At Park Place Seniors Living, we believe that purpose, contribution, and community have no age limit. This spirit was celebrated at the 2026 Top 7 Over 70 Gala in Medicine Hat, recognizing seven remarkable older adults who continue to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

We are especially proud to celebrate David Carter, a resident of River Ridge Seniors Village, who was named one of Southeast Alberta’s 2026 Top 7 Over 70 recipients.

Presented by the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta, Top 7 Over 70 celebrates individuals over the age of 70 who continue to pursue new achievements and contribute their experience, talents, and leadership to their communities. Top 7 Over 70™ – Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta

David has a distinguished history of public service, writing, and community involvement. A former Member of the Legislative Assembly and Speaker of the Alberta Legislative Assembly, he has continued writing, mentoring, and sharing his knowledge well into his later years.

River Ridge Seniors Village was proud to support this year’s Top 7 Over 70 Gala as a sponsor, and even prouder to celebrate one of its own residents among the honorees.

David’s recognition is a wonderful reminder that experience, purpose, and the opportunity to make a difference continue throughout every stage of life.

Congratulations to David Carter on this well-deserved recognition, and to all of the 2026 Top 7 Over 70 recipients.

The post Celebrating a Life of Continued Impact: River Ridge Resident Honored Among Southeast Alberta’s Top 7 Over 70 appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Morgan Creek Seniors Community recently welcomed Megan Knight, Conservative Party of BC candidate for Surrey South, for a meet-and-greet with residents and team members.

The visit provided an opportunity for residents to meet Megan Knight, engage in conversation, and connect directly with a candidate seeking to represent the Surrey South community.

Megan Knight has been involved in the local community through several public service roles, including serving on White Rock City Council and as Mayor of White Rock.

At Park Place Seniors Living, we value opportunities that help residents remain connected and engaged with the communities around them. Visits from community representatives and candidates provide residents with opportunities to engage in conversation and learn more about the people seeking to represent their communities.

Thank you to Megan Knight for taking the time to visit Morgan Creek Seniors Community and connect with our residents and team members.

The post Megan Knight Visits Morgan Creek Seniors Community appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

On October 13, 2026, Pine Grove Seniors Community in Kamloops welcomed MLA Peter Milobar for a visit and meet-and-greet with residents.

The gathering provided residents with an opportunity to connect with a local elected representative, ask questions, share their perspectives, and participate in an open conversation about topics important to them.

During the visit, Mr. Milobar also spent time speaking with residents individually, creating an opportunity for further conversation and connection.

At Park Place Seniors Living, we value opportunities that help residents stay informed, engaged, and connected with the broader communities in which they live. We appreciate Mr. Milobar taking the time to visit Pine Grove Seniors Community and engage directly with our residents.

The post MLA Peter Milobar Visits Pine Grove Seniors Community appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Deciding that a parent may need more support is rarely easy. For many adult children, the possibility of moving a loved one into seniors living can bring guilt, worry, and a sense that they have somehow fallen short.

But needing help does not mean you have failed. In many cases, choosing senior care services is what allows a parent to receive consistent support while giving family members the chance to return to being a son, daughter, spouse, or loved one rather than a full-time caregiver.

Park Place Seniors Living is a Canadian-owned seniors living organization supporting Residents and families across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. For seniors and families exploring retirement living or care options, understanding when additional support may be needed can make the decision feel less overwhelming.

At a glance

• Who it is for: Adult children and families caring for an aging parent at home
• What it covers: Signs that more support may be needed, caregiver guilt, and the role of senior care services
• Why it matters: The right support can improve safety and well-being while helping families reconnect in a more personal way

How do you know when caregiving has become too much?

Caregiving may be becoming increasingly challenging when one person is responsible for needs that require ongoing medical, physical, or emotional support.

Many families gradually take on more over time. It may begin with grocery shopping, transportation, or help with appointments. Later, it can grow to include medication management, mobility assistance, personal care, overnight supervision, or responding to frequent health concerns.

