Retirement Suites By The Lake (RSBL) is situated close to my own home and is a landmark I have driven past countless times over the years. It is a building that has always occupied a space in my peripheral awareness, partly because I have known several peers whose parents once lived there. Through my recent engagement with the residence, I discovered that a significant majority of the residents are long-standing members of the local community. They are choosing to age in place within the neighborhood they already know and love.

The location itself is one of its most striking features, perfectly positioned near some of the city’s most breathtaking natural spaces, including Rosetta McClain Gardens, the scenic beaches, and the Scarborough Bluffs. Beyond its geographic appeal, the building possesses a unique physical character owing to its past life as a former hotel. Walking in for my tour with Kathleen, I felt a distinct sense of both familiarity and intrigue. 

During my visit, I also uncovered fascinating local history. The site was originally home to the historic White Castle Inn, a grand structure built in the late 1800s. Tragically, the original inn was destroyed by fire in 1955, but a new structure was quickly rebuilt on the exact same footprint. This second building ultimately evolved into the modern retirement residence we see today, carrying forward a long history of resilience and hospitality.

The Vibrant Lifestyle: Independent Living

There are 92 suites in total at RSBL, currently housing approximately 86 residents. About 60% of this population is in the Independent Living program. As I toured the home with Kathleen, it was immediately evident that these residents are thriving and highly active. The atmosphere does not feel like a traditional facility but rather a lively community of adults. For example, we stopped to chat with one resident who was glowing with excitement after returning from a two-week sunny vacation abroad.

The social energy of the building was palpable throughout the tour. In the dining room, I saw staff members engaging in genuine laughter with residents as they prepared the tables for dinner. In the lounge areas, I observed groups of residents simply chatting and laughing together. In one area, a resident sat comfortably with her dog, while chatting with a friend, illustrating the pet-friendly and relaxed nature of the home. It truly felt like a place where connection is the priority, with its laid-back and inclusive vibe.

Because the building was originally a hotel, the suites are considerably larger than the industry average. Many feature unique, non-standard layouts that you rarely find in purpose-built retirement homes. Some units include private walk-outs or balconies, and they all feel remarkably bright due to the oversized hotel-style windows. Sizes range from cozy studio suites to expansive two-bedroom, two-bathroom configurations. Every suite is equipped with individual climate controls, allowing residents to maintain their own comfort levels. Depending on the season, some residents even enjoy beautiful views of the lake.

Dining is a central part of the experience. The community shares one main dining room with two seating times for each meal to ensure a relaxed pace. Behind the high-quality menu is Red Seal Chef Ian Purdy, who brings extensive experience from high-end resorts, luxury hotels, and his own former restaurant. He views his role as more than just cooking; he is creating a culinary community. To keep things engaging, he hosts special themed events throughout the year, such as lobster dinners, which are always a highlight.

The pricing structure is transparent and all-inclusive. Residents pay a flat monthly fee based on their suite type, which covers all standard inclusions: three meals daily, afternoon tea, weekly housekeeping and laundering of linen, utilities, and all social activities. The daily exercise class is consistently the most popular event, reflecting the residents’ commitment to staying active. Additionally, the residence operates a van for weekly outings to local shops, buffet restaurants, and theatres.

Care and safety are woven into the routine without being intrusive. Personal Support Workers (PSWs) are on-site 24 hours a day, and nursing staff are present daily from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A doctor visits twice monthly, and there is a weekly podiatrist as well as an on-site physiotherapy room. Residents may also choose to supplement their care through Ontario Health at Home or by hiring private caregivers.

Personalized Care: Supportive Living

As needs change, RSBL offers tailored services through their Supportive or Assisted Living tier, which currently accounts for approximately 40% of the population. This allows residents to stay in their familiar environment even as they require more hands-on assistance.

Residents can choose extra support “a la carte,” organized into housekeeping, maintenance, and wellness. This can include daily cleaning, laundry, or practical maintenance tasks like hanging pictures. Wellness services include bathing assistance, medication administration, and dining room escorts. Unique to RSBL, PSW care is scheduled in blocks of time rather than specific tasks—for example, 15 minutes as needed or a dedicated 30 minutes daily. This provides significant flexibility for meeting individual care requirements.

