When Winnifred first arrived at Aspira Bearbrook Retirement Living, she didn’t want to be there. It was clear from the start that this transition was difficult for her. As Bearbrook’s Resident Engagement Manager, I’ve seen many residents go through an adjustment period, which is why we take extra care to get to know each person and respond to their individual needs.
Having lived independently her whole life, Winnifred was understandably hesitant. For the first few weeks, she spent her days sitting outside her room, quietly observing her surroundings but avoiding any interaction with her new space. She declined invitations to activities, meals in the dining room, and social gathering.
Instead of pushing her, we met Winnifred where she was. Each morning began with a warm greeting, a friendly chat in passing, and a few thoughtful gestures—like offering her favourite snacks. Slowly but surely, those small moments of care started to make a difference.
When we learned about Winnifred’s love for flowers, we invited her to join us on a flower-picking outing. That day, something wonderful happened. As she reached out to pick her first bloom, her face lit up with a genuine smile—the first we had seen since her arrival. In that moment, we knew things were changing.
That smile marked the start of something special. Winnifred gradually began joining activities, connecting with fellow residents, and even helping to arrange flowers around our home. Over time, she found comfort, belonging, and joy in our community. Her friendships with both residents and team members grew stronger, and Aspira Bearbrook became more than just a place to live—it became her home.
Moving into a retirement home can feel overwhelming, but with patience, compassion, and the right support, it can also mark the beginning of a new and fulfilling chapter. Winnifred’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the smallest gestures can lead to the biggest changes.
