We are proud to share and celebrate the recent professional achievements of Traci Skaalrud, Site Leader and Director of Care at Cascade Gardens.

Traci has been selected for two significant national and international nursing initiatives that recognize her expertise, leadership, and ongoing contributions to the nursing profession, particularly in the area of gerontological care.

Representing Canada at the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)

At the end of April, Traci will travel to Chicago to participate as an Exam Item Reviewer for the PNRex, the licensure examination for Practical Nurses. This opportunity comes through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and reflects a high level of trust in Traci’s clinical knowledge and professional judgment.

As an Exam Item Reviewer, Traci will help ensure that exam questions accurately reflect current practice standards and competencies required for safe, effective nursing care.

Contributing to the National Gerontological Nursing Exam

In addition, Traci has once again been selected by the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) to contribute to the development of exam questions for the Certified Registered/Licensed Practical

Gerontological Nurses Exam

This work will take place over three remote sessions and brings together Certified Gerontological Nurses from across Canada. Traci’s involvement supports the ongoing advancement of excellence in gerontological nursing and helps shape the standards for future practitioners across the country.

A Commitment to Quality Care and Professional Leadership

Traci’s selections for these roles are a reflection not only of her professional credibility, but also of her continued commitment to quality care, education, and leadership in long‑term care. Her contributions extend beyond Cascade Gardens, supporting the nursing profession at both national and international levels.

On behalf of everyone at Park Place Seniors Living, we extend our sincere congratulations to Traci. We are grateful for her leadership and proud to see her expertise recognized on such important platforms.

The post Celebrating Leadership and Excellence in Nursing: Congratulations Traci Skaalrud appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

On February 26, 2026, Park Place Seniors Living founders Al and Jenny Jina were formally recognized in the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, marking a meaningful moment of public acknowledgment for their long standing contributions to seniors living.

During the morning sitting of the 2nd Session, 43rd Parliament, Sunita Dhir, MLA for Vancouver Langara, addressed the House to recognize Al and Jenny following their recent receipt of the Ed Helfrich Long Service Award from the B.C. Care Providers Association.

In her remarks, MLA Dhir reflected on the values that have guided Park Place Seniors Living from its earliest days.

“More than three decades ago, Al and Jenny co founded Park Place Seniors Living with a simple but powerful mission, to create homes where seniors feel valued, respected and truly at home. Together, Al and Jenny have built more than seniors’ residences. They have built communities.”

A Mission Recognized at the Provincial Level

For more than 30 years, Al and Jenny Jina have helped shape Park Place with a consistent focus on dignity, respect, and creating places that genuinely feel like home. The recognition in the B.C. Legislature reflects how this mission has resonated well beyond our organization, contributing to the broader conversation about quality, leadership, and community in seniors living across the province.

While the Ed Helfrich Long Service Award acknowledges decades of sustained leadership in the sector, the Legislative recognition offers a distinct and public affirmation of the impact that values driven leadership can have on residents, families, care teams, and communities.

A Shared Moment of Pride

MLA Dhir concluded by inviting the House to join her in congratulating Al and Jenny Jina and welcoming Al Jina to the Legislature. It was a moment that recognized not only personal achievement, but also the collective efforts of the many people who have contributed to Park Place Seniors Living over the years.

We are proud to see this work acknowledged in the B.C. Legislature and grateful for the trust and support of the residents, families, and teams who continue to bring our shared mission to life every day.

The post Recognized in the B.C. Legislature: Al and Jenny Jina appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Park Place Seniors Living is pleased to welcome Mill Lake Seniors Community as the newest addition to its growing network of seniors residences across Western Canada. The residence was recently acquired by Park Place and was previously known as Bevan Village.

Located in the heart of Abbotsford, Mill Lake Seniors Community offers assisted living, long-term care, and respite care in a comfortable, community-focused environment designed to support seniors with a range of needs. The residence sits just steps from Mill Lake Park, providing residents and visiting families with easy access to walking paths, gardens, and scenic lake views.

With the addition of Mill Lake Seniors Community, Park Place continues its mission of providing compassionate, resident-centred care across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.

A Supportive Environment for Seniors

Mill Lake Seniors Community offers assisted living and long-term care, along with short-term respite stays for families who need temporary support. This range of care services allows residents and families to access the level of care that best suits their needs.