While adaptable, there are clinical limits. RSBL can accommodate a resident-provided Hoyer lift but cannot care for individuals requiring a two-person assist, feeding assistance, or secure memory care for wandering behaviours. In cases where needs exceed what RSBL can provide, they often work with McCowan Retirement Residence for higher levels of clinical care.

Flexibility and Comfort: Short-Term Stays

RSBL offers several short-term stay options, including respite care for surgery recovery or stays when regular caregivers are away. They also encourage “trial stays” for those considering a permanent move. There is a simple two-week minimum, which is popular for post-operative recovery. Fittingly, the residence still maintains a dedicated hotel suite for visiting guests—a charming nod to the building’s history.

A Final Perspective: Overall Impressions

After my visit, I read through a recent newsletter and was struck by its charm. It was filled with local trivia and quirky facts, like a column dedicated to the history of bubble wrap. This captures the essence of RSBL: a community that values lifelong learning and humour. With nightly movie screenings at 7:00 p.m., it is clear that fun and friendship are built into the very fabric of daily life at Retirement Suites By The Lake.

As I arrived at Delmanor Wynford, I was immediately welcomed by the concierge, who serves as a helpful presence on-site every day from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. I was able to take some time to relax in the well-appointed lobby ahead of my tour, where I could truly admire the elegant surroundings and the warm atmosphere of the residence. Delmanor Wynford is centrally located in the heart of Don Mills, making it easily accessible via the Don Valley Parkway. However, its unique position within the valley means it is also tucked away near nature and lush green spaces. The entire environment felt remarkably serene and elegant as I began my journey through the various wings of the home. 

A Strong Focus on Independent Living

Currently, there are approximately 130 residents at Delmanor Wynford, and the community maintains a significant focus on Independent Living. It is a notably active home with a plethora of daily activities and numerous common areas for residents to congregate, whether they prefer indoor lounges or the beautifully landscaped outdoor terraces. Residents pay a flat monthly price that varies based on the size and layout of their suite, and this fee is quite comprehensive. It includes all chef-prepared meals, daily activities, an emergency medical response pendant, and weekly housekeeping services that also include the laundering of towels and bed sheets. 

In addition to these standard inclusions, every resident is part of the signature LivingWell program. In this program, residents have the opportunity to meet with a dedicated life coach once per week. The coaches work closely with residents to establish personalized exercise routines and wellness goals, with a specific focus on maintaining mobility, agility, balance, flexibility, and overall stamina. This proactive approach to health can be instrumental in reducing the risk of heart disease, increasing bone density, rehabilitating chronic back pain, and minimizing the risk of accidental falls. While these coaches have strong fitness backgrounds, they also emphasize holistic well-being by providing social and emotional support. Because of this, the LivingWell program also encompasses a variety of intellectual and social events, such as guest lectures, workshops, book clubs, and art classes. It is quite apparent that at Delmanor Wynford, there is a genuine commitment to helping residents “thrive”. Everyone is encouraged to stay active and healthy, with a wide array of supports in place to make that possible. 

Regarding health care on-site, the residence features a nursing station on the main floor that is staffed from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. There is a professional health care team on site 24 hours per day. Some residents also receive additional care through visiting providers from Ontario Health at Home. A physician visits the community once per week, and several fee-based outside providers come in regularly to offer specialized services, including professional foot care, eye care, dental care, and hearing assessments. 

Touring Around the Home

As I made my way through the home, it was a delight to see the many different areas and rooms that contribute to such a full and active lifestyle. The residence was a bustle of activity; I observed residents exercising in the fitness areas, heading out to meet friends, and reading quietly in one of the many comfortable sitting areas. One popular spot is the “Pub,” where continental breakfast is served daily, along with lunch options and refreshments in the afternoon. The main dining room, which was beautifully set for lunch during my visit, offers seven distinct meal choices each day for both lunch and dinner.

