appreciated her invitation to families who are only beginning to think about retirement living.

You don’t need to be ready to move to book a tour.

Marie encouraged people to visit, ask questions and learn about their options before they need to make a decision.

And Then There Was Lunch

After our tour, it was time to put Amica’s dining to the test.

All Amica retirement residences have Red Seal-qualified chefs and offers restaurant-style dining, including daily specials and an à-la-carte menu.

Marie explained that the kitchen accommodates different dietary needs and preferences, including vegetarian meals and modified food textures when required.

Our group ordered from the same menu available to residents that day.

There daily special was a meatball sandwich special, and there was a variety of a la cate options including sandwiches, burger and fries, salads, omelettes and more.

I decided to try the meatball sandwich special, while several of our guests went with the burger and fries.

The burgers were a hit.

Haron described his as tasting like it came from a professional restaurant.

Valeria had a similar reaction:

“The lunch was absolutely amazing. I had a beef burger with incredible fries.”

Kerry enjoyed the soup followed by a burger and fries, and Michael also complimented the meal and attentive dining staff.

I had the meatball sandwich, and it was delicious.  I would have been very happy with my sandwich if I bought it from an Italian hot table.

Dessert was another highlight, with apple coffee cake and ice cream being the most popular choice to round out lunch.

We weren’t simply being served a special meal prepared for a visiting group. We were experiencing the dining options available to residents that day.

And that’s one of the reasons I enjoy hosting these lunches.

When a family asks whether the food at a retirement home is any good, these professionals can now share their own experience at Amica Peel Village.

Meet the Professionals Who Joined Me

The professionals who joined me at Amica Peel Village support older adults and families in different ways, from real estate and downsizing to moving services and more.

Each brought a different perspective to the tour, based on the work they do with older adults and their families.

Kerry Rambalie, One Source Moving Solutions

Kerry Rambalie is the owner of One Source Moving Solutions in Caledon, serving communities including Georgetown, Bolton, Kleinburg, Mono and surrounding areas.

His team helps older adults and families with downsizing, moving, estate clearouts and preparing homes for sale.

Kerry explained that his team works with families to understand what furniture and belongings will fit into a new retirement residence suite, then helps arrange everything to make the new space feel familiar.

At Amica Peel Village, he particularly appreciated the accessible suite, swimming pool and range of on-site services.

Haron Afzalzada, Right at Home Realty and Nest Investments

Haron Afzalzada is a real estate agent with Right at Home Realty and a real estate investor with Nest Investments.

He helps homeowners understand their options, whether that means selling a property as-is, making improvements before listing, downsizing to a smaller home or exploring retirement living.

Haron highlighted the spacious suite, accessible bathroom, library, billiards room and heated swimming pool.

He also appreciated Amica’s ability to provide different levels of care as residents’ needs change.

Noah Do Paco, Coldwell Banker

Noah Do Paco is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker who joined us for lunch and a tour of Amica Peel Village.

Michael Wright, RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty

Michael Wright is a real estate agent with RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty who specializes in helping people find the right place to live as they get older.

Michael explained that his approach starts with understanding why someone is considering a move, followed by what they need, where they want to live and how to make the transition happen.

He particularly liked the gardening centre, accessible suite design and the possibility of receiving additional care without necessarily moving to another residence.

Michael also had plenty of good things to say about Raul and the welcoming atmosphere at Amica Peel Village.

Valeria Perepeliuk, SERVPRO Team Robertson

Valeria Perepeliuk is with SERVPRO Team Robertson, which provides emergency property restoration services following incidents such as fires and water damage.

Her team helps homeowners and families respond to unexpected property emergencies and restore their living spaces.

At Amica Peel Village, Valeria particularly enjoyed the swimming pool, movie theatre and accessible bathroom design.

She described the residence as a community-focused environment where people make you feel welcome from the moment you enter.

My Takeaway From Amica Peel Village

One thing I’ve learned from touring retirement homes is that no two are exactly alike.

At Amica Peel Village, the swimming pool, spacious suites and different levels of care were certainly worth talking about.

But some of my favourite details were much smaller.

Raul greeting people at the front desk.

A gardening room where residents can continue doing something they’ve enjoyed for years.