Signs that more support may be needed can include:

• Your parent is falling or becoming less steady
• Medications are being missed or taken incorrectly
• Personal care or nutrition needs are becoming difficult to manage
• Your parent is becoming increasingly isolated
• You are regularly missing work, sleep, or personal commitments
• You feel anxious about leaving your parent alone
• Your own physical or emotional health is being affected

Experiencing these challenges does not mean you are not capable or committed. It may simply mean the level of care required has changed.

Curious about the different seniors living and care options available? Our Choosing Your Care page is a helpful place to start.

Why do adult children feel guilty about seeking care?

Adult children often feel guilty because they believe caring for a parent at home is a responsibility they should be able to manage alone.

That feeling may be connected to family promises, cultural expectations, or a belief that accepting help means giving up. Some people may also worry that their parent will feel abandoned or that others will judge the decision.

These emotions are understandable, but they do not always reflect the reality of the situation.

Providing love and providing full-time medical or personal care are not the same thing. A family member may be deeply devoted and still not have the training, equipment, time, or physical ability to safely manage every need.

Choosing senior care services can be an act of care rather than a withdrawal of it.

Does moving into seniors living mean giving up independence?

Moving into seniors living does not automatically mean giving up independence. It can provide support for the parts of daily life that have become difficult while allowing Residents to continue making choices about their routines, relationships, and activities.

The right environment can offer assistance with care needs while also creating opportunities for:

• Regular meals and daily routines
• Social connection and recreation
• Help with medications or personal care
• Safer mobility and accessible surroundings
• Support from trained team members
• Greater peace of mind for families

The goal is not to take over every aspect of a Resident’s life. It is to provide the appropriate level of support so they can continue participating in daily life with greater confidence.

Have questions about what everyday life can look like in a Park Place Seniors Living community? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.

How can senior care services change the family relationship?

Senior care services can reduce the pressure of caregiving so family members can spend more time connecting rather than managing care tasks.

When every visit is focused on medication schedules, bathing, meals, mobility, or health concerns, it can be difficult to simply enjoy one another’s company. Conversations may become centred on what needs to be done next.

With care support in place, adult children may be able to return to familiar and meaningful moments, such as:

• Sharing coffee or a meal
• Looking through family photographs
• Going for a walk
• Attending an activity together
• Talking about family news
• Simply sitting together without a list of tasks

The caregiving role may not disappear entirely, but it can become more manageable. Instead of carrying every responsibility alone, families become part of a broader support team.

What support can a seniors living community provide?

A seniors living community can provide consistent support based on a Resident’s individual needs and abilities.

Depending on the level of care, this may include help with personal routines, meals, mobility, medication, recreation, and health monitoring. It also provides an environment where staff are available and where changes in a Resident’s condition may be noticed more quickly.

Families considering a move can view Park Place communities close to home on our Find a Location page.

How can families make the transition feel more supportive?

Families can make the transition feel more supportive by involving their parent in conversations and decisions as early as possible.

When appropriate, ask what matters most to them. They may have preferences about location, meals, activities, privacy, or how they spend their day. Even when care needs are significant, continuing to offer choices can help protect a sense of dignity and control.

It can also help to:

• Visit potential communities together
• Bring familiar furniture, photographs, or keepsakes
• Share routines and personal preferences with staff
• Continue regular visits and family traditions
• Allow time for everyone to adjust
• Speak honestly about concerns without creating pressure

Moving into seniors living is a major life change. It is normal for both Residents and families to experience a mix of relief, sadness, uncertainty, and hope.

Read questions to ask when touring a seniors living community before your first visit.

What if you still feel like you are failing?

Feeling guilty does not mean the decision is wrong. It often means you care deeply about your parent and want to make the best possible choice.

Try to consider what your parent needs now, rather than what you once hoped you could manage indefinitely. If their needs have moved beyond what can safely or sustainably be provided at home, bringing in professional support may be the most responsible and loving step.

You are not handing your relationship over to someone else. You are allowing trained team members to assist with care so you can continue offering the support that only family can provide.

