Delmanor Northtown – Be a Santa to a Senior Gift Wrapping Party

All holiday season, the 'Be a Santa to a Senior' volunteers led by Sharon from Home InsteadSenior Care, collect, wrap, and distribute gifts to lonely or less fortunate seniors in the North York area.

 

Sharon, Kelly and one of the many volunteers

Volunteers of this association have helped to provide 1.2 million gifts to more then 700,000 seniors who might not otherwise receive gifts this holiday season.

 

Gifts ready to go

Delmanor Northtown appreciates their efforts and supports their cause each year, by hosting their gift wrapping party.  The retirement community looks a little like Santa’s Workshop, with stacks of donated gifts and the volunteers busy at work wrapping!

The 'Be a Santa to a Senior' initiative is a feel good program that truly puts smiles on the faces of local seniors.  No matter how big or small the gift is, the recipients often say that the visits from the volunteering delivery elves are even more appreciated than the gifts themselves.  Simply having someone drop in to spread holiday cheer can brighten the spirit of someone that may be spending the holidays alone.

   

Taking a well deserved break!

If you would like more information regarding Delmanor Northtown Seniors Communities and donating time or a gift to the 'Be a Santa to A Senior' organization, please contact Laurie at (416) 225-9146 or online at delmanor.com

 

 

Delmanor Prince Edward Founders Christmas Luncheon

Delmanor Prince Edward's greatly anticipated grand opening is drawing near and enthusiastic future residents are counting down until the exciting day arrives.

To celebrate the season and the recently established Delmanor Prince Edward Founders Club, a lovely afternoon was planned that was devoted to holiday cheer and celebrating new friends over the holidays.

Nikki and Julie with Santa

 
A fabulous festive buffet was complimented by decadent holiday treats.  Guests enjoyed the wonderful meal and discussed the exciting plans for Delmanor Prince Edward!

To learn more about Delmanor Seniors Communities exciting new property, Delmanor Prince Edward, please contact Nikki Lewis or Julie Shuster at the Presentation Centre at (416) 233-0725 or visit them online at delmanor.com

Celebrating the Holiday Season at Delmanor Northtown

Residents, friends and family members of Delmanor Northtown, along with Northtown staff were delighted with the much anticipated annual holiday celebration.

 
 


This was Delmanor Northtown's 5th annual holiday party and it has grown larger and even more fantastic with each coming year.  Over 375 guests attended the holiday celebration and the entire residence was filled with laughter and holiday cheer.  The cozy lounges were warm with the glow of the fireplaces and the festive decorations added to the already overflowing holiday spirit.

The evening was complimented with live music, valet parking and a spectacular buffet with beverages.  The elegant private dining room was filled with delightful desserts and a stunning buffet table that stretched the length of the dining room that showcased the delicious desserts prepared by the Northtown Chefs.

The Delmanor Northtown seniors were delighted to be able to invite family and friends to their beautiful home and were proud of the unforgettable evening that they were able to share.

Happy Holidays from everyone at Delmanor Northtown!

If you would like to learn more about retirement living at Delmanor Northtown or to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Laurie Fortin, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (416) 225-9146 or online at delmanor.com

Franklin Horner Community Centre Christmas Luncheon

There is lots of anticipation surrounding the holiday season and the exciting new residence from Delmanor Seniors Communities, Delmanor Prince Edward.

160 members of the Horner Community Centre joined with Delmanor Prince Edwards' Nikki Lewis and Julie Shuster for a fun and festive holiday luncheon to spread Christmas cheer.  Guests were treated to a wonderful turkey dinner with all of the holiday fixings, while Nikki and Julie served wine to guests in their festive Santa hats.

Special thanks were given to the amazing Franklin Horner Volunteers and staff for cooking the festive feast and to Delmanor Prince Edward for sponsoring the joyous event!

Franklin Horner Community Centre Logo

A very special holiday memory was made during this happy afternoon.  Friends, wonderful food and holiday cheer made for a very memorable time for all!

If you would like to learn more about Delmanor Prince Edward, you can contact Nikki and Julie at the Presentation Centre at (416) 233-0725 or online at delmanor.com

Technology Workshop Sponsored by Delmanor Prince Edward

Seniors everywhere are using technology to enhance their quality of life, stay connected to family and friends and share knowledge and wisdom.

Chris Bint and his team travel across the GTA teaching seniors about computers, laptops, tablets, facebook, twitter and so much more!

This very popular seminar held at the Islington Seniors Centre was sponsored by Delmanor Prince Edward, who also provided bus transportation and refreshments for the guests.  The seniors in attendance were thrilled with the opportunity to learn more about computers and technology and how they could enhance their lives and stay better connected with loved ones.

There were 80 seniors in attendance to this workshop, many of who asked intriguing questions that were thoroughly answered by the informative presenter Chris Bint.

The event was such a tremendous success that Delmanor Prince Edward will be sponsoring another workshop in the Spring!

If you would like to learn more about Delmanor Prince Edward, the exciting new property from Delmanor Seniors Communities scheduled to open in the Spring of 2014, you can contact Nikki Lewis or Julie Shuster at (416) 233-0725 to visit the presentation centre or more information is available online at delmanor.com

Delmanor Wynford Residents Learn Ballet!