A bathroom designed with enough space for someone who needs assistance.

Marie taking the time to learn what matters most to someone before recommending a suite.

Those are the details that help give me a better sense of a retirement home.

Thank you to Marie Benjamin, Community Relations Director at Amica Peel Village, for welcoming us, answering our questions and giving everyone the opportunity to experience the residence firsthand.

And thank you to Kerry, Haron, Noah, Michael and Valeria for joining me and bringing your own experience supporting older adults and families to the conversation.

Exploring Retirement Homes in Brampton?

If you’re helping a parent or loved one explore retirement living, visiting a residence like Amica Peel Village is a great way to understand what’s available. But it’s also worth comparing your options before making a decision.

Elderado is a free website built by caregivers, for caregivers. You can search and compare retirement homes in Brampton and across Ontario, including information about levels of care, suite options, pricing, and availability.

Whether you’re looking for Independent Living, Assisted Living or Memory Care, long-term care or home care, Elderado can help you find the elder care that you’re looking for.

Compare retirement homes in Brampton on Elderado.

Search all elder care options.

Lunch at Sunrise of Aurora: Assisted Living and Memory Care in Aurora

One of my favourite ways to get to know a retirement home is to go for a tour, meet the team, ask lots of questions, and stay for lunch.

I recently hosted a lunch for a group of local professionals at Sunrise of Aurora, a retirement home in Aurora that offers Assisted Living, Memory Care and Short-Term Stays. I was joined by real estate professionals, a downsizing specialist and a medical equipment provider.

I’ve toured more than 140 retirement homes, and one reason I enjoy hosting these lunches is that they give professionals who already support older adults a chance to experience a specific residence firsthand and get a taste of retirement living, literally.

When we sit down for lunch, we order from the same menu available to residents that day.

That’s important parts of these lunches, because one of the primary concerns I hear from older adults considering retirement living is the food. There’s often an assumption that moving into a retirement home means giving up good meals. I’ve eaten at a lot of retirement homes over the years, and I’ve had some very good meals.

By sharing lunch with local professionals, they leave with their own firsthand experience of the food at Sunrise of Aurora, not just a brochure or someone else’s opinion. If retirement home food comes up in a future conversation, they can speak from experience.

And that’s really the idea behind these lunches. There’s a big difference between recognizing the name of a retirement home and having actually walked through it, met the team, experienced the environment and tasted the food yourself.

At Sunrise of Aurora, we toured a model suite, Assisted Living and the Reminiscence memory care neighbourhood before sitting down for lunch.

A Home-Like Feel at Sunrise of Aurora

Sunrise of Aurora offers Assisted Living, Memory Care and Short-Term Stays in Aurora, Ontario.

Abe Kaadan, Director and Partner at TrinityMed, described it as a “beautiful, mansion-style community.”

Rebekah Murdoch of Sanctuary Home Services, who has previously helped clients move into Sunrise, said the design feels more like a bed and breakfast than a traditional retirement residence.

Smaller sitting areas, sunrooms, gardens and outdoor spaces are spread throughout the residence rather than everything being concentrated in one large common area.

There are also a couple of residents you won’t find on the official occupancy list.

Princess, the residence cat, was born and raised at Sunrise of Aurora and spends her days coming and going from the building. There’s also Yogurt, the resident budgie. Sunrise is pet friendly, and residents can bring their own pets provided they can manage their care.

It’s a small detail, but helps make it feel like home.

Inside a Sunrise of Aurora Model Suite

One of our first stops was a model suite.

Alyssa Cohen, Broker with Forest Hill Real Estate, immediately noticed the space and natural light.

“What stood out to me the most about the model suites is how bright, airy and spacious they are. There is lots of room for storage and you could easily make this feel like a home.”

Megan Graci, Broker with RE/MAX Hallmark, had a similar reaction.

“They feel more like a home than an institution, which I think is really important when someone is making such a big transition.”

Residents furnish their own suites, allowing them to bring familiar furniture, artwork, photos and other pieces from home.

I also noticed some practical accessibility details: a fridge raised off the floor, cordless window coverings, bathroom grab bars, an adjustable showerhead and a soft threshold into the shower.