You can still advocate, visit, comfort, listen, and participate in decisions. The difference is that you no longer have to do everything alone.

Can asking for help bring families closer?

Asking for help can create more space for families to reconnect with less stress and greater presence.

A move into seniors living does not change the fact that you are a family. It can, however, change how you spend your time together. When daily care is shared with a capable team, visits can become less about completing tasks and more about enjoying the relationship.

Explore Park Place Seniors Living communities near you to find care that’s close to home. Booking a conversation or informal visit can be a gentle first step, even if your family is only beginning to consider what support may look like.

The post From Caregiver to Family Member Again: When Is It Time for Senior Care Services? appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

In seniors living, familiar faces can make a meaningful difference. When employees stay, develop their skills, and grow within an organization, Residents benefit from greater consistency, stronger relationships, and support from people who understand their routines and preferences.

For seniors and families exploring retirement living, staff continuity can also provide reassurance. It means seeing team members who know the community, communicate well with one another, and have built trusted relationships over time.

Park Place Seniors Living is a Canadian-owned seniors living organization with communities across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. Supporting employees is one of the ways Park Place works to create stability and connection for Residents and families while providing fulfilling careers in seniors’ care for team members.

At a glance

• Who it is for: Seniors, families exploring retirement living, and people considering a career in seniors living
• What it covers: Staff retention, career development, workplace culture, and team connection
• Why it matters: Consistent and engaged teams can create greater comfort, trust, and continuity for Residents

How does staff retention support Residents?

Staff retention supports Residents by creating more consistency in their everyday experiences.

When employees remain within a seniors living community, they gain a deeper understanding of the people who live there. They may learn how a Resident likes to begin the morning, which activities they enjoy, or when a change in mood or routine may require additional attention.

These details are often developed through time and regular interaction. Familiar team members can help Residents feel recognized rather than having to explain their preferences repeatedly.

Continuity can also be reassuring for families. Speaking with staff who know their loved one and understand the history behind their care or daily routines can make communication feel more personal and informed.

Families can learn more about the different care and seniors living options available at Park Place Seniors Living.

Why are career growth opportunities important?

Career growth opportunities help employees build confidence, strengthen their skills, and envision a longer-term future in seniors living.

At multiple Park Place Seniors Living locations, including Villa Marguerite in Edmonton, a focus on retention and professional growth has supported greater employee satisfaction and continuity.

When experienced team members can develop into new roles, valuable knowledge stays within the community. Employees already understand the Residents, their colleagues, and the rhythms of daily life. This can help make staffing and leadership transitions feel more stable.

Career growth may include:

• Developing new clinical or operational skills
• Taking on mentorship or leadership responsibilities
• Moving into a new role within the organization
• Building a long-term career while remaining connected to familiar Residents and colleagues

People interested in meaningful work can explore career opportunities with Park Place Seniors Living.

What helps employees feel valued at work?

Employees are more likely to feel valued when their comfort, well-being, and contributions are acknowledged in practical ways.

At Greystone Manor seniors living community in Maple Ridge, the staff room was renovated with comfortable furniture, artwork, and personalized details. The changes created a more welcoming space where employees could take a genuine break during the workday.

Although a refreshed staff room may seem like a small change, it can send a clear message: employees deserve a comfortable place to rest and recharge.

Greystone Manor has also encouraged Residents to participate in committees and community conversations. This gives Residents additional opportunities to share feedback and feel involved in decisions that affect everyday life.

Read more about Greystone Manor in Maple Ridge, British Columbia.

How does workplace culture affect Resident life?

A connected workplace culture can support smoother teamwork and more attentive experiences for Residents.

At River Ridge seniors living community in Medicine Hat, the Work/Life Committee organizes staff appreciation events, social gatherings, wellness activities, and holiday celebrations. These occasions give employees a chance to connect outside of their usual responsibilities.

When colleagues know one another well, communication can become easier. Employees may feel more comfortable sharing observations, asking for assistance, or coordinating support across departments.