The multipurpose room is a versatile space that supports a number of activities, ranging from structured exercise programs to a gourmet demonstration kitchen where monthly cooking demos are held. In addition to the fun things to do on-site, the residence organizes four weekly bus trips, including local shopping excursions. I also learned that Tammy, the residence’s hair stylist who has been at Delmanor Wynford since it first opened, is available at the in-house hair salon three times per week. For residents who are still active drivers, reserved underground parking is available for a fee, and storage lockers are also provided for an additional charge. 

The resident suites themselves are very well-appointed and spacious. While most are one-bedroom units, there are also one-bedroom plus den and two-bedroom options available. Each suite comes equipped with its own personal washer and dryer, as well as a full-sized refrigerator. One particularly appealing feature is that almost all units include a private balcony. Furthermore, there is a stunning rooftop terrace that includes a putting green, a bocce court, a scenic walking path, and treed sitting areas. 

The residence even features a gorgeous movie theatre with its own in-house popcorn maker, which was about to be transformed into an Olympic viewing space when I visited. They play movies regularly, and residents even have the option to request their own favorites through Netflix. These amenities all work together to support a truly independent and fulfilling lifestyle. 

Supportive Living

As care needs change, residents have access to Supportive Living, where assistance is provided discreetly within the privacy of their own suites. Personal support can be added as needed, and residents typically pay for these services in increments of 15 minutes. Residents also have access to a dedicated health and wellness team to assist with personal daily living tasks, medication management, daily housekeeping, and laundry services. All care provided above what is included in the Independent Living package is offered on an a la carte basis, with several specialized packages available. 

Residents can work closely with the nursing staff to determine their specific care requirements. While Delmanor Wynford can provide a high level of care, they cannot accommodate residents who require a two-person assist or a Hoyer lift. They do offer supports for some memory care; however, if a resident becomes unsafe or begins to wander, the staff will work with the family to transition them to a more appropriate home, such as Delmanor Elgin Mills, which specializes in Assisted Living and Memory Care. 

Guest and Respite Stays

Delmanor Wynford also offers short-term respite stays for individuals who need temporary support, such as those recovering from an illness or surgery. These stays include all the standard resident amenities, along with additional services like door-side medication management, 30 minutes of daily personal support, weekly bathing assistance, and personal laundry service. For those who simply want to experience retirement living before making a permanent move, the community also offers guest stays. These short-term trial stays provide a taste of the Delmanor lifestyle without the same level of clinical care included in a respite stay. 

Overall Impressions

I ended my tour by spending some time chatting with my guide in the Conservatory, located just off the main lobby. This is a very serene and peaceful space, with sunlight streaming in and an abundance of lush greenery. Once again, I was struck by a real feeling of comfort and elegance. I left with a deep appreciation for how the environment at Delmanor Wynford empowers residents to lead active, engaged lives where they can truly thrive in their older years.

Arriving at The Millwood Retirement Residence felt less like a formal tour and more like popping into a friend’s home. Despite driving past the building many times before, I hadn’t fully realized this boutique residence was tucked away right in the heart of Toronto’s Leaside neighborhood. It blends seamlessly with the surrounding houses, schools, and local shops, feeling deeply embedded in the community rather than set apart from it. That organic connection is likely why the atmosphere felt so warm and inviting the moment I stepped inside for my visit. It doesn’t scream “institutional facility”; instead, it whispers “neighbourhood sanctuary.”

Deep Roots and Local Connection

The Millwood may be intimate in scale compared to larger modern complexes, but it maintains a vibrant and significant presence in the local area. The building is 38 years old and is currently undergoing extensive renovations designed to modernize the space without causing any sense of disruption to the residents’ daily lives. The results of these updates were immediately clear as I entered the main dining room on the ground floor. I was struck by a beautiful, muted forest-scene wall covering that anchors the room, adding an instant sense of serenity and natural beauty to the space.

The enhancements extend outdoors as well. Just off the dining room, a large new front patio is being constructed. This addition will further strengthen The Millwood’s community feel, allowing residents to sit outside and feel part of the neighborhood’s natural rhythm, waving to neighbors as they pass by. Inside, the suites are being systematically updated as they turn over, and unique new features, such as an enclosed greenhouse, are being added to the amenity list to provide year-round greenery.