Call strings in the suite and bathroom connect residents with the care team when assistance is needed.

Sunrise offers several suite configurations including studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and companion suites.

 

The People Behind the Care

One of the things Sharon Woolfson, Director of Sales at Sunrise of Aurora, pointed out that I loved was a picture frame.

On each floor, Sunrise of Aurora displays photos of its care managers along with how long they’ve worked at the residence.

We saw team members with tenures of 9, 10, 12, 14, 17 and even 20 years.

Alyssa highlighted it after the tour:

“I love that there are pictures of the caregivers on every floor, so they’re easily identifiable. And it also shows how long each of them have worked here.”

That familiarity can help the team learn a resident’s routines, preferences and what is normal for that person.

The Sunrise team also emphasized that care is individualized. Two residents receiving the same general level of care may require very different types of support.

Sunrise of Aurora can support needs ranging from reminders and assistance with activities of daily living through to more significant care needs. The team also discussed working alongside outside healthcare resources, including Ontario Health atHome and palliative care supports when appropriate.

For Abe, the people ultimately stood out most:

“The genuine care the team has for its residents was clear throughout the visit.”

Memory Care at Sunrise of Aurora – Reminiscence

Sunrise Senior Living calls it’s secure memory care neighbourhood for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia Reminiscence.

The living area is designed so residents can walk continuously around it rather than reaching the end of a hallway. There are visual cues between areas, sitting spaces, activity areas, a dining room and an enclosed outdoor balcony.

But what stood out was the way the team talked about the residents living there.

Someone walking around the floor isn’t automatically described as “wandering.” They may be exploring.

What might traditionally be called a “behaviour” can instead be viewed as an expression, with the team considering whether that person may be communicating an unmet need.

Jerome, a team member on the Reminiscence floor, gave us an example. A resident might repeatedly sit near the elevator because they want to “go home.” Rather than simply telling them they can’t leave, the team can try to understand what they’re feeling, validate it and redirect them towards something meaningful.

That philosophy carries into activities too.

Families provide information about a resident’s history so the team can understand what has been important throughout that person’s life.

We heard about one resident who had owned a restaurant for decades and now enjoys spending time in the kitchen folding napkins. For someone else, that connection might come through gardening, cooking, sorting or another familiar task.

As Sharon explained, sometimes it’s helpful to learn not only what someone enjoys today, but what they enjoyed doing 30 or 40 years ago.

Residents in Reminiscence can also participate in appropriate programming elsewhere in the residence, spend time outdoors and join outings.

Rebekah has firsthand experience helping clients with memory loss move into Sunrise:

“I’ve had clients who’ve moved in five different places in less than two years, and only Sunrise was able to meet their needs as they continued in their memory care support.”

Staying Active and Connected

As we moved through Sunrise, regular life was happening around us.

Residents were playing trivia as we walked through one common area. We saw spaces used for reading, puzzles, baking and other activities.

Sunrise of Aurora also has a men’s group, with activities that have included beer and wing nights, sports, whisky tastings and lunches out.

Megan said the range of activities was one of her favourite parts of the residence:

“There are so many different options so residents can stay active, social and engaged while still having the freedom to choose what they enjoy.”

Exercise programming is offered five days a week.

Outside, there are gardens and a walking path. The recreation team also organizes “stroll and roll” outings so residents who need assistance can get outside with support.

What Was for Lunch at Sunrise of Aurora?

Since the food is an important part of these visits, we ordered from the same lunch menu available to residents that day.

Around our table were steak and cheese salads, barbecue chicken, turkey and cheddar on rye, omelettes, tomato basil soup, corn chowder and citrus avocado salads.

Residents order their meals at the table, and the dining team has information about individual dietary needs, allergies, likes and dislikes.

Saman Habibi of DR Real Estate Group ordered the barbecue chicken with sweet potato fries and vegetables and said, “The flavours were great.”

Megan had the citrus avocado salad and tomato soup. Alyssa had tomato basil soup and an omelette. But there was one item that generated more conversation than anything else.

The apple crisp.

Served warm with vanilla ice cream, it quickly became a favourite. Abe called it the highlight of his lunch, and Rebekah said it reminded her of having dessert at home.