That collaboration matters in seniors living because the Resident experience is shaped by many people, including:

• Nursing and care employees
• Dining teams
• Recreation employees
• Housekeeping and maintenance teams
• Administrative staff

Each role contributes to the comfort, safety, and daily routines of Residents.

Explore River Ridge in Medicine Hat to learn more about this seniors living community in Alberta.

Can simple staff traditions improve teamwork?

Simple traditions can improve teamwork by creating informal opportunities for employees from different departments to connect.

At Hilton Villa seniors living community in Surrey, monthly staff birthday celebrations bring together people from nursing, housekeeping, dietary services, administration, and other roles.

These gatherings help employees get to know colleagues they may not work beside regularly. Over time, these connections can break down departmental silos and support more natural collaboration during busy shifts or community events.

Residents may not always see the work happening behind the scenes, but they often experience the results through coordinated support, familiar communication, and an empowered team that works well together.

What does employee support mean for families?

Employee support gives families greater confidence that their loved one is surrounded by a stable and engaged team.

When staff feel connected to their workplace and see opportunities to grow, they may be more likely to remain in the community. This helps preserve relationships and organizational knowledge while reducing the disruption that frequent staffing changes can create.

Families benefit from knowing that team members understand the Resident’s history, preferences, and changing needs. Staff also benefit from working in an environment where their efforts are recognized and their development is encouraged.

How does Park Place build continuity in seniors living?

Park Place builds continuity by supporting both the everyday employee experience and longer-term career development.

Comfortable staff spaces, appreciation events, wellness initiatives, team celebrations, and professional advancement all contribute in different ways. Together, they help create an environment where employees can feel connected to their colleagues, their work, and the Residents they support.

For Residents, that can mean more familiar faces and relationships that deepen over time. For families, it can mean greater confidence in the people supporting their loved one. For employees, it can mean building a meaningful career in seniors living without leaving behind the community connections they value.

Visit our About page to learn more about Park Place Seniors Living’s story, or contact a community near you. You are also welcome to book a tour where you can meet the team and explore what everyday life feels like over a cup of coffee.

The post Why Do Staff Retention and Career Growth Matter in Seniors Living? appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Park Place Seniors Living is pleased to share that Villa Marguerite in Edmonton has been awarded 11 funded beds through Recovery Alberta.

This initiative reflects a continued commitment to expanding access to specialized care for adults with complex and persistent mental health conditions who require a high-support rehabilitation environment.

The program will provide a highly structured, supportive setting with integrated clinical and functional supports, helping individuals transition from hospital settings back into the community.

Located within a dedicated wing at Villa Marguerite, the program is designed to serve individuals experiencing prolonged hospitalizations and significant barriers to community reintegration. Through a recovery-oriented approach, the program will focus on supporting individuals in achieving greater independence while ensuring a safe and supportive living environment.

Care will be delivered through a collaborative model, combining onsite supportive living services provided by Park Place Seniors Living with embedded clinical support from Recovery Alberta. This integrated approach will include access to mental health clinicians, psychiatric support, behavioral specialists, and structured programming tailored to individual needs.

With tentative move-ins anticipated in the fall, this program represents an important step in strengthening mental health rehabilitation services within the Edmonton region and supporting individuals in transitioning to more independent community living.

Further updates will be shared as the program progresses.

The post Recovery Alberta Awards 11 Funded Beds to Villa Marguerite, Edmonton appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Two Park Place Seniors Living team members are recognized for the compassion, dedication, and care they bring to residents and families every day.

Sandeep Veark, RN, from Agassiz Seniors Community and Jean Porsild, Housekeeper & Laundry Aide at Mill Lake Seniors Community, have been named recipients of the 2026 Fraser Health Care Community Awards in the Nursing Staff and Allied Health Staff categories, respectively. The awards recognize individuals working in long-term care and assisted living who enhance residents’ quality of life.

The awards celebrate individuals who make a meaningful difference for residents, families, and colleagues through exceptional care, teamwork, and service. Sandeep was recognized for his resident care, mentorship, and support of fellow team members. Jean was honored for more than 22 years of service, reliability, teamwork, and genuine care for residents.

