The Power of Shared Meals:

The Benefits of Group Dining for Seniors

Eating is one of life’s great pleasures, and it’s about so much more than food. Mealtimes offer built-in opportunities for connection, conversation, and even celebration. For many older adults, dining with a group can be one of the most meaningful parts of the day. When you're part of a shared dining experience, you're also part of something greater — a community.

Visit our library to learn more about how shared meals are a beneficial part of a senior's routine.

Starting a conversation about senior living can be tough for everyone involved. It’s tempting to put the conversation off. Maybe you’re worried about upsetting them or not sure what to say. These conversations often bring up big feelings: fear of change, guilt, uncertainty, or even resistance. However, having the conversation early and approaching it with care can make all the difference.

In the latest episode of Optima Living TV, we explore how to approach this conversation with care and compassion. Visit our YouTube channel to watch the episode and access our free Conversation Guide.

Music never fails to brighten our days! Whether it’s the challenge of learning a new instrument or simply relaxing and listening to a sweet melody, music brings comfort and joy. It can spark memories, encourage creativity, and help us express emotions that words can’t. At every age, music adds richness to our lives.

Last month, over 850 guests, including families, children, and residents, joined us for a lively and heartwarming Stampede Breakfast at The Edward! From delicious bites to toe-tapping acoustic tunes, it was a beautiful way to kick off the Stampede weekend. Thank you to everyone who came out and made it such a memorable event!

History can be found right in our own backyards! We spent a very informative day at the Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump, a World Heritage Site that preserves more than 6,000 years of Plains Buffalo culture. 

We had a lovely time soaking up the sunshine and enjoying pineapple mocktails at our Sunday afternoon social. Great conversation and delicious drinks were the perfect way to end our weekend.

Cheers to community and cozy evenings! We had a wonderful Saturday night, relaxing together with our favourite drinks in hand.

Our residents had a fantastic time at our weekly craft session. We love seeing everyone's artistic side come to life. Creativity always brings us so much joy.

Nothing says summer like an ice-cold slurpee! On July 11, we stopped by 7/11 to cool down with free slurpees.

Another beautiful day at Everitt Gardens was in full bloom! Our residents were out soaking up the good weather, watering flowers, and putting love into every garden bed. 

Happy hour hit all the right notes with karaoke! We loved seeing our talented residents sing their hearts out. What a beautiful way to spend the afternoon!  

In honour of Filipino Heritage Month last month, we proudly celebrated the rich culture and traditions of the Philippines right here at MacTaggart Place! Our residents were treated to a delicious Filipino dinner, followed by a surprise cultural performance by the talented Karilagan Dance Society. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event special! 

On July 16, our beloved Beverly Bayles celebrated her 100th birthday at Sage Hill! Born and raised in Calgary, Beverly has authored and published five novels. Her legacy is one of creativity, strength, and sparkle.  Alberta MLA Court Ellingson even dropped by to honour her with a special certificate! Beverely's Battle Cry at Batoche was a Canadian Children's Book Centre Our Choice, while Perilous Passage, about explorer and mapmaker David Thompson, was nominated for a Red Maple Award. 

We recently hosted a wine and cheese party for the opening of our Art Gallery! We showcased stunning works from Studio 30 Art Club, alongside breathtaking pieces by our talented residents and staff. Thank you to Stephanie Greaves for the live music that made the night extra magical! 

Did you know that Oakwood Manor offers monthly Brunch & Learn Seminars on how to support ageing loved ones? Attendees at the June 28th Brunch & Learn session were delighted with a complimentary brunch, community tour, and 3 guest speakers who are experts in their industries. A big thank you to Ryan, Brown from RBC Wealth  Management and to Tricia Perrier and Laurie Mueller from Heartfelt Books. We hope to see you at the next Brunch & Learn!

On July 18th, we celebrated our incredible team member Dan Robinson for bringing home gold at the 2025 Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games!  We’re so proud of you, Dan — thank you for bringing this amazing win home to Inglewood!"

We had an incredble time at the RCMP dog presentation! We were so impressed by the skills and agility of these four legged crime fighters. We always have a wonderful time learning and laughing with friends! 

Our residents recently created homemade Sugar Scrub Jars! Sugar scrubs help smooth skin, unclog pores, and improve circulation. The scents we added to our scrubs smelled good enough to eat! We had so much fun working on this beautiful and beautifying craft.

Calling all stitchers and knitter enthusiasts!  Our stitchers and knitters group is looking for donations of acrylic yarn (weight 4 and 5) and 100% cotton yarn.
Your donations can be dropped off at Cedarwood Station and will help us create something truly special! We have lots of room for anyone who would like to join our group on Tuesday evenings.

We had the pleasure of hosting a sound therapy session for our residents. Sound therapy, also known as sound healing, utilizes sound and vibration to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. The goal of this practice is to restore balance and harmony within the body and mind.

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!

"Love the life you live. Live the life you love."

- Bob Marley