When most of us think about the holidays, we imagine lively get-togethers with family and friends, and enjoying traditional food and drink, music and other traditions. For older adults, though, the holidays can be a lonely and difficult time.

According to a Report on the Social Isolation of Seniors (Government of Canada), up to 20 per cent of older adults have symptoms of depression. Social isolation and loneliness are the most common cause, but so are lack of exercise or physical activity which has proven to be so important to good mental health.

During the holiday season, older adults may also more keenly feel the absence of a spouse, family members or friends, and the separation from loved ones who may not live nearby.

At Tapestry, we love to celebrate all the holidays, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere enjoyed by both our residents and employees. From decorations to traditional meals created by our talented culinary teams, to special events such as hot chocolate tastings or visiting choirs, themed art or craft classes, we offer up holiday cheer that is sure to lift your spirits.

Jean, who is a resident at Arbutus Walk, moved into Tapestry last November after 60 years in her family home. Both an injury, and issues with upkeep of the home, were factors in her decision to move at that time.

“I had been to Tapestry before to visit friends,” Jean says. “I knew that when I moved, this was where I would go.”

Jean says that originally she was planning to move in December, but once her two daughters saw Tapestry firsthand, they suggested she move in earlier so that she could fully enjoy the holiday season.

Jean adds that she had always hosted Christmas Day, but with her growing family it was getting more and more difficult to get everyone together. At Tapestry, she says, “They do a really nice job. The decorations, and the menus. There are always events going on and I was always going somewhere or doing something. And I could wait for people to invite me out, so it was the best of both worlds,” she adds.

Joining his son and family in Canada was paramount for John, who moved to Tapestry at Arbutus Walk last December from the United Kingdom. John says he had been spending six months at time in Canada but wanted to make the move here permanent.

“As soon as I walked into Tapestry, I knew this was the place for me,” says John. “I really enjoyed Christmas here. The atmosphere is like being at home. Everyone makes you feel so welcome – both the employees, and the people who are living here – so it’s like being in your own home, but you are meeting new people,” he adds.

You may be thinking you want to spend “just one more” Christmas or Hannukah where you are now. At Tapestry, you will benefit not only from a more active and social lifestyle, but you can also leave the chores to us. No more shoveling of snow or dealing with icy steps. We’ll help you keep your private suite clean, and you can choose to dine in our Restaurant or Pub if you don’t feel like cooking.

Jean says she likes that she doesn’t need to worry about home maintenance anymore. “It did snow a little bit last year, and I didn’t have to worry about that,” she says. And John adds that he enjoys the option of eating in one of Tapestry’s dining venues if he doesn’t feel like cooking.

You can also choose to entertain friends or family members in your own suite over the holidays or book a private dining room and let our talented culinary team create an event your guests will not forget.

If you’ve been considering retirement living for your future, now is a great time to make the move to Tapestry. The holidays are sure to feel merrier and brighter when surrounded by new friends, and with all the activities we have on offer.

And you’ll want to act fast. There is a limited inventory of suites available at each of our unique and beautifully-appointed communities in Vancouver. Please contact us – we would be pleased to host you for a complimentary lunch and private tour.