How to make your retirement the best chapter of your life
Retirement is not an ending. It is a beginning. After decades of responsibility and showing up for others, this is a time that finally belongs to you. You might be wondering what this chapter could look like. Will it be restful? Purposeful? Joyful? The truth is, it can be all of those things and more. Your retirement can become the most meaningful, freeing, and fulfilling chapter of your life, especially when it is shaped by your choices, your pace, and your values. Whether you are already retired or beginning to plan ahead, this stage offers something rare and beautiful: the freedom to live intentionally. Read how to make the most of it.
At Optima Living, home is found in the moments we share. A Taste of Togetherness brings our communities to life through the familiar comfort of food, conversation, and connection. From laughter over coffee to meals shared around the table, these everyday moments create a true sense of belonging.
Join us for our Spring Open House on Saturday, April 18 from 1 pm to 4 pm and experience a community where warmth is felt, friendships grow, and every welcome feels genuine.
We invite you to bring your friends to our open house to discover senior living that truly feels like home.
Optima Living TV is coming soon with a fresh new format. Hosted by Principal Ali Shivji, this edition will take on a more conversational, podcast-style approach, offering deeper insight into the people and ideas shaping life at Optima Living.
In the upcoming episode, Ali will sit down with Chief Operating Officer Angela Grottoli and Regional Operations Manager Samantha Stewart to explore what leadership means within our communities and how it empowers team members to make thoughtful decisions that enrich the lives of both residents and team members. From mentoring new leaders to creating meaningful programs, the conversation will highlight how leadership influences everyday life across Optima Living communities. You’ll also hear stories of initiative in action, including a team member stepping into the kitchen to make
pancakes for nearly 200 residents. Stay tuned next month for more details!
In the meantime, visit our Youtube Channel for more content on senior living, lifestyle tips, and more!
Friendship is at the heart of life in our communities! Here, everyday moments grow into meaningful connections and lasting friendships. Shared meals spark engaging dinner conversations, board games and group activities bring laughter, and sports activities encourage connection through movement. Quiet outdoor chats and creative art experiences offer space for reflection and self-expression. These friendships play an important role in emotional well-being, helping residents feel supported, and feeling truly at home.
Aster Gardens celebrated the remarkable women in their community, honouring their contributions and fostering a warm spirit of connection.
Aloha from Aster Gardens! Residents enjoyed a delightful Hawaiian afternoon filled with delicious food, cheerful vibes, and wonderful company.
The Aster Gardens community was transported to Greece during their latest Passport to Paradise stop, enjoying flavourful Mediterranean dishes and a festive atmosphere. The experience was highlighted by a captivating Greek dance performance that brought smiles all around.
Wisteria Place came alive as they gathered to celebrate Holi together. The afternoon was filled with vibrant colours and playful moments that perfectly captured the festive spirit of the day.
The Wisteria Place community enjoyed a festive Easter celebration! They were visited by the Easter Bunny who spread happiness throughout the community.
Residents of Cottonwood Village took a delightful journey through Italy as part of the Passport to Paradise event. They savoured a full menu of Italian dishes and shared lots of smiles at the photo booth.
The Cottonwood Village community celebrated St. Patrick’s Day! They participated in festive activities and captured memorable moments together at the photo booth.
The Sweetgrass community was transported to Hawaii with spring rolls, savoury sauces, hand-crafted leis, and head pieces. The celebration came alive with vibrant Hawaiian music.
Laurel Heights celebrated St. Patrick’s Day! It was a joyful celebration full of meaningful moments and a selection of festive dishes.
Laurel Heights’ residents were transported to the sunny shores of Greece as they celebrated with music, laughter, delicious treats, and plenty of smiles. Moments like these remind everyone how powerful it is to try something new, and create memories that feel like a little getaway.
Easter crafts were in full swing at Everitt Gardens. Residents got creative by painting eggs, making a cheerful bunny garland, and enjoying festive decorations.
The hunt is on at Everitt Gardens! The Easter egg hunt had everyone searching high and low, with plenty of smiles along the way. Surprises appeared around every corner, keeping everyone on their toes.
The MacTaggart Place community enjoyed a beer tasting event in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. They sampled five different beers and learned about the clever design of the Guinness can.
Residents of MacTaggart Place celebrated the spirit of Hawaii! Everyone enjoyed exotic fruits, coconut cream pie, and chocolate macadamia nuts, while the Hula Hunnies entertained with lively dance.
Rutherford Heights’ Passport to Paradise journey continued with a stop in Greece! Residents enjoyed Greek music, Mediterranean treats, and a chance to explore the sights and culture of Greece together. It was a wonderful day filled with great conversation and unforgettable memories.