The “village” feel is more than just architectural; it is deeply social. My host, Brent, shared how The Millwood maintains a close relationship with a local elementary school just down the street. The school choir visits regularly to perform for the residents, and every October, the residence hosts a special trick-or-treat experience for the students. Because many residents originally hailed from Leaside or have family living nearby, it’s quite common to see relatives and friends drop by for a quick visit while out for a stroll. Even the house beautician is a local staple, visiting the on-site hair salon twice a week for years. It is this integration into the local fabric that makes the transition to retirement living feel like a natural next step rather than a departure from one’s life.

Flexible Living, Clinical Excellence, and Personalized Care

The Millwood offers 53 suites in total. Of these, 35 are dedicated to Independent Living and can accommodate a wide range of “Select Care” options as needs evolve. For example, assistance with hygiene or mobility can be added within Select Care. The studio and one-bedroom layouts are designed with a bright, airy aesthetic that makes them feel larger than their footprint. There is a high degree of flexibility here; the philosophy is to adapt the care to the resident, meaning almost any level of support can be brought directly to any suite. This ensures that residents don’t have to move just because their needs change.

A major plus for many families: pets are warmly welcomed. The monthly fee includes the standard retirement living staples—meals, utilities, weekly housekeeping, and an emergency pendant—but it also goes a step further. The base price covers two loads of personal laundry per week and medication administration up to four times per day. It also includes one assisted bath per week, which is not common in Independent Living but is a great addition for those who may need light support with bathing. To ensure everyone is thriving, each resident undergoes a comprehensive health assessment every six months. This proactive approach allows the team to track progress and identify potential declines early, providing families with both emotional and financial lead time to prepare for changes.

The Millwood’s Select Care (similar to what other homes call Assisted Living) allows residents to add services a la carte. These six levels of care include personal support, mobility assistance, and specialized diabetes monitoring. Residents can also layer on specific needs like oxygen management, meal escorts, or daily housekeeping. On the clinical side, the operation is incredibly sophisticated. Staff utilize high-tech medication management systems involving carts that are taken door-to-door. Each resident is photo-scanned during administration to ensure absolute safety and accuracy. To streamline this, all residents use the same pharmacy, which provides prepackaged doses for every time of day.

Furthermore, an in-house Nurse Practitioner is available 16 hours per week and can actually take on residents as primary patients. In addition to the on-site PSWs and nurses, there is a doctor on call at all times. For those receiving support through Ontario Health at Home, The Millwood operates under a “cluster care” model, which often means the resident receives care from the same regular caregiver, fostering deeper trust. The residence is also equipped for complex physical needs, including two-person lift assists and Hoyer lifts, and they are one of the few boutique homes capable of providing G-tube feeding.

The heart of the home is the dining room. Rather than strict, one-hour sittings, The Millwood offers two-hour windows for each of the three daily meals. This allows residents to linger over coffee and conversation without ever feeling rushed. In addition to the standard menu, there is a daily snack cart that makes its way door-to-door: a fun and unique touch that residents clearly enjoy. For those days when a resident isn’t feeling their best, tray service to the suite is provided. As part of the Select Care offerings, families can even opt for a permanent meal delivery plan if that better suits the resident’s lifestyle.

Specialized Support and Short-Term Respite Stays

The Enhanced Care floor features 18 suites (both studios and one-bedrooms) designed for those who require a higher level of daily support but wish to remain in the familiar Millwood environment. This floor provides more dedicated, one-on-one attention, with 90 minutes of personalized care per day included, and a focus on structured daily living that provides security and comfort. The floor has its own dedicated dining area, creating a more intimate and manageable environment for those who might find the main dining room overwhelming. Enhanced Care functions as a blend of Assisted Living and Memory Care; while it features a keypad entry to prevent wandering, it is not a fully locked unit. If a resident develops needs that require specialized, 24/7 secure Memory Care, The Millwood works transparently with the family to transition them to an appropriate home in the immediate area.

The Millwood also prioritizes Respite Care, or short-term stays. These are ideal for seniors recovering from surgery or those who simply want a “trial run” of retirement living for a minimum of 30 days. Unlike many homes that only offer respite when they happen to have a vacancy, The Millwood maintains suites specifically dedicated to short-term stays. These rooms come fully furnished, though they generally follow a basic fee structure that does not include the higher levels of clinical care.

