As the population ages, the demand for diverse senior living options in Alberta is on the rise. The province’s elderly residents have a wide range of needs, preferences, and budgets. Some may require round-the-clock care, while others are simply looking for a community of peers with whom they can share their golden years. Still, others may need a little assistance with daily tasks but wish to maintain a level of independence. The good news is, there are plenty of options to suit every need.
It all starts with narrowing down the search based on those needs and one company in Edmonton is helping seniors do just that.
Suitebird is revolutionizing the way families search for senior housing by providing a local, user-friendly, and personalized digital platform. This online service was founded by John Pray, a seasoned expert in the senior care industry and formerly the CEO of Shepherd’s Care Foundation. With over 35 years of experience and a passion for helping families, John set out to create a solution to the challenges faced by seniors and their loved ones when searching for options.
With Suitebird, all clients have to do is fill out a straightforward form and wait for a call from the knowledgeable Suitebird navigator. Then, effortlessly schedule a viewing at the facility of their choice.
Through his extensive research and firsthand knowledge, Pray uncovered the common frustrations families encounter when using other websites to explore senior housing. Many people are unaware of the vast array of options available, and the process of calling and touring various communities can be time consuming and disheartening. This is where Suitebird shines. The platform is designed to be user friendly, guiding clients through the search process with ease.
However, what sets it apart is the personal touch. The Suitebird navigator, a seasoned professional with years of experience and in-depth knowledge of senior facilities and communities, is there to provide assistance and answers to all clients’ questions.
“We believe in the power of human connection, unlike websites that only rely on chatbots or sales intake numbers,” says Pray. “At Suitebird, we understand that awareness is key. Many seniors and their families are unfamiliar with the wide range of options that exist, from independent apartments to residences with concierge services, rental condos, life lease condos, cooperatives and more. We simplify the search process by asking the right questions and providing valuable insights into what matters most. We especially cater to families who live out of town and may not have the resources to locate the perfect place for their loved ones. Suitebird is your trusted ally, making the entire process stress-free and efficient.”
With its success in the local market, Suitebird is excited to expand to Calgary in the near future. Additionally, the company continues to forge relationships with Suitebird Preferred Partners, which are local organizations that can provide expert advice and services to simplify the move.
When it comes to deciding where to spend those golden years, some seniors choose to remain in their homes as long as possible. With home care services, this is an option that provides a great deal of flexibility and independence.
Care at Home by Exquisicare is a provider of reliable and compassionate home care services in Edmonton. Dawn Harsch and her team of experienced nurses help elderly clients live dignified and independent lifestyles in the comfort of their own homes. By offering a range of services including companion care, personal care, skilled nursing care, and respite care, they enhance the quality of life for seniors and provide peace of mind for their families.
Harsch says, “Most seniors prefer to stay in their own home as they age and having professional caregivers there for as little as three or maybe six hours a day can help them stay safely in their home for a long time. For those who need it, we also provide care around the clock so that anyone can truly stay safely at home through all the phases of their life.”
One of the advantages of choosing Care at Home over hiring someone privately is the thorough screening process. Each caregiver undergoes a comprehensive criminal background and reference check and receives ongoing training. This ensures that seniors receive care from trustworthy and qualified individuals who are dedicated to their well-being.
For those living in long-term care and supportive living facilities, Care at Home works with the site and the family to enhance the existing care provided. They strive to maintain the dignity and independence of seniors while bringing families closer together.
For those who choose to move, Christenson Communities offers a variety of choices.
Christenson Communities, a leading name in Alberta’s senior living sector, is redefining active adult living with its impressive offering of luxury rentals. The company is known for its spacious one bedroom, two bedroom and den suites that come with full kitchens, in-suite laundry, and large balconies. Some locations even have private courtyards.
“We have the ability to keep couples together longer through custom care plans and services to meet their current and future needs,” says Greg Christenson, president and co-owner of Christenson Developments.
These homes are not just about comfort, luxury and condo quality, but also about fostering a vibrant, socially active lifestyle. Residents at Christenson Communities have access to many personal services and onsite amenities. The communities are buzzing with activity, thanks to the dedicated onsite recreation teams that coordinate events and programs, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening. These activities also include spiritual enrichment, so those who practice a faith can continue to enjoy religious services in a convenient and accessible way.
Luxury is not just about the spacious suites and amenities. It is also about location. The communities are strategically located in familiar neighborhoods, making it easy for residents to stay connected with friends and family. This means residents can enjoy the benefits of low maintenance living without being cut off from their social circle – a very important factor as one ages.
Christenson Communities also offers respite care at some of its locations. This short-term care service can be incredibly helpful for those recovering from surgery or for caregivers who need a break, giving those in need of this service the luxury of time.
Christenson Communities is not just providing a place to live, but a lifestyle choice that combines luxury, convenience, and a sense of community. It’s about making the golden years truly golden.
Choice in senior housing is not just a luxury, but an essential aspect of ensuring our seniors’ well-being and quality of life. Alberta offers a wide range of senior living options, each with its unique benefits, features and price points. This diversity allows our elderly population to find a place that truly feels like home, whether they wish to age at home, require full-time care or are seeking a community of peers. It’s crucial that we continue to advocate for and support this variety, as it empowers our seniors to lead fulfilling, comfortable, and dignified lives during their golden years. After all, they’ve contributed so much to our society; it’s only right that we provide them with the best possible living arrangements in return.