Residents benefit from:

• 24-hour professional nursing support
• Personalized assistance with daily living
• Secure, landscaped grounds and outdoor spaces
• Comfortable studio and one-bedroom suites
• Engaging recreation and social programming
• Chef-prepared meals served in accessible dining rooms

Additional services such as dementia care and respite stays are also available, helping families access flexible care options when needs change.

A Welcoming Community in a Familiar Neighbourhood

Situated on Bevan Avenue in an established Abbotsford neighbourhood, the residence is close to everyday amenities, including shopping, pharmacies, and local services at nearby Bevan Village. Its proximity to Mill Lake Park also offers residents and visitors a peaceful place to spend time outdoors.

Inside the community, residents can enjoy shared spaces such as lounges, activity rooms, a library, and an on-site hair salon, all designed to encourage connection and comfort.

Continuing Park Place’s Commitment to Quality Care

As part of the Park Place Seniors Living family, Mill Lake Seniors Community operates under established standards of safety, quality, and compassionate care upheld across all Park Place residences. Park Place has been serving seniors and their families for more than 30 years, with a focus on creating supportive communities where residents feel respected, safe, and at home.

The addition of Mill Lake Seniors Community strengthens Park Place’s presence in the Fraser Valley and expands care options for families exploring assisted living and long-term care in Abbotsford.

If you are interested in learning more about Mill Lake Seniors Community, we invite you to book a tour to see the residence firsthand.

The post Introducing Mill Lake Seniors Community: Park Place’s Newest Residence in Abbotsford, BC appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

We are proud to share that Clayton Heights Care Community has once again been recognized by Healthcare Excellence Canada, receiving the $1,000 Evaluation Survey Award (Impact Award) as part of the Sparking Change in the Appropriate Use of Antipsychotics (AUA) Awards Program.

This recognition, awarded on March 11, 2026, highlights Clayton Heights’ continued commitment to quality improvement and meaningful resident‑centered care.

The Evaluation Survey Award acknowledges teams that actively engage in evaluating and strengthening care practices that support the appropriate use of antipsychotic medications. Receiving this award again is a testament to the consistency, dedication, and professionalism demonstrated by the Clayton Heights team in their day‑to‑day work.

This achievement comes during an especially demanding period for the community, with the team navigating increased clinical pressures while maintaining a strong focus on care quality and resident well‑being. Their ability to stay engaged, responsive, and committed during challenging times speaks volumes about the culture of care at Clayton Heights.

We extend our sincere congratulations and appreciation to the entire Clayton Heights Care Community team for this well‑deserved recognition. Your ongoing efforts continue to make a positive impact on the lives of residents and families you serve.

The post Clayton Heights Care Community Recognized by Healthcare Excellence Canada appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

At a Glance

Who it’s for: Seniors and families exploring seniors living options and wanting to understand what daily life can look like in a Park Place community.

What it covers: How recreation programs, shared activities, and community initiatives help residents stay active, connected, and involved in everyday life.

Why it matters: Opportunities to participate, connect with others, and enjoy familiar activities can make a meaningful difference in how residents experience community living.

Everyday Life in a Park Place Community

Many seniors and families want to understand what everyday life in a seniors community actually feels like. Beyond the practical details, people are often curious about the opportunities residents have to stay active, connect with others, and spend their time in ways that feel enjoyable and familiar.

At Park Place Seniors Living communities, daily life includes many opportunities for residents to take part in activities, connect with neighbours, and enjoy time together. Whether it’s joining a favourite group activity, attending live entertainment, or simply spending time with friends, these moments help create a welcoming and lively environment.

Across Park Place communities, recreation programs and shared initiatives are an important part of that experience. Many of these ideas are highlighted in STRIVE stories, which share examples of how different residences bring Park Place’s core values to life in everyday ways.

Recreation Programs That Bring Residents Together

At Shaughnessy Seniors Community, the recreation department introduced a refreshed approach to activities, expanding the number and variety of programs available to residents.

The community now offers a wide range of activities throughout the week, including baking programs, pet therapy visits, church services, Bingo, breakfast and lunch clubs, happy hours, ice cream socials, high tea gatherings, live entertainment, garden walks, and bus outings around the local area.

As the STRIVE story explains:

“The recreation department underwent a major transformation, introducing a vibrant calendar of activities such as baking, pet therapy, church services, Bingo, breakfast and lunch clubs, happy hours, ice cream socials, high tea, live entertainment, garden walks, bus outings, and specialized dementia programming.”