Final Impressions: A True Sense of Belonging

What truly stood out to me during my tour was the sheer adaptability of the programming and care. From the inclusion of therapy dog visits to the meticulous medication scanning system and the whimsical daily snack cart, it is clear that The Millwood is focused on meeting specific needs rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all model. I had the pleasure of meeting Ramandeep, the Activities Lead, who spoke passionately about their core strength and fall prevention exercises—the most well-attended programs on the calendar. And, of course, there is the famous “Thursday Afternoons at the Opera,” which adds a touch of culture and elegance to the week. As I left, I passed a beautiful balloon arrangement from the previous day’s birthday party. The Millwood celebrates all birthdays for that month with one big community bash. It was just one more indication that this isn’t just a place where people live: it’s a place where they are celebrated as part of a family.

Choosing the right retirement home can feel overwhelming for families. Many people are not sure what life in a retirement residence actually looks like. What are the suites like? What kind of care is available? And one question that comes up again and again: How is the food?

To help answer these questions, Elderado recently hosted a lunch with Venvi The Kensington, bringing together local professionals who support older adults and their families. The goal was simple: experience retirement living firsthand.

The event included introductions, a tour of the residence, and a lunch prepared by the culinary team at the home. It was a great opportunity to learn more about retirement living in Oakville while connecting with other professionals who help families navigate aging and care decisions.

What Is a “Lunch at” Retirement Home?

The Lunch at series is our initiative to help local professionals better understand retirement living in their area.

(Check out our blog about our Lunch at Bloom Oshawa)

Each lunch brings together a small group of professionals who work with older adults and caregivers. This can include real estate professionals, financial planners, downsizing experts, and others who often help families while they navigate this major life transitions.

The format is intentionally small and simple.

A typical lunch includes:

• Introductions and networking
• A short overview of the retirement residence
• A guided tour of the home and model suites
• Lunch served from the same menu residents enjoy

By keeping the group to about five to seven people, everyone has a chance to ask questions and share their perspective.

For some guests, this is their first time experiencing retirement living.

Lunch at Venvi The Kensington

The lunch took place at Venvi The Kensington, a beautiful retirement residence located right on Lakeshore Road near the Oakville harbour.

The event was hosted by Kerry McShane, Area Lifestyle Consultant at Venvi The Kensington, who welcomed the group and shared insight into the residence and its services.

Attendees included:

• Myra Afidchao — Regional Manager, Alivio Downsizing
• Denny Chuang — Certified Financial Planner, Eagle Partners Financial Solutions
• Brian Cowan — SRES Realtor, Transition With Ease
• Nikoo Faghihi — Financial Planner, RBC Financial Planning
• Damir Strk — Broker, RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc.

Touring Venvi The Kensington

The tour gave everyone a chance to see the a couple of model suites, and the common spaces used by the residents.

One area that stood out was the exterior courtyard, a beautiful outdoor space that immediately impressed the group. It will be a great place come spring to enjoy fresh air, gardening, or simply relax outside.

Another highlight was the library and lounge, which offers a sophisticated and comfortable place for residents to read, socialize, or enjoy quiet time.

The residence also features a wide range of amenities and common areas, including:

• Dining room and bistro
• Movie theatre
• Fitness centre
• Craft kitchen
• Recreation spaces
• Hair salon
• Communal garden
• Private dining room for family gatherings

The building also offers underground parking, elevators, and accessibility features to support residents with mobility needs.

Retirement Living Options and Care

Venvi The Kensington Oakville offers several living options to support residents as their needs change.

These include:

Independent Living
For older adults who want a maintenance-free lifestyle while enjoying social activities and services.

Independent Supportive Living
For residents who want independence but may benefit from occasional support.

Assisted Living
For residents who need more help with daily activities.

Short-Term or Respite Stays
Temporary stays for recovery, caregiver relief, or trying retirement living before making a long-term decision.

The residence offers nursing staff available seven days a week, along with optional services such as housekeeping, laundry, transportation, and on-demand care.