The awards also highlighted the outstanding contributions of other Park Place team members. Liridona Mjekiqi, LPN, from Agassiz Seniors Community, was nominated in the Nursing Staff Category, while Resh Manjara, HCA, from Glenwood Seniors Community, was nominated in the Health Care Assistant Staff Category. Their nominations reflect the high standard of care provided across our communities every day.

Congratulations to Sandeep and Jean on this well-deserved achievement. We are proud to celebrate their contributions and grateful for the positive impact they have on the lives of those they serve.

The post Park Place Team Members Recognized with 2026 Fraser Health Care Community Awards appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Recently, members of the Park Place Seniors Living Corporate Office team came together at English Bay for a beach cleanup before gathering for lunch together.

What started as a simple volunteer activity quickly became a great opportunity to connect outside of the office, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to a cleaner community. Team members worked side by side collecting litter and helping care for one of Vancouver’s most iconic public spaces.

The day was a reminder that even small actions can have a positive impact. Beyond the cleanup itself, the event provided a chance to strengthen relationships, share a few laughs, and spend time together while supporting a cause that benefits the broader community.

At Park Place Seniors Living, we value opportunities to give back and make a difference in the communities where we live and work. We’re grateful to everyone who participated and helped make the day a success.

The post A Day of Teamwork and Community Impact appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Construction Progress Continues on Edmonton’s Newest Seniors Living Community

Park Place Seniors Living is pleased to share a significant construction update on Beverly Heights Seniors Community, our newest seniors living development in northeast Edmonton.

Just over a year after breaking ground in July 2025, the project has reached a major milestone with the completion of the building’s primary structural framework. Recent aerial images showcase the remarkable progress made across the site as Beverly Heights continues to take shape and move closer to welcoming future residents.

Spanning approximately 286,000 square feet, Beverly Heights will provide 264 senior living spaces, helping address the growing need for seniors housing and care services in Alberta. The community has been thoughtfully designed to support residents across a range of care needs while promoting comfort, dignity, and quality of life.

One of the defining features of Beverly Heights will be its 18 uniquely designed neighbourhoods, each created to foster a sense of belonging, meaningful connections, and personalized care. These smaller, resident-centered environments will support a welcoming and engaging lifestyle while helping residents feel truly at home.

The project officially broke ground in July 2025 in the presence of community leaders, government representatives, and local residents. Since then, construction has progressed steadily through challenging weather conditions and a demanding construction schedule. Thanks to the efforts of the many consultants, contractors, tradespeople, and project teams involved, work is now progressing from structural completion toward interior construction and finishing stages.

Construction is anticipated to be completed in early 2028, and Park Place Seniors Living looks forward to sharing additional milestones as work continues toward the community’s anticipated opening.

About Beverly Heights Seniors Community

Located in northeast Edmonton, Beverly Heights Seniors Community is a new Park Place Seniors Living development featuring 264 senior living spaces. Designed around 18 unique neighbourhoods, the community will provide a welcoming environment focused on comfort, dignity, connection, and personalized care for Alberta seniors.

Stay tuned for future construction updates as we continue building a community that residents and families will be proud to call home.

The post Beverly Heights Reaches Major Construction Milestone appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.

Dining is one of the most meaningful parts of daily life for seniors. It brings comfort, structure, nourishment, and often, a familiar sense of home.

At Park Place Seniors Living, a 100% Canadian, family-owned seniors living organization, meals are never treated as just another part of the schedule. For seniors and families exploring retirement living, dining can be one of the biggest emotional questions: Will meals feel enjoyable? Will there still be choice? Will my loved one be supported if they need help?

The answer is yes. Across Park Place Seniors Living communities, dining is shaped around comfort, dignity, safety, and connection.

In this article, we are looking at how Resident dining continues to evolve at Park Place Seniors Living, including a STRIVE Story from Devonshire Seniors Community in Edmonton, Alberta, where teamwork and attentive support helped transform the mealtime experience for Residents.