Community connections were also expanded by welcoming local students to visit the residence for performances and sing-along events. These visits create enjoyable experiences for residents while strengthening relationships between the residence and the surrounding community.

Programs like these help residents stay active, maintain social connections, and enjoy time together with neighbours who share similar interests.

Creative Projects That Encourage Connection

At Piccadilly Seniors Community, a creative project known as the Ladybug Connection Garden brought residents, families, and team members together around a shared activity.

Participants worked together to paint small ladybug rocks by hand. Once completed, the colourful rocks were placed around a tree in the courtyard, gradually creating a bright and cheerful garden space that everyone in the community can visit and enjoy.

The STRIVE story describes the project this way:

“The Ladybug Connection Garden is a heartwarming initiative designed to foster meaningful connections and a vibrant community among residents, families, and staff.”

Projects like this offer a simple way for people to spend time together while expressing creativity. They also give families an opportunity to take part in activities with their loved ones when visiting the community.

As more ladybugs were added to the garden, the courtyard became a small but meaningful gathering place. Now residents and families can pause, share stories, and enjoy time outdoors together.

Why Activities Matter in Seniors Living

Opportunities to participate in activities can make a meaningful difference in how residents experience life in a seniors community.

Across Park Place communities, residents at a variety of care levels, including independent living, assisted living, and long-term care in BC and Ontario, and Type A and Type B supportive living in Alberta, have opportunities to take part in programs and events designed to help them stay connected and involved.

Group activities help residents meet neighbours and form friendships. Familiar pastimes such as music, games, social gatherings, or creative projects often provide a comfortable way for residents to spend time together.

Activities can also create opportunities for families to participate during visits, whether that means attending an event, joining a celebration, or simply enjoying a shared moment together.

Meaningful activities help turn a residence into a community.

A Shared Approach Across Park Place Communities

Each Park Place community develops activities and programs that reflect the interests and preferences of its residents. While every residence is unique, the goal remains the same: creating an environment where residents have opportunities to stay involved, connect with others, and enjoy their day.

Stories like those from Shaughnessy and Piccadilly are just two examples of how Park Place communities encourage creativity, participation, and connection.

Across the Park Place family, these initiatives help create welcoming environments where residents can continue enjoying the things that make life meaningful.

Life at Park Place

At Park Place Seniors Living communities, everyday life includes opportunities for residents to stay active, share experiences with neighbours, and enjoy the comfort of being part of a welcoming community.

If you are exploring seniors living options for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to get in touch with us to learn more about the experiences residents enjoy across our communities.

The post The Seniors Living Experience: How Park Place Residents Thrive Across Our Communities appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

When a loved one moves into seniors living or long-term care, families often find themselves learning new terminology, new routines, and new processes all at once.

Even when care feels steady and supportive, questions naturally arise. What does this medical term mean? How are safety measures handled? Where can I read more about my loved one’s rights? What should I expect during certain stages of care?

At Park Place Seniors Living, we believe that clear information helps families feel more confident and involved. That’s why we developed our Keeping You Informed brochure series – a resource library created specifically for residents and their families.

These materials are practical, accessible, and easy to revisit whenever questions come up.

Why We Created the Keeping You Informed Series

Care environments are dynamic and families deserve clarity along the way. The Keeping You Informed brochures were developed to provide straightforward explanations of common topics families ask about. They are reviewed by the Park Place Family Focus Group to ensure they reflect real questions and are written in language that feels clear and approachable.

The purpose is simple: make important information easier to understand and easier to access.

Physical copies are available in the lobby of all Park Place Assisted Living/Type B and Long Term Care/Type A residences. Families can also explore the full collection online through our website. Whether you prefer to read one during a visit or review it at home, the information is there when you need it.

What Topics Do the Brochures Cover?

The Keeping You Informed series addresses a wide range of subjects, organized around the areas families most frequently want clarity on.

Everyday Health and Safety

Some brochures focus on day-to-day wellbeing and safety, with topics such as infection prevention, fall management, medication safety, hydration, and general health practices. These resources explain how safety measures work and why they matter.

Understanding Clinical Care

Other materials help families better understand aspects of clinical care and care planning. They clarify commonly used healthcare terminology, outline how assessments are conducted, and explain how teams coordinate around changing needs.

Resident Rights and Advocacy

Transparency also includes making sure residents and families understand their rights. The resource library includes information about the Resident Bill of Rights, resident and family councils, disclosure practices, and policies designed to support dignity and inclusion.