We came to get a taste of retirement living, and Sunrise certainly gave us something to talk about.

Meet the Professionals Who Joined Me

Everyone around the table already works with older adults and families navigating major life changes.

Abe Kaadan, TrinityMed

Abe Kaadan, Director and Partner at TrinityMed, helps seniors, families and healthcare professionals with medical, mobility, accessibility and home care equipment.

For Abe, the sunroom was a favourite space, but he also highlighted the activities, community pets and care he saw from the Sunrise team.

Alyssa Cohen, Forest Hill Real Estate

Alyssa Cohen is a Broker with Forest Hill Real Estate who helps people buy and sell homes and plan what’s next, including older adults making a transition from a longtime home.

She compared the social side of retirement living at Sunrise to a cruise ship, with companionship, activities and meals all nearby.

Megan Graci, RE/MAX Hallmark

Megan Graci is a Broker with RE/MAX Hallmark with more than 13 years of real estate experience throughout York Region and the GTA, including helping clients through downsizing and other major life transitions.

She described Sunrise as:

“Warm, welcoming and very homelike, with beautiful spaces, great activities and a strong sense of community.”

Michelle Haick, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Centre

Michelle Haick is a Senior Real Estate Specialist with Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Centre in Newmarket with more than 30 years of real estate experience.

She helps older homeowners and their families transition from longtime family homes and said Sunrise of Aurora is among the options she considers when clients ask about moving to retirement living.

Rebekah Murdoch, Sanctuary Home Services

Rebekah Murdoch of Sanctuary Home Services provides hands-on support to older adults, including downsizing, attending appointments and helping set up a new residence to feel familiar.

Her work sometimes starts long before moving day, helping clients gradually decide what to keep, give to family or let go.

Saman Habibi, DR Real Estate Group

Saman Habibi is a Real Estate Agent with DR Real Estate Group serving Durham Region and the GTA, including helping older adults downsize.

His team also hosts educational seminars at retirement residences on topics relevant to older adults and their families.

Saman summed up his impression of Sunrise:

“Feels like home, feels like a cottage. You come in and you feel like you’re part of a family.”

My Takeaway From Sunrise of Aurora

After touring more than 140 retirement homes, one thing I’ve learned is that no two are exactly alike.

That’s why I think getting inside them matters.

There were some big things that stood out at Sunrise of Aurora: the long tenure of some care team members, individualized support, the Reminiscence approach to memory care and opportunities for residents to stay active and connected.

There were also so many small details that stood out.  I love the windows in the hallways that give the feel of walking through the neighbourhood, and raising the fridge up off the ground makes it so much more accessible.

Thank you to Sharon Woolfson, Tiziana Evangelista, and Sarah Soleymany for welcoming us, answering our questions and giving us the opportunity to experience the residence firsthand.

And thank you to Abe, Alyssa, Megan, Michelle, Rebekah and Saman for joining me and bringing your own experience supporting older adults and families to the conversation.

Looking for a Retirement Home in Aurora?

If you’re helping a parent or someone you love explore retirement living, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Elderado is a free website built by caregivers, for caregivers. You can use Elderado to search, filter and compare retirement homes in Aurora and across Ontario, including information about care options, suites, pricing and availability where available.

elderado.ca/search

Whether you’re just starting to understand retirement living or actively looking for a home for someone you love, Elderado is designed to make it easier to understand your options and decide which homes you want to explore further.

I’ve toured a lot of retirement homes, and the things that make a home memorable aren’t always the biggest or flashiest amenities.

Sometimes it’s the little things you notice while you’re there.

I recently spent the day at Lanark Village in Kitchener, and what stood out to me most was how comfortable people seemed to be. Residents stopped to talk with each other. Team members knew residents by name and what they like. There were cozy places to sit throughout the home, beautiful gardens outside, and residents who were genuinely involved in their community.

A Retirement Home Surrounded by Green Space

The outdoor spaces are one of the first things that stood out to me.

Lanark Village is located in Kitchener’s Forest Heights neighbourhood, surrounded by green space, with a walking path around the property and access to a trail just off campus.

There are gardens, patios and plenty of places to sit outside, but my favourite part was seeing how residents have made some of the outdoor space their own.

