Thinking About a Move to an Older Adult Community This Year?

It is important when looking for retirement options that you can continue to live your current lifestyle while knowing you are able to plan for continuing care should you need it.

Our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities offer a wide range of floor plans and amenities, unique programming, our revolutionary dementia care program and, of course, very flexible meal times and menus.

Besides the more common questions about cost, size of the suites, floor plans and amenities, there are other questions that you should ask yourself that can have a big impact on your quality of life.

Are pets welcome?

Absolutely! United is a pet-friendly community. Residents have birds, fish, cats and dogs in their suites.

And, just recently, a bunny was added to the list at Garrison Green. Pets are part of the family so we feel they should move with you.

If you would like more information about moving to a United community with your pet, contact one of our senior living advisors who would be pleased to answer your questions.

I may be healthy now, but what happens when I experience a health change?

United offers a range of services that meet your needs and goals as they change over time. Our services adapt with you, ensuring you always receive the support you need to live a rich and fulfilling life.

There is nursing support available 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week through the United Cares services. The United approach is focused on each person within a social model of care rather than a medical model. That means that we see you as a person, not a patient.

We focus on your strengths not your medical conditions, and the residents tell us how they want to live. We ask ourselves with each interaction how we can make your life enjoyable and meaningful.

Will I be separated from my spouse if one of us develops health issues?

An important part of our philosophy is to support the close ties that spouses have by helping them remain together if they choose.

Husbands, wives or life partners often want to stay together no matter the health issues they face. The two then can participate in programs and activities together that support the general well-being of both.

Will I be able to continue living in my suite should my cognitive abilities change?

Research has shown that those with dementia do better when included within the general community population. At United we are an inclusive community and do not segregate based on level of care. All residents are encouraged to participate in programs and events.

Living with dementia does not mean you have to stop being who you are. You are able to have new adventures, to make new friends and to learn new things.

At United, we have purposely designed our environments, our United Minds program and our specialized staff education to support you in maintaining your independence.

What do I want the next chapter of my life to look like?

Living a full life in your later years is our focus at United communities. Programs are designed around the interests of the residents. The art studios, for instance, are open and facilitated by professional artists.

A kinesiologist leads exercise classes and can also design individual programs. We have a dozen partnerships that give the residents opportunities to be involved in different aspects of arts and culture in Calgary – for example Calgary Civic Symphony, Lunch Box Theatre and the Calgary Philharmonic.

What is my initial reaction when visiting the community? Do I feel comfortable and welcome? Can I see myself living here?

Residents have told us that they felt immediately at home when they first entered one of our communities. That’s the way it should be.

Making new friends, learning new things and enjoying life are some of the reasons new residents choose a United community. 

We have a new resident welcome program, where current resident “ambassadors” welcome them and show them how life at United works. This is your new home and it should feel that way.

Is there a way to stay for a short time in one of your communities?

One of the best ways to get to know what life at United can look like is to stay with us for a short time in one of our hospitality suites for either respite or trial stays. 

Both communities offer short-term stay suites if you’re recovering from surgery, or if you just want to test drive what living in an older adult community is like. Give our active living advisors a call to make the arrangements.