Ballet is a type of performance dance that originated in the Italian Renaissance Courts of the 15th Century and later developed into a concert dance form in France and Russia.  It has since become a widespread, highly technical form of dance.  It has been globally influential and has defined the foundational techniques used in many other dance genres.  Ballet requires years of training to master and much practice to retain proficiency. 

Residents warming up!

The residents of Delmanor Wynford were excited and very enthusiastic about learning this beautiful and graceful dance style.  Both the ladies and gentlemen participated in the first class and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.  The residents learned a series of ballet techniques under the direction of Ballet Mistress, Adelaide Kesler.  Residents began the class at the ballet barre for warm up and then progressed to the centre of the room as they took on bigger movements.  During the first class, residents were encouraged to concentrate on proper form and not as much on technique.  Every resident that participated in the class commented on how much they enjoyed the experience and how great they felt by the end of the first class!

 

 

 

Ballet Mistress, Adelaide Kesler, was extremely encouraging and knowledgeable in her art.  She informed the residents that taking part in a ballet class is good for the body and the mind.  She also indicated that along with promoting cardiovascular fitness and good posture, ballet is very enjoyable for people of all ages!  The seniors at Delmanor Wynford are really looking forward to the weekly ballet classes with Adelaide and learning the foundational techniques of the dance!

 

If you would like to learn more about the many exciting recreational activities taking part at Delmanor Wynford, or if you would like to tour the residence, please contact Pam Palmer, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (416) 331-9797 or online at delmanor.com

 

Aging Well with Athlete Earl Fee at Delmanor Northtown

Mr. Earl Fee, master athlete, came to Delmanor Northtown to host an insightful seminar about his athletic accomplishments and his tips for aging well.

Earl & Michael

Earl is the author of the books, "How to be a Champion from 9 to 90", and, "100 Years Young the Natural Way - Body, Mind, Spirit".  Earl started his career as an above average high school runner and held a working career as a nuclear engineer.  After a 33 year break from competitive athletics, he ran his first race at age 56.  Over the past 25 years, he has set over 50 age related world records in running and hurdles.

Earl - from Wikipedia - A True Athlete

Earl shared his experiences, lifestyle habits and natural methods for preventative maintenance with the seniors and ways in which everyone can use these methods to reduce their actual age.

The inspirational seminar encouraged the Delmanor seniors to continue to participate in the variety of excellent fitness programs offered at Delmanor Northtown. 

Delmanor LivingWell Coach Sue, Earl, Pepa & Beverley

If you would like to learn more about the healthy and active lifestyle you too can experience at Delmanor Northtown please contact Laurie Fortin, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (416) 225-9146 or online at delmanor.com

Steps to LivingWell

Does seeing the glass half full mean you will be healthier later in life? A growing body of evidence suggests that positive thinking does correlate with less illness and longer lives. In general, people who maintain a positive attitude tend to make healthier lifestyle choices, get more physical activity, follow a healthier diet and have lower rates of smoking and alcohol consumption.

Negative thoughts can sneak into your mind and, before you know it, you’re focused upon them. The first step is to identify a negative thought so you can cast it away. The best way I know to label a thought is to ask yourself if thinking it makes you feel lousy. Other positive thinking tips may include:

• Pray, meditate and have gratitude
• Recall happy moments such as weddings and births
• Read positive quotes to reinforce positive thinking
• Have fun and smile J

Try to focus and put your energy on positive thinking and reasons to feel happy and hopeful every day and you may discover that positive thinking really does help you feel better.

“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.”  ― Abraham Lincoln

Richmond Hill Santa Claus Parade

Santa Claus came to Richmond Hill!  The residents and staff of Delmanor Elgin Mills had a joyous time participating in this fun annual event.

The Delmanor Bus entered the parade for the 4th year.  The bus looked fabulous and definitely demonstrated all of the hard work that went into its' decoration.  A pile of wrapped gifts sat on the roof with Mary the Moose leading the way!

The Delmanor Elgin Mills staff felt a real sense of adventure as they climbed onto the roof to decorate the bus, while the residents watched in mock horror!

Delmanor staff members, along with the seniors, boarded the bus, armed with hot chocolate, jingle bells and candy canes.  While the parade made its way down Yonge St., community members laughed with delight while the Delmanor team passed out candy canes and shared Christmas greetings.  The residents were warm and cozy on the bus and sipped their hot chocolate while waving at all of the children on the streets.

Everyone had a jolly time spreading the happiness and magic of Christmas and can not wait for the parade next year!

If you would like more information about retirement living at Delmanor Elgin Mills, or to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Susan Applebaum, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (905) 770-7963 or online at delmanor.com

Delmanor Northtown's Bone China Tea

Residents of Delmanor Northtown were invited to a special Bone China Tea event in recognition of Osteoporosis Awareness Month.  It was a fantastic opportunity to kick off a month that included two special seminars designed to improve understanding of Osteoporosis and how to reduce one's risk of fractures.  The seniors were treated to refreshments and live music throughout the afternoon that further added to the enjoyment of the event.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone deteriorates, becoming porous and brittle.  This deterioration leads to frailty and the risk of fractures, particularly to the hip, spine and wrists.  At least 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will suffer from a fracture during their lifetime.  Over 80% of all fractures in people over the age of 50 are caused by Osteoporosis. 

Delmanor Northtown's LivingWell Program Coach Sue