At a glance

• Who this is for: Seniors, families exploring retirement living, and caregivers who want to understand what dining can look like in seniors’ care.

• What it covers: Resident dining, mealtime support, food committees, family meals, and the Devonshire Care Centre STRIVE Story.

• Why it matters: Good dining experiences support comfort, nutrition, social connection, and overall well-being.

Why Dining Matters in Seniors Living

Meals are closely connected to health, independence, comfort, and quality of life. They also create natural opportunities to gather, connect with others, and enjoy familiar routines.

For many Residents, the dining room becomes a place where they recognize neighbours and team members, look forward to favourite meals, and share conversations with family and friends. These everyday moments can contribute to a greater sense of comfort and belonging.

A positive dining experience can support:

• Nutrition and oral intake
• Social connection and conversation
• Comfort through familiar routines
• Safety for Residents who need additional assistance
• Choice and personal preferences
• A stronger sense of community

At Park Place, dining is an important part of whole-person care. A familiar meal, a welcoming table, and attentive support can all contribute to helping Residents feel nourished, comfortable, and at home.

Dining at Park Place: Choice, Comfort, and Connection

Food is personal. Everyone has favourite meals, familiar flavours, cultural traditions, routines, and comfort foods. Respecting those preferences is an important part of the Resident experience.

Depending on the community and level of care, dining at Park Place may include:

• Freshly prepared meals served daily
• Comfortable, welcoming dining spaces
• Continental breakfast options
• Flexible meal programs or dining credits in some independent living communities
• Opportunities to provide feedback through food committees
• Private dining spaces for celebrations and family meals

At some communities, food committees give Residents an opportunity to share ideas, preferences, and feedback that can help shape their dining experience.

Choice can also be reflected in everyday moments, from participating in seasonal celebrations to enjoying a meal with neighbours, family, or friends. Family members and friends are often welcome to join Residents for meals, helping familiar traditions and connections continue.

To explore Park Place Seniors Living communities and the types of dining experiences available, visit our locations page.

A STRIVE Story: Transforming Dining at Devonshire Care Centre

At Devonshire Care Centre, the team recognized an opportunity to provide Residents with more consistent support during mealtimes.

The Devonshire team recognized that mealtimes were an area where Residents needed more consistent support. 

In response, the team focused on better oversight, clearer collaboration, and more attentive support during meals. The goal was simple: to make dining feel safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for Residents.

This is a strong example of Park Place Seniors Living’s STRIVE values in action:

• Safety and Quality: Supporting safer, more attentive dining experiences
• Teamwork and Partnerships: Working together across roles to meet Resident needs
• Responsibility and Stewardship: Noticing gaps and taking meaningful action
• Innovation and Creativity: Improving daily routines in practical ways
• Voices that are Respected: Listening to Residents and responding to their experience
• Empathy and Trust: Creating a mealtime environment where Residents feel cared for

What Should Families Ask About Dining?

Families exploring retirement living should ask how meals are prepared, how Resident feedback is gathered, and what support is available during dining.

A few helpful questions include:

• What meals are offered each day?
• Can Residents share menu preferences or participate in a food committee?
• Are family members welcome to join for meals?
• Is there a private dining space for special occasions?
• What support is available for Residents who need help eating or drinking?
• How are changes in appetite, hydration, or weight monitored?
• How does the team make dining feel social and comfortable?

These questions can help families better understand not only what is served, but how Residents are cared for during one of the most important parts of the day.

Dining that supports comfort, choice, and connection

The Devonshire Care Centre STRIVE Story is a reminder that meaningful change often happens in everyday moments. With teamwork, consistency, and care, mealtimes can become a powerful part of residents’ well-being.

Curious about dining at a Park Place Seniors Living community near you? Explore our locations, or book a tour to learn more about daily life, meals, and the people that make each residence feel like home.

The post Transforming Resident Dining at Park Place Seniors Living appeared first on Park Place Seniors Living by Carly Overs.