Emotional and End-of-Life Support

Some brochures address sensitive and important moments in care. These resources provide guidance around grief, changes in appetite, pain management, and preparing for the end of life. They offer thoughtful explanations that families can return to during difficult times.

Together, these themes reflect the full experience of seniors living. Practical, clinical, emotional, and relational.

If you would like to explore specific topics in more detail, the complete series is available through the Keeping You Informed section of the Park Place Seniors Living website.

How Families Use These Resources

Families use these brochures in different ways.

Some read them before a scheduled care conference to better understand terminology. Others review them after a health update to clarify what was discussed. Some access them during seasonal illness periods for reassurance about prevention measures.

Because the materials are always available in residence lobbies and online, families can return to them at their own pace. Information does not need to be absorbed all at once, and can be revisited when it feels relevant.

That accessibility helps reduce uncertainty and supports more confident conversations between families and care teams.

Education Strengthens Partnership

Care is strongest when families and staff feel aligned.

The Keeping You Informed series supports that alignment by creating shared understanding. When families know what to expect and understand the reasoning behind policies and practices, communication becomes smoother and more collaborative.

These brochures reflect Park Place’s broader commitment to transparency and open dialogue. They are one way we ensure that important information is not hidden in policy manuals or limited to formal meetings.

Instead, it is shared openly and designed to be understood.

Explore the Resource Library

Whether you are preparing for a care conference, looking for clarity after a recent update, or simply wanting to better understand how care is delivered, these materials are there to support you. 

If you have questions about a specific topic or would like to discuss something further, we encourage you to get in touch with us directly. We are always available to talk through questions, provide context, and ensure you feel supported.

The post Keeping You Informed: Resources Designed for Families appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Trust is built through consistency. In seniors living and long-term care, families are placing something deeply important in the hands of others: the well-being of someone they love. Clear, steady communication helps create confidence in that decision. At Park Place Seniors Living, structured touchpoints between staff, leadership, and families are a core part of delivering quality care.

Regular communication supports accountability, alignment, and collaboration. When teams are coordinated and families are informed, care becomes more consistent and responsive.

At a Glance

• Who this is for: Families with loved ones in seniors living or long-term care
• What this article covers: How structured communication strengthens care and builds trust
• Why it matters: Clear, ongoing touchpoints improve coordination, transparency, and confidence

Why Communication Matters in Senior Care

Care environments are dynamic, with resident needs evolving on a regular basis and staff teams rotating across shifts.

Without strong communication systems, information can become fragmented, but when communication is consistent and documented, teams remain aligned, and families feel informed.

At Park Place residences, communication is integrated into daily operations. Documentation processes, leadership oversight, and proactive outreach ensure that updates are shared and questions are addressed. This approach supports both clinical excellence and family confidence.

Two of our STRIVE stories highlight how structured communication strengthens trust across our communities.

STRIVE Story: Northcrest

At Northcrest Seniors Community, leadership responded to concerns by implementing a structured communication model:

Building Trust Through Family Comfort Rounds
Enhancing Communication and Accountability in Resident Care
Family Comfort Rounds were developed to address repeated concerns and complaints from families about resident care. By adapting the existing Comfort Rounds model, which assesses pain, positioning, personal needs, and placement of belongings, the initiative aims to improve communication and transparency between staff, management, and families. The process involves regular, team-shared documentation and proactive discussions with families about their preferred communication methods and frequency. This approach has helped rebuild trust, reduce conflict, and foster collaboration, resulting in positive feedback from families and staff, greater accountability, and a more supportive care environment.
NORTHCREST

This initiative demonstrates how structured, proactive communication can strengthen relationships. By clearly documenting care discussions and inviting families to share their communication preferences, Northcrest facilitated greater transparency and fewer misunderstandings.

The result was improved satisfaction and a more collaborative environment for residents, families, and staff.

STRIVE Story: Silverado Creek

At Silverado Creek Seniors Community, the focus centred on strengthening internal coordination among frontline staff:

Improving Care With Communication
Enhancing Care Quality Through Rotating Weekly Clinical Rounds
Weekly clinical rounds have been implemented on a rotating schedule between day and evening shifts to keep frontline staff (HCAs and nurses) updated on resident status, care plan changes, and relevant clinical updates. This approach increases staff awareness, improves care planning, and promotes shared decision-making. For residents, it ensures care is consistently aligned with their current needs, enhancing safety and quality. Families benefit from greater confidence in care delivery through consistent and informed communication.
SILVERADO CREEK

Rotating clinical rounds ensures that information flows across shifts and disciplines. Frontline staff remain aligned on evolving care needs, and documentation reflects current realities.

