One thing we can depend on in our lives is change. As the years slip by, we have learned that we can never be complacent as unexpected issues happen.
Thus, we find ourselves living in a lovely retirement home located not far from Rockview Towers apartment building where we lived for eight happy years. We had not planned this move presently.
The first encouraging statement when we moved here was, “This is your home! You come and go as you please as you might living elsewhere.”
Residing here at Amberwood Suites has many unexpected bonuses. Residents are well-cared for by management and the ever-supportive staff. If we need help in any way, 24/7, staff is available and pleasantly so. The caring attitude is much appreciated by us as we have already experienced some problems. They are available to assist in any way possible.
As you enter the building you are met by an attractive, capable receptionist to direct you to the required location. I must mention the friendliness of both staff and other residents. The administrator is always approachable to chat. All of the staff members without exception are most available and prepared to help us solve whatever problems may arise.
We have lived here for eight months now and I already know nearly all of the people by name.
We quickly learn some small details of their lives. This gives us many interesting topics of conversation. At times, I am spellbound by the spontaneous stories of the elder ones as they relate happenings in their young lives, as children even.
It is surprising as time goes on to discover the connections that exist with our own lives. That’s wonderful for Alex and me, and has made us feel at home here very quickly.
We are surrounded by 90-year-olds and even, yes, two active and busy centenarians. These ladies participate readily in many activities and outings. They set examples for the rest of us! Don’t let age dictate what you are going to do.
Alex and I belong with the numerous 80-year-olds group. Some younger residents live here as well. The interesting fact is we all feel equal to each other just by virtue of living here together. Residents help each other if necessary.
My husband feels restless at times and so we go for walks, sometimes to Tim Hortons just down the street or around the corner on Bouchard Street. There is also a shorter walk, a sidewalk all around this facility. This gives us the convenient opportunity to enjoy the lovely flowers and bushes. I can identify them for Alex every day. He is forgetful so the names are all new to him every time. No problem!
We really enjoy the weekly live entertainment. Dancing to the music is encouraged and we do! Residents with mobility issues watch, sing along and are happy to be listening.
Other activities are also presented by the ever-active activity director. Talk about creativity! Since we have been here, there has been a fashion show, a relaxing cruise on Lake Ramsey and even a bus trip to the French River Trading Post, to name just a few.
Educational sessions have been presented, for example by the police teaching us to recognize and avoid scams and by a pharmacist to help us with our medications and help us understand our various health problems.
Our spiritual side is nurtured by a Catholic mass every two weeks celebrated by Father Pat Woods and praying the rosary every Saturday. For Amberwood residents of other faiths, gospel reading and prayers are offered.
A registered nurse works here full time to give us advice and assist with minor problems. She also directs the several PSWs in their work. Our blood pressure and weight are taken and recorded once a month. So, if we experience a health problem it is detected immediately.
I must admit that I moved here very reluctantly, but we have come to regard Amberwood Suites as our home.
Erna de Burger-Fex was a columnist for Northern Life, Sudbury.com’s predecessor print publication, for many years.