That includes the raised garden beds.

I met resident Don beside the garden, where he told me about growing tomatoes, cucumbers, basil and other vegetables being grown in the garden beds by residents.

Gardening isn’t new to Don. It goes all the way back to his childhood and his grandfather’s garden.

Now he’s continuing it at Lanark Village.

“We love it. We love doing it. And I can assure you that the residents love it as well. They stop there and talk and chat.”

Some of what they grow even makes its way to the culinary team, including basil and cucumbers.

But what I liked most about Don’s story was that the garden wasn’t really just about vegetables.

It’s beside the walking path, so other residents regularly stop to see what’s growing and have a conversation – or gossip on the right way to grow tomatoes!

A Simple Way for Residents to Have a Voice

I was introduced to Don to learn more about the Thumbs Up and Thumbs Down cards.

The idea is incredibly simple.

Residents and their loved ones can fill out a green Thumbs Up card when there’s something they appreciate or someone they want to recognize.

They can use a red Thumbs Down card when there’s something they think could be improved.

Don’s Thumbs Up card was for the gardening team, thanking them for the plants, materials, advice and assistance they provided to help residents establish their 2026 vegetable garden.

It’s a small example, but I think the program says something important about the culture of a retirement home.

It creates a simple, visible way for residents to say both “I appreciate this” or “I think this could be better.”

And then I met Betty.

“Talk to the Residents”

Betty had written a Thumbs Up card about the program itself.

When I asked her about it, she told me something that I think anyone touring a retirement home should hear:

“Talk to the residents.”

It’s simple advice, but it’s good advice.

When you tour a retirement home, you’ll see the building, suites and amenities. You’ll meet the people whose job it is to show you around.

Residents experience the home every day.

Betty talked openly with me about things she had raised with the team, her experience with the food, and how staff have gotten to know her routines and preferences.

For example, Betty prefers her main meal at lunch and something lighter at dinner.

The dining team knows that.

“They already know from the kitchen, ‘Oh yeah, Betty.’”

That might seem like a small thing. But those small things can be what make somewhere feel like home.

Food Is a Big Deal at Lanark Village

I heard about the food from more than one resident during my visit.

And I pay attention when residents are the ones telling me that.

Lanark Village offers meals in its dining room as well as more casual options, with food also playing a role in activities and social life.

But my favourite part of our conversation was hearing about baking.

Betty loves to cook and bake, and the team knows it. She told me they’ll ask for her opinion and incorporate residents’ suggestions.

She has even brought some of her own recipes into the home’s baking activities, including a chocolate chip cake.

As Betty put it:

“She always gets me involved, which I like. That feels like home.”

I think that’s a great example of the difference between simply providing activities and creating opportunities for residents to continue doing the things they’ve always enjoyed.

Lots of Places to Spend Your Day

Lanark Village has plenty of amenities, but what I liked was the variety.

One of my favourite spots in the entire home might also have the best view from a puzzle table I’ve seen in senior living.

The puzzle table sits in front of a huge window overlooking the walking path and the forest beyond it. It’s a simple space, but I loved it. You can sit down, work on a puzzle, watch people walking by and look out into the trees.

There’s a café, craft kitchen, fitness centre, library, dining room and Forestview Lounge, along with gardens, patios and other sitting areas throughout the home.

The spaces don’t all feel the same, either.

Some are designed for activities and socializing. Others are quieter places where you can read, have a coffee or spend some time with a friend or family member.

Throughout my day, I kept seeing residents and team members interacting in these spaces.

That contributed to the overall feeling I got from Lanark Village. It felt cozy, active and lived-in.

Not like a building full of amenities waiting to be used, but a home where people were actually using them.

Suites Designed for Different Needs

Lanark Village offers different accommodation and support options depending on what someone needs.

Residents can choose from a variety of suite layouts, including one and two-bedroom options, with kitchenettes and private bathrooms available.

The home also offers different levels of support, from Independent Living to Independent Supportive Living and Enriched Care.

We had an opportunity to step inside several suites during my visit, including two different studio layouts.

For someone considering Lanark Village, seeing the suites on video can give you an idea of the space, but I’d still recommend touring in person. How a suite feels and how it connects to the rest of the home can be difficult to judge from dimensions or photos alone.