For families, this internal alignment translates into confidence. When care teams are informed and coordinated, outward communication becomes clearer and more consistent.

A System-Wide Commitment to Family Touchpoints

Across Park Place Seniors Living’s residences, structured communication is not limited to one initiative or one site. It is part of a broader organizational commitment.

Key elements include:

• Documented care planning processes
• Regular interdisciplinary discussions
• Leadership visibility and oversight
• Proactive outreach to families
• Clear points of contact within each community

These touchpoints support transparency and accountability. They also reinforce a culture where questions are welcomed and dialogue is ongoing.

With over 40 residences across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, consistency in communication practices is essential. Families deserve clarity regardless of location.

What This Means for Families

Families can expect regular updates, open channels for questions, and documented care planning that reflects current needs.

We also accommodate different communication preferences. Some families prefer scheduled check-ins, while others appreciate updates when there are changes to care plans. By discussing these preferences early and revisiting them over time, teams can align communication with family expectations.

Trust grows when information is shared clearly and consistently, when families feel heard, and when accountability is visible.

Continuing the Conversation

Quality care depends on collaboration, and collaboration depends on communication.

At Park Place Seniors Living, structured family touchpoints are part of daily practice across our communities. From Family Comfort Rounds to rotating clinical updates, these systems support transparency, coordination, and confidence.

If you are exploring seniors living or long-term care options with Park Place Seniors Living, we welcome you to connect with our team and learn more about how our proactive approach to communication supports the care our residents deserve in all of our residences.

The post Building Trust Through Family Touchpoints: How Ongoing Communication Strengthens Resident Care at Park Place Communities appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

This February, we’re proud to share an exciting milestone: Al and Jenny Jina, owners and operators of Park Place Seniors Living, have been named recipients of the Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award, presented by the BC Care Providers Association.

It’s a meaningful recognition that reflects decades of steady commitment to senior care, and a thoughtful approach to leadership that has helped shape care communities across British Columbia.

What the Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award Recognizes

The Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award is a category of the BC Care Awards that recognizes longstanding leadership in the seniors’ care sector. It honours individuals in our community who have made significant contributions, showing up and doing the work diligently for 15 years or more.

This is a province-wide recognition that reflects a type of leadership built through intention, experience, and a deep respect for seniors and the teams who care for them. 

Honouring Al and Jenny’s Leadership and Impact

Those who have worked with Al and Jenny know their leadership is grounded and practical. They unwaveringly focus on doing what is best for residents, families, and care teams, guided by purpose rather than praise or self-recognition.

With a background in nursing, a master’s degree in Adult Education, and a Fellowship in Gerontology, Jenny has spent her entire career caring for seniors. Her early experience instilled the importance of giving seniors dignity and preventing institutionalization of care. This led her to work tirelessly to make Park Place feel like home for all residents. Because of her leadership, Park Place communities are known as warm, person-centred environments that help everyone feel welcome and comfortable to be themselves.

With commerce and law degrees from the University of Alberta, Al has created deep systemic change in seniors’ care. From serving on provincial committees to advising on legislation, his influence has strengthened the foundations of seniors’ care across Canada. Serving on multiple committees over his career, and his contributions have brought important insight to Park Place’s residences.

Over the years, sound decision-making and a clear understanding of what quality care looks like in the real world have shaped both Al and Jenny’s work. Their leadership provides a strong foundation for the entire organization to rely on, enabling us to move forward from a position of strength.

How Their Work Impacts Our Communities

Leadership matters most in the everyday details of care. It influences how communities operate over time, from care standards and staffing approaches to how decisions are made when it matters most.

Al and Jenny’s contributions have helped guide Park Place communities with a steady hand, reinforcing an approach to care that values attention, continuity, and respect. These principles determine how teams work together and provide care for residents.

For families with loved ones living in a retirement community, this kind of consistency helps create a deep sense of confidence and trust.

A Moment of Recognition

The award will be presented at the 12th annual BC Care Awards ceremony, held on February 25th, 2026 at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, BC. Elected officials, as well as BCCPA member organizations and stakeholders will be in attendance, and the Minister of Health will present the awards.