Let’s Talk About the Food

Food is one of the biggest concerns families have when considering a retirement home.

Many people assume the meals will be basic or institutional. In reality, many retirement residences invest heavily in dining because meals are such an important part of daily life.

Our lunch menu was identical to the residents menu for that day.

Soup

Guests could choose between:

• Vegetable noodle soup (daily special)
• Chicken noodle soup

Main Courses

Options included:

• Chicken fingers with fries, salad, and plum sauce (daily special)
• Turkey, cranberry and brie melt sandwich (a la carte feature)
• Tuna salad, egg salad, or club sandwich
• Two eggs any style with toast
• Chef salad with mixed greens, egg, and cold cuts
• Cheese, fruit, and cracker plate

One standout was the Turkey, Cranberry & Brie Melt Sandwich.

It’s very similar to a grilled cheese I enjoyed at Venvi The Kensington when I visited last summer. That grilled cheese actually won the “Eldie Award” for Best Grilled Cheese!

Dessert

Dessert options included:

• Nanaimo bar (daily special)
• Fresh baked cookies
• Ice cream
• Fresh fruit salad
• Pudding
• Jell-O

The Location: Downtown Oakville on the Harbour

Another major highlight of Venvi The Kensington Oakville is its prime location on Lakeshore Road.

The residence sits in the heart of downtown Oakville, close to the harbour and surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Within walking distance, residents can access:

• Local shops and cafés
• Parks and waterfront paths
• Places of worship
• Medical services
• Community spaces

For older adults who want to stay connected to the community, what’s within walking distance can make a big difference.

Why Events Like This Matter

Many professionals help families during major life transitions, but they may not always have the chance to experience retirement homes themselves.

Events like this help bridge that gap.

By touring the home, walking through model suites, and sharing a meal together, attendees gain a deeper understanding of what retirement living actually feels like.

That can help them better guide families who are exploring their options.

Interested in Hosting a “Lunch at” Your Retirement Residence?

Elderado hosts these lunches to help professionals understand retirement living and build stronger connections in the local senior living community.

The events are small, relaxed, and focused on conversation.

If you operate a retirement residence and would like to host a future Lunch at event, we would love to hear from you. Email Daniel with the subject line, “Lunch at [your retirement home]” to daniel@elderado.ca.

Exploring Retirement Homes in Oakville?

If you or your family are starting to explore retirement homes in Oakville, it helps to compare your options and learn what each community offers.

You can explore and compare retirement homes using Elderado here:

elderado.ca/search

If you are curious about availability at retirement residences, you can also join the Retirement Living Availability Registry:

elderado.ca/availability-registry

Finding the right retirement home starts with good information, thoughtful conversations, and sometimes even a great lunch.

You cannot talk about the magic of Alexis Lodge without first talking about its visionary founder and director, Christiana Egi. The unfiltered passion she has for Alexis Lodge is like no other I have encountered. She told me during our conversation that she effectively “eats and breathes dementia,” and that reality quickly became very clear to me. Arriving at Alexis Lodge didn’t feel like walking into a healthcare facility; instead, it felt like I was attending a warm family party in a loved one’s house, with plenty of dancing, laughing, and celebrating. My visit came on the heels of a monthly visit from dancers with Canada’s National Ballet School, and also in attendance were the local Member of Provincial Parliament and other community members. I was immediately welcomed by everyone and encouraged to interact with all the guests. It didn’t take me long to understand that Alexis Lodge is a very special place that prioritizes human connection over clinical protocol.

Beyond the Institution: A Place That Feels Like Home

Alexis Lodge first opened in 1999, and it is a small retirement living home located in Scarborough that is dedicated solely to people living with dementia. It is unlike any of the other homes I have visited, starting with the physical building itself. The residence consists of two houses sitting side by side which are attached but currently not connected on the inside. At one point in their history, they would’ve had families living in them and Alexis Lodge continues that authentic family feeling today. One house accommodates ten residents and the other houses eleven residents.

