It took almost a year to convince our parents it was time to leave their family home. They were in their eighties, feisty and determined to age in place. But they were also starting to slow down. The stairs were becoming a problem. The pandemic restrictions hampered their social life. And, tragically, our mother, Joanne, began a painful descent into Alzheimer’s. Our father, Bernie, struggled to care for her, prepare meals and do household chores. My sister and I helped, but as time passed, it was clear they were both suffering and something had to change.
We decided to broach the subject gently but persistently. Every month or so, we would ask them how they were coping, how they might feel about moving to a seniors’ residence. At first, they balked, which was natural. So, we tried to make it easier for them to remain at home. We installed safety bars in the shower and a stairlift. We cooked for them, stayed over to give Dad a break, arranged for help. But finally, he admitted that he was exhausted and ready to move.
By then, we had found the Shores of Port Credit. My husband and I toured it in January of 2023 and immediately liked the bright open spaces, the beautiful dining room, the comfortable suites with views of Lake Ontario and the food. We were also impressed with the Memory Care unit, anticipating that Mom would eventually switch to that floor as her disease progressed. We were comforted knowing that, although our parents might be in separate suites one day, they could still be together as they had been for 66 years.
We took them to see the Shores and their resistance to moving evaporated. By the end of March, they were settled in their unit, enjoying the organized activities and making new friends. They both gained weight and the light in our mother’s eyes returned. It was a gift but, sadly, it was short-lived.
Less than a month after moving in, our beloved mother passed away following a brief illness. The shock and grief were overwhelming. Our father was suddenly a widower in a new setting. But the wonderful residents and caring staff at the Shores helped him heal from his terrible loss. The nurses and PSWs made sure he remained healthy as he grieved. His friends supported him with their kindness. He was alone but never lonely.
As the months passed his friendships deepened, and his days were full. Lunches and dinners were delicious and fun. He loved the live music in the Bistro and the evening movies. On many nights when I called him, I could hear the clink of glasses in the background. It was another gathering of friends for drinks and laughs. One day he told me how his life had changed since moving to the Shores. “I was concerned that my world would get smaller. But thanks to all the people I’ve met and the stories we’ve shared, it’s so much bigger.”
His expanded world was also a joy for my sister and me. He was engaged in an active and stimulating community. He was safe and happy. We loved visiting our father, chatting with his friends, playing pool and watching films. The Shores became our home-away-from-home, and our world grew larger, too.
Sadly, our sweet father died in January of 2025 at the age of 91. Our hearts are broken, and our days are emptier without both our Dad and Mom. How we wish they had lived much longer. But we are also forever grateful they moved to the Shores of Port Credit, a place where they found a compassionate community and a loving home.
Enjoy the exceptional amenities, activities and freedom of Independent Living at The Shores while receiving discreet, personalized support in the comfort of your Independent Living suite. Services are arranged for a fee on a temporary or permanent basis.