While the evening itself is a celebration, the significance of the award extends well beyond a single event. It reflects the collective respect of peers across the sector, and the value placed on long-standing commitment to quality care.

Looking Ahead With Pride

We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with Al and Jenny, and we’re grateful for the years of care, leadership, and responsibility they’ve brought to senior living in British Columbia. Their recognition reminds us that the most meaningful contributions are often made quietly, through dedication and care.

The post Honouring a Lifetime of Care: Al and Jenny Jina Receive the Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award from BC Care Providers appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Across our Park Place communities, celebrations often include special meals, decorations, and festivities. But we also take the time to celebrate in smaller ways. Sometimes that’s a weekly ice cream social or a tray of fresh baking shared in the afternoon. It’s getting our hands dirty tending to the patio garden, or a staff member greeting a resident by name and pausing to chat.

These shared moments may seem simple, but they play an important role in supporting connection, dignity, and wellbeing at every stage of care.

At a Glance

Who it’s for: Seniors and families connected to or considering life at a Park Place residence
In this article: How shared traditions support wellbeing across Park Place communities
Why it matters: Small, consistent experiences help residents feel recognized, included, and part of a caring community

This Month’s STRIVE Stories: Celebrating Together

Each month, Park Place shares STRIVE stories, which are examples from our communities of how we put our values and commitments into practice.

This month’s STRIVE stories focus on celebrating together, highlighting how consistent, shared experiences strengthen connection.

Independent Living: Building Community at The Residence at Orchards Walk

At The Residence at Orchards Walk in Kamloops, celebration often takes the form of shared activities and events:

Celebrating Together
Building Community Through Intergenerational Activities and Social Traditions

This vibrant community fosters connection and joy through a variety of engaging activities. Residents delight in visits from local daycare children, especially during special occasions like Easter and Halloween, which bring excitement and happiness to all. Gardening is a shared effort, with staff and residents working together to maintain beautiful flower boxes on the patio, instilling pride and a sense of accomplishment. New residents are welcomed each summer with monthly Meet & Mingle events, featuring coffee and homemade cookies, helping everyone feel included and part of the community. Additionally, the weekly Ice Cream Socials offer a simple yet joyful way for residents and staff to bond and enjoy warm afternoons together. These traditions strengthen relationships, encourage teamwork, and create a welcoming, supportive environment for all.

These activities may seem simple at first glance, but in an independent living setting, they support autonomy. Residents choose how and when they participate. Some take an active role in planning or gardening, and others join for conversation or simply to enjoy the atmosphere. This flexibility lets residents decide how they want to spend their days.

Long-Term Care: Revitalizing Resident Life at Shaughnessy Seniors Community

At Shaughnessy Seniors Community, celebration is expressed through a revitalized recreation program, designed to improve engagement and quality of life:

Revitalizing Resident Life
Recreation Program Transformation and Community Engagement 

The recreation department underwent a major transformation, introducing a vibrant calendar of activities such as baking, pet therapy, church services, Bingo, breakfast and lunch clubs, happy hours, ice cream socials, high tea, live entertainment, garden walks, bus outings, and specialized dementia programming. Community connections were expanded by welcoming local students for performances and sing-alongs. Sonia’s creative leadership was instrumental in driving these enhancements, which have significantly improved residents’ quality of life, increased family satisfaction, and fostered greater pride and collaboration within the team.

In long-term care, consistent and well-designed recreation supports dignity and wellbeing. Familiar routines, sensory experiences, and opportunities for connection help residents feel secure and engaged.

What These Stories Represent

The stories from Orchards Walk and Shaughnessy both reflect the same commitment to intentional community building.

In independent living, shared activities enhance choice, encourage social connection, and support active lifestyles. Residents can engage in ways that align with their interests, creating routines that feel both personally meaningful and fun.

In long-term care, programming promotes comfort and meaningful engagement, and consistency becomes especially valuable. Familiar faces, predictable activities, and thoughtfully-designed recreation help residents feel secure while supporting their wellbeing.

Across every Park Place setting, celebration strengthens relationships and reinforces dignity. It creates opportunities for residents to participate and feel recognized as individuals. These shared experiences build trust between residents, families, and team members, helping everyone feel more connected and supported.

A Reflection of How We Care

Across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, Park Place Seniors Homes and Communities continue to create environments where residents can experience both connection and comfort. Whether through a weekly tradition or a simple greeting in the hallway, these shared experiences strengthen the sense of belonging that defines our community.