Each house is similar to a typical family home in that the residents have their own private bedrooms, then there are communal spaces for everyone to enjoy together: one bathroom per one or two residents, a shared kitchen, multiple sitting rooms, and a central dining room. The bedrooms are various sizes, shapes, and styles, and the residents are always welcome and encouraged to decorate them to make them feel like their own. There is also a spacious backyard which I could imagine being a very popular spot in the warmer months for gardening or fresh air, despite it being covered in a thick layer of snow when I visited. Most of the bedrooms are located upstairs; however, there are a limited number of bedrooms on the main floor which would be suitable for residents with mobility restrictions as there is currently no elevator at Alexis Lodge.

Dignity Without Deadlines: A Radical Approach to Care

Alexis Lodge provides specialized Memory Care to all of its residents and the approach to care is truly person-centered. There is no “one size fits all” method of caring for the residents and there are no strict or rigid schedules that must be followed. The pricing structure is such that it is total care for everyone and the care price is completely all-inclusive from day one. The total cost is much less expensive than Memory Care found elsewhere, and once a resident moves in, their monthly fees will never increase for the duration of their stay. This is just one example demonstrating Christiana’s deep passion for meeting the needs of the residents and treating them like family.

There is a dedicated doctor who comes to the home once per month and is also available on call 24 hours per day. For those residents who are accessing care from Ontario Health at Home, Alexis Lodge has a cluster care model whereby there is one PSW from OHH assisting the staff with providing care to the residents. There is a consistent staff presence at all times, including the head cook who has been with Alexis Lodge for almost 20 years! She is responsible for making all the food for the residents with the help of other staff and even some residents, ensuring it is safe and dignified for them to do so. This is a prime example of making sure the residents are stimulated and participating in daily activities that interest them. The staff members speak a wide variety of languages, which makes Alexis Lodge uniquely welcoming for residents of various cultural backgrounds. Of course, the spoken language isn’t the only way they communicate. They also communicate love through everything they do: dance, sharing food, activities, smiles, and physical hugs.

In terms of the activities for the residents, I was very impressed with the flexibility offered. The residents congregate in the shared spaces as they please and are free to come and go into their bedrooms at any time. This approach really caters to the individual needs and whims of the residents. For example, there are set meal times; however, there is flexibility in terms of when people actually eat. If someone wants to sleep in and not come to breakfast right away, then that is completely acceptable and they can have their food whenever they are ready. Christiana and the rest of the staff set the tone in the home with plenty of dancing, games, and laughter, but they never force anyone to participate. It is guided by what the residents want to do – I saw two women sitting at the dining room table together looking at photos, while others were watching TV in the living room and others were simply up and about.

Most of my time at Alexis Lodge was on one side of the house, but when I visited the second side, it also felt like a true home. One resident was napping peacefully on the couch while others were watching television. I had a lovely chat with another who told me about his time as a teacher many years ago, and another resident had written several books. It was a reminder that these are people with interesting and full lives and that we must not let the dementia diagnoses define who they are. 

As care needs increase, Alexis Lodge is able to provide palliative and comfort care, including IV care with support. They have one Hoyer lift for residents with mobility challenges, though they cannot support G-tube feeding. If a resident has to go to the hospital for more acute care, Alexis Lodge is still there for them. Christiana makes daily visits to see the residents in hospital and is always a fierce advocate for them to return home to Alexis Lodge as soon as appropriate. Respite care is also provided at Alexis Lodge when they have a room available, for a minimum of one month.

Overall Impressions of Alexis Lodge: Final Thoughts on a Special Community

I was very fortunate to spend plenty of time with Christiana which allowed me to learn about her background and the long history of Alexis Lodge. Her commitment and passion for caring for people with dementia is truly admirable and rare. She lit up when telling me about past residents and their personal stories, just like she was talking about her own family members. And some of the families have become like family to her now, even long after the resident has passed away. Christiana writes books and speaks at events of her dreams for the future in which this home-like care can be brought to more people. I learned on my visit that Alexis Lodge is also a training ground for new PSWs—this is a testament to the amazing, outside-the-box care that they provide and it’s important for people learning about dementia care to keep an open mind in terms of the approach to care. While Alexis Lodge is very small compared to other retirement homes, the care provided is like none other. As they say on their website, “Small Home. Big Care.” and this is exactly my feeling after visiting Alexis Lodge.