What Made Lanark Village Stand Out to Me

By the end of the day, I didn’t leave Lanark Village thinking primarily about any one amenity.

I thought about Don and the tomatoes.

I thought about Betty telling families to talk to the residents.

I thought about the kitchen knowing Betty prefers a lighter dinner, and the baking program incorporating one of her old recipes.

I thought about the residents stopping beside the raised garden beds to see what was growing on a stroll on the walking path.

And I thought about how often I saw team members talking and engaging with residents as I walked through the home.

The walking trails, gardens, café, craft kitchen, fitness centre, library and forest view lounge certainly add to the experience. But what made the home feel special to me was seeing residents participating in the community rather than simply living in it.

Considering Lanark Village in Kitchener?

If you’re exploring retirement homes in Kitchener for yourself or an aging loved one, Lanark Village is a home I’d encourage you to experience in person.

Tour the suites. Walk through the gardens. See the amenities. Ask about the different levels of care.

And take Betty’s advice:

Talk to the residents.

They may tell you more about what it’s really like to live there than anyone else can.

Learn more about Lanark Village.

Amica Credit Mills is one of those retirement homes where there’s a lot to explore.

Located in Mississauga, it offers a full continuum of care of Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Respite Care, with everything from studio suites to premium two-bedroom suites. There’s also an indoor pool, bistro, theatre, fitness studio, craft kitchen, games room, beautiful outdoor spaces, and two incredible dedicated Memory Care floors.

I got an in-depth look at the residence when Elderado and Amica Credit Mills hosted a lunch and tour together for local professionals who support older adults and their families.

Tami Smith, Community Relations Director at Amica Credit Mills, took us through the home, and there were a few things that really stood out to me.

One Home With a Full Continuum of Care

One of the biggest strengths of Amica Credit Mills is the range of care available within the residence.

Amica Credit Mills offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Respite or Short-Term Stays.

For someone who is largely independent, Independent Living provides a maintenance-free lifestyle with dining, activities, amenities and the ability to add support as needed.

Assisted Living provides additional help with daily activities, with a wellness team and nurse on-site 24/7. Support can include medication management, bathing, dressing, mobility, continence care and other health and personal care needs.

For people living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, there are two dedicated floors of Memory Care.

Having these options within one residence is significant. Someone may move into a retirement home when they’re still quite independent, but their needs at 85 may look very different from their needs at 90.

For older adults hoping to age in place, having multiple levels of care available within the same community can provide some peace of mind about what happens if those needs change.

Memory Care Is Something Special

Memory Care was one of the biggest highlights for me.

I tour a lot of retirement homes, and when I’m touring Memory Care, I’m interested in much more than the suites. I want to see the environment residents actually live in throughout the day.

At Amica Credit Mills, Memory Care occupies two dedicated floors, with dining, activity and social spaces designed specifically for people living with dementia.

One of the most interesting features is the specialized elevator connecting the two Memory Care floors. It allows residents to move between the floors while remaining within the secure Memory Care area.

That gives residents access to more space and more variety without compromising the security of the Memory Care environment.

Another feature that caught my attention was the Tovertafel.

The Tovertafel is an interactive system that projects games and activities onto a table. Residents can interact with the projections using their hands, creating opportunities for movement, engagement and social interaction.

Memory Care residents also have access to specialized programming, including sensory activities, music therapy and one-on-one time.

What stood out to me was that Memory Care feels like its own community within Amica Credit Mills rather than simply another section of the residence.

For families considering Memory Care, that’s an important distinction.

A Lot of Choice in Where You Live

We toured a variety of suites throughout Amica Credit Mills, and there’s a significant range in what retirement living can look like here.

Amica Credit Mills offers studios, one-bedroom suites, one-bedroom plus den suites, and two-bedroom suites, with different layouts and features depending on the level of care.

One of the standouts was a two-bedroom Premium Independent Living model suite.

Two-bedroom suites range from approximately 775 to 1,081 square feet. Premium options can include a full kitchen, and select layouts offer private balconies.

For someone downsizing from a house or larger condo, it’s a good example of how moving into a retirement home doesn’t necessarily mean moving into a small studio.