If you’d like to learn more about Park Place, we invite you to explore our locations and connect with a team in your area.

The post Celebrating Together: Why Small Moments Matter at Park Place Communities appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

As another year comes to a close, it’s natural to pause and reflect on the moments that shaped us. At Park Place Seniors Living, these are shared memories, connections, and experiences that bring our communities to life. This year, residents, families, and team members across our locations came together to celebrate achievements, embrace creativity, and continue building a sense of belonging that defines who we are. Looking back helps us appreciate how far we’ve come, and it inspires us as we look ahead with gratitude and optimism.

Looking Back: Highlights and Moments That Defined Us

Every year brings a collection of stories that remind us of the strength and joy of community living, and this year was no exception. Across our Park Place communities, residents showed their talents, creativity, and enthusiasm through a number of memorable events.

Celebrating Connection Through Community Events

One of the most exciting highlights of the year was the first-ever Generations Championship, where residents showcased their spirit through a series of friendly, accessible athletic games. Cheered on by staff, families, and one another, participants demonstrated not just physical ability, but camaraderie, resilience, and joy. It was a celebration of wellness and connection that brought our communities together in a meaningful way.

At Newport Harbour, residents once again had the chance to experience a touch of movie magic. The community, which was previously featured in the romantic drama Hello, Love, Again, welcomed a film crew that transformed the halls into a hospital set for their latest short film. Residents and staff enjoyed watching the action unfold, sharing in the excitement, and even taking part as extras. It was a memorable day that brought creativity, energy, and plenty of smiles to the community.

At River Ridge Seniors Village, residents participated in Imagination Alive, a creative collaboration that encouraged new forms of artistic expression and connection through shared creative moments.

Across all Park Place communities, we were also excited to see the return of the Sunflower Showdown. Each home received a sunflower starter kit in the spring, and by the end of summer, communities competed for the tallest sunflower, most vibrant bloom, best resident engagement, and the grand prize. It was a cheerful, exciting event that brought gardeners and non-gardeners alike together in a burst of colour and community spirit.

Innovation and Recognition in Care

We were proud to celebrate Clayton Heights Care Community, which received the Kickstarter Award for its person-centred approach to care. This recognition reflects a commitment shared across Park Place: to honour each resident’s individuality, preferences, and experiences while providing exceptional support. It’s one more example of how our teams continue to evolve, learn, and put residents at the heart of everything they do.

Welcoming New Communities Into the Park Place Family

Another important milestone this year was expanding our Park Place family with the opening of Bolivar Creek Retirement Residence and Morgan Creek Seniors Community in Surrey. We also made continued progress on Beverly Heights Seniors Community in northeast Edmonton, where construction began in July 2025. These developments bring new opportunities for care, connection, and community, and we look forward to watching them grow in the years ahead. 

Themes That Emerged: What This Year Taught Us

As we reflect on the stories and achievements that shaped this year, a few meaningful themes stand out:

The power of community and engagement
When people come together, whether through sport, creativity, or shared celebration, something special happens. These moments strengthen friendships, encourage participation, and bring joy to everyday life.

Innovation and growth
Through new communities, celebrated programs, and award-winning care, this year reminded us of the importance of evolving while staying grounded in compassion and respect.

Joy, adaptability, and resilience
Across Park Place, residents and staff alike embraced new experiences, found fun in unexpected places, and supported one another with warmth and humour.

Person-centred care at the heart of everything
Every achievement and every event this year ties back to our commitment to honouring the unique needs, stories, and preferences of each resident.

These themes highlight what we’ve accomplished together and continue to guide how we show up for one another day after day.

Looking Ahead With Gratitude

As we move into 2026, one thing is clear: our community is strong, caring, and always growing. The experiences we’ve shared remind us of what’s possible when residents, families, and team members come together with openness and heart.

As we step into a new year, we do so with deep appreciation for the trust families place in us, the dedication of our team members, and the joy, humour, and generosity our residents bring into every space. Together, we look ahead with excitement for the stories yet to be written and the memories still to come.

If you’re exploring senior living options for yourself or a loved one, we would be honoured to welcome you into our Park Place family. Book a tour to see firsthand how we create warm, engaging, and supportive communities where every day is an opportunity to connect, grow, and thrive.

The post Looking Back, Looking Ahead: Reflecting on the Year as a Community appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.