Tapestry Senior-Living Communities Prove That Age Is Just a Number
It’s never too late to make friends, try something new or create memorable moments.
Growing older is a gift, but sometimes the media, our health-care system and even our own personal age biases don’t make it seem that way. Traditional assisted-living communities—with their institutional feel—can reinforce stereotypes. That’s what makes Tapestry so different. With four senior living communities in Canada (three in BC and one in Ontario), Tapestry helps residents live healthy, engaged and purposeful lives in a wellness-inspired environment. (And Tapestry has been recognized with Pinnacle and Beacon Awards which recognize the top 25 seniors’ communities for wellness in North America.)
Here are five myths around aging that Tapestry shatters with its focus on wellness and helping residents remain independent longer so they can continue to fulfill their goals and life’s purpose.
1. Myth: Age is an accurate way to assess our physical and cognitive abilities.
Defining people purely by the number of candles on their birthday cake is ageism—and it’s wrong! According to a 2021 report by the World Health Organization (WHO), ageism is a widespread human rights problem that affects billions of people globally. Not only can it limit our own ideas of what we think we can achieve at any age, but it also impacts the way people treat us, the goals we’re encouraged to set and the health-care options we’re offered.
Tapestry knows age is just a number and it shouldn’t act as a barrier to a fulfilling life. At Tapestry communities, residents of all ages are physically active, pursue creative and philanthropic pursuits, teach classes, mentor, volunteer and much more. Wellness has seven dimensions (physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, environmental and occupational) and Tapestry knows it’s important to foster them at every age to sustain your well-being and maintain your independence.
2. Myth: Adventure is for the young.
Who says the fun has to stop after 70 or 80 years of age? Tapestry believes it’s never too late to enjoy a new experience and there’s no need to limit your choices (or let someone else limit them for you) based on your age. Ever wanted to skydive? Snowshoe? Kayak? Walk the CN Tower Edge Walk at 553 metres above Toronto’s downtown core or zip line at the Niagara gorge? These are all activities that Tapestry residents have enjoyed together. Tapestry believes age should not be a barrier to seeking new adventures, whatever they may be!
3. Myth: Our contributions to our communities will decline as we age.
Every person at every age can have a meaningful impact on society and the world. One aspect of wellness is “occupational” and it’s an important part of our own well-being (not to mention the health of our communities). Last year at Tapestry’s Victoria Harbour community, residents created the “Patchwork of the Heart” quilt and sold tickets to a raffle that offered buyers the chance to win the spectacular quilt. The residents’ efforts raised more than $20,000 for the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA), which is working to create long-term housing solutions for Ukrainians fleeing war. We all have value no matter our age and we have power to create meaningful change.
4. Myth: Loneliness is a normal part of getting older.
No one should have to spend their later years on their own. Living in a vibrant community where individuals engage with each other every day is a simple way to combat isolation and feelings of aloneness. Plus, being more sociable is life-enriching and is linked to better cognitive performance and a lower risk of dementia. The reason? It could be because the act of socializing requires people to use their memory and language skills, keeping the brain active and stimulated. Continuing to learn and keeping active are also important ways to hinder cognitive decline. With its focus on the 7 Dimensions of Wellness, Tapestry offers plenty of options for socialization, exercise and learning.
5. Myth: Living at home is the only way to be independent.
The isolation that comes from living at home alone may not be the most optimal for your brain or body. If you choose to live in a seniors’ community like Tapestry, you can maintain your independence while focusing on doing all the things you love instead of housekeeping and home maintenance. At the same time, you can easily access health services (medication administration, blood-pressure monitoring, shower and grooming support) you may need to retain your independence for as long as possible. Tapestry’s health services are provided discreetly in the comfort and privacy of your home. Residents who live at Tapestry love living independently in their beautifully-appointed home as part of a vibrant community where they can be safe, healthy, active and engaged.
Want to learn more about Tapestry’s communities for seniors? Visit DiscoverTapestry.com.