We also saw a one-bedroom Independent Living model suite, which provided a completely different option with a separate bedroom and living area in a more compact footprint.

One-bedroom suites at Amica Credit Mills range from approximately 524 to 759 square feet.

In Assisted Living, we toured a studio suite, showing how a smaller, easier-to-navigate space can work for someone receiving more day-to-day support.

Studio suites range from approximately 379 to 516 square feet.

Throughout the suites, there were thoughtful accessibility features like wide doorways, grab bars and accessible bathrooms.

I’m particularly fond of the curbless showers.

It’s not the flashiest feature you’ll see on a retirement home tour, but it’s exactly the kind of thoughtful design that can matter as someone gets older. Removing the curb makes getting into the shower easier and eliminates a potential trip hazard.

Amenities You’ll Actually Want to Use

Amica Credit Mills has an impressive amenity list.

There’s an indoor pool, fitness studio, theatre, games room with billiards, craft kitchen, bistro, library, salon and spa, sitting areas, patios and terraces.

But I’m less interested in how many amenities a retirement home can put on a brochure and more interested in what those spaces actually feel like.

At Amica Credit Mills, there were a lot of spaces I could genuinely picture residents using.

The bistro was one of my favourites. It’s a beautiful, casual space where residents can grab something to eat or drink, meet a friend, or spend time with family outside of the main dining room.

The theatre, games room and craft kitchen provide completely different ways to spend an afternoon.

And there are plenty of smaller sitting areas throughout the residence.

Those may not get the same attention as a swimming pool, but I think they’re important. Not every social interaction needs to be a scheduled activity. Sometimes you just want somewhere comfortable to sit with a neighbour or family member.

The Outdoor Spaces Deserve a Mention

The outdoor spaces were another highlight for me.

Amica Credit Mills has patios, terraces, gardens and outdoor sitting areas that feel like extensions of the indoor common spaces rather than an afterthought.

For residents who enjoy being outside, having comfortable and accessible outdoor spaces can make a meaningful difference to everyday life, particularly during the warmer months.

Lunch With Local Professionals

After touring the residence, we sat down for lunch with Tami and a group of local professionals who support older adults and their families:

• Nicole Galeotalanza, Certified Case Manager, Life Care Planner and Life Coach at Tri-Star Health
• Brian Cowan, Real Estate Agent & Broker, Transition With Ease | Keller Williams Empowered Realty
• Michael Wright, Real Estate Agent, Every Avenue | Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
• Val Malysheva, Brand Ambassador, Gordon’s Downsizing & Estate Services
• Jodi Binning, Business Development Manager, Elder Care Transitions
• Tyler Rudublo, Program Manager, Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation

Together, the group brought expertise in real estate, downsizing, senior transitions, care planning, health, and aging and brain health innovation.

Elderado and Amica Credit Mills hosted the afternoon together to give these professionals an opportunity to experience the residence firsthand.

Many of them work directly with older adults and Sandwich Generation caregivers who are trying to understand their senior living and care options. Seeing a retirement home firsthand helps professionals better understand the options available when those conversations happen.

And, of course, we got to experience the dining.

Caesar salad with grilled chicken was definitely the popular choice around the table, while other dishes included golden mushroom soup, grilled cheese, sandwiches and a tofu and vegetable noodle bowl.

What Stood Out to Me About Amica Credit Mills

If I had to narrow our visit down to a few things, I’d start with the continuum of care.

There are options for someone who is highly independent, someone who needs more day-to-day assistance, and someone who requires dedicated Memory Care. Respite and Short-Term Stays add another option for families who may need temporary support.

I’d also put Memory Care high on the list. The two dedicated floors, specialized elevator, Tovertafel, programming and common spaces make it feel like a purpose-built community within the larger residence.

Then there’s the choice.

Choice in suites. Choice in care. Choice in where to eat. Choice in activities. Choice in whether you want to swim, exercise, watch a movie, work on a craft, sit in the bistro or head outside.

That combination is what stood out to me most.

If you’re looking at retirement homes in Mississauga for yourself or an aging loved one, Amica Credit Mills is one I’d recommend experiencing in person.

A website can tell you that a retirement home has a pool, Memory Care or two-bedroom suites. Walking through the residence gives you a much better sense of how all of those pieces come together and whether it feels like somewhere you could call home.

Learn more about Amica Credit Mills.

I recently had the opportunity to tour Amica Glen Abbey ahead of its opening, getting a look inside before the first residents move in on August 4, 2026.

Located at 2330 Khalsa Gate in Oakville, Amica Glen Abbey is Amica Senior Lifestyles’ newest retirement residence and offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Short Stay options.

Here’s what stood out during my visit.

First Impressions

Walking through the front entrance, it’s immediately clear that Amica Glen Abbey has been designed to feel bright, welcoming, and elegant.

You’d be forgiven if you’re first impression mistakes Amica Glen Abbey for an upscale resort. The finishes throughout are premium and modern, creating a warm residence I’d be proud to call home.

Amenities Designed to Bring People Together

Amica Glen Abbey has created places where residents can naturally spend time together throughout the day.  The Amenities include:

• Bistro
• Restaurant-style dining room
• Private dining room
• Craft kitchen
• Theatre
• Library
• Fitness centre
• Indoor pool
• Hair salon and spa
• Large outdoor patio

Each space has its own personality, giving residents plenty of options depending on how they want to spend their day.

Bistro

Dining Room

Theatre

Pool

Fitness Studio

Salon & Spa

Patio off the dining room & solarium

Memory Care Designed With Purpose

We also toured the dedicated Memory Care neighbourhood on the second floor.

Like the rest of the residence, the focus is on creating a comfortable, welcoming environment while supporting the unique needs of residents living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

One feature that immediately stood out was the large L-shaped wraparound terrace.

The outdoor space provides residents with a secure place to enjoy fresh air while taking in views of the surrounding neighbourhood.

Inside, residents have access to their own dining room, café, and activity spaces designed specifically for Memory Care programming.

The overall design feels calm, spacious, and thoughtfully planned.

Memory Care Tour

Memory Care Terrace

Secured Memory Care Floor

Touring a 1 Bedroom Independent Living Suite

We also had the opportunity to tour a one-bedroom Independent Living suite on the sixth floor.

Like other Amica communities, the suite balances comfort with accessibility.

An open layout, accessible washroom, and quality finishes create a space that feels like a modern condominium while supporting residents as their needs change over time.

One feature I particularly appreciated was the curbless shower, which makes the bathroom easier to navigate while reducing potential trip hazards. In-suite laundry is also a big plus.

Living Area

Bedroom

Going from the bedroom to the bathroom

Walking out to the balcony

A terrace with a view

After touring the model suite, we stepped out onto the sixth-floor terrace.

The terrace has views to the north, west, and south, providing plenty of seating and outdoor space for residents to enjoy throughout the day.

Outdoor spaces are often some of the most popular areas in a retirement residence, and this one offers a beautiful place to relax, socialize, or simply enjoy the view.

Sixth Floor Terrace

Care That Can Evolve Over Time

One of the advantages of Amica Glen Abbey is the range of care available within the same community.

Residents can choose from:

• Independent Living
• Assisted Living
• Memory Care
• Short Stay and Respite Care

For many families, this provides peace of mind knowing additional support is available if care needs change in the future.

Amica’s wellness team is available 24 hours a day, with personalized wellness plans developed to help residents maintain their independence while receiving the support they need.

Final Thoughts

Having previously toured the Amica Glen Abbey Presentation Centre, it was exciting to see the finished residence come to life.

The solarium stood as as an amazing space where I would spend a lot of time, especially during the colder months to get some sun while staying inside.

The suites are thoughtfully designed, the outdoor spaces look great with a lot of potential, and I was impressed with all the spaces and amenities on Memory Care.

Amica Glen Abbey is a premium retirement living option. For anyone exploring premium retirement living in Oakville, Amica Glen Abbey is certainly worth touring.

As the community welcomes its first residents on August 4, 2026, it adds another premium retirement living option for older adults looking to age in place with access to a broad range of amenities, services, and personalized care.

Learn More About Amica Glen Abbey

Visit the Amica Glen Abbey page to see photos, care options, and contact information, or book a tour to experience the community for yourself.