From apple picking to enjoying cinnamon apples, Rutherford Heights’ residents had a wonderful day together! They look forward to visiting again as the spring harvest blooms.
Sage Hill had the joy of welcoming the Calgary Robotics Kids Team, who showed the magic of robotics in the most heartwarming way. The young innovators amazed residents with their custom-built robots showing off impressive ball‑picking and ball‑throwing skills.
The Parkwood Place community gathered for a lively Pub Social to celebrate the hatching of our chicks. Sunshine, Chicklet, Tweety, Sylvester, and Jason Jr. were the chosen names!
Parkwood Place celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in the best way possible, with a scrumptious Sunday brunch buffet and festive décor to match! A huge shoutout to Chef Sam and their incredible culinary team, who came together to make it a memorable morning for residents and guests.
Parkwood Place’s Passport to Paradise event offered a lovely celebration of Greek culture. Dancers from the Greek Community Centre delighted residents with a traditional performance. The residents were also treated to a delightful afternoon tea featuring baklava pastries.
Parkwood Place’s Passport to Paradise journey continued with an evening celebrating the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Hawaii. Chef Sam curated a beautifully prepared menu, featuring a fresh tuna poke salad and a tender, slow-cooked Hawaiian pulled pork. Following dinner, residents enjoyed a captivating hula performance.
St. Patrick’s Day with a little spirit! From toe-tapping tunes to a touch of mischief, the residents of Oakwood Manor showed they still have plenty of charm and perhaps a bit of Irish luck too. Who says you slow down with age? At Oakwood Manor, celebrating only gets better with time.
The Kensington’s chef created an exquisite France-themed supper, bringing the flavours and charm of Paris straight to the dining room. Each beautifully prepared dish celebrated the rich traditions of French cuisine, delighting residents with every bite. Everyone enjoyed a wonderful evening filled with delicious food, warm conversation, and a festive atmosphere.
Aloha from Aspen Ridge! Residents enjoyed a spectacular Hawaiian escape, complete with leis, grass skirts, Piña Coladas, and a feast of pulled pork, Huli Huli chicken with pineapple coleslaw, Hawaiian fluff, and donuts. Hawaiian dancers brought the room to life with their performance.
Inglewood took a trip to Greece and it was absolutely beautiful! The food, the atmosphere, and the smiles said it all.
Aloha from Inglewood! Their residents packed their bags for Hawaii! They enjoyed a beautifully festive afternoon, marked by laughter, cheer, and the spirit of Hawaii.
St. Patrick’s Day at Meadowlands! They sure had a good time celebrating with great music and laughs.
The Hamlets at Red Deer community celebrated Easter with a delightful afternoon tea. Over 90 residents enjoyed classic teas, coffee, cakes, scones, and finger sandwiches, all served in our beautifully set dining room. Fancy teacups were put to good use, making the occasion feel extra special for everyone.
The Hamlets at Red Deer brought a taste of Greece to their bingo afternoon! Residents played lively games and enjoyed Greek-inspired treats, including feta dip with pita chips and sweet baklava. Laughter and friendly competition filled the room, making it a fun and flavourful celebration of Greek culture.
Deer Park Village brought a taste of island life with their Hawaii Dress-up Day and Aloha Social. Their residents enjoyed Island Luau Floats and embraced the tropical vibes. Music filled the air, laughter echoed throughout the room, and hula dancing performances brought the spirit of the islands to life.
Taste of Greece at Cedarwood Station! Residents enjoyed a delicious Greek buffet filled with wonderful flavours and even better company. Moments like these remind us that great meals are even better when shared!
The Hamlets at Duncan community germinated seeds and then carefully transplanted them, giving them space to grow. They are thriving, rooted in pots on the third-floor deck. Life finds its way, even up in the air. Their little garden is a reminder that growth doesn’t need perfect conditions – just a bit of care, patience, and light.
Easter at The Hamlets at Duncan was a day to remember. Residents embraced the season, enjoying moments of connection, fun, and festivity throughout the day.
Island vibes all around! Residents and guests enjoyed a lively ukulele sing-along with Tina and friends. There was punch, fresh fruit, snacks, and trivia for everyone to enjoy.
The Hamlets at Penticton wished everyone a very Happy Easter! The kids were on a mission, the eggs were hiding, and our team made sure the fun never stopped. What a beautiful day together!
We have suites available across our various communities, and we’d love to show you around. To get a feel for what living in our communities is like and to meet some of our residents and team members, you can book a private tour. Click the link below to schedule your visit. We hope to see you soon!
“Learning never exhausts the mind.”
— Leonardo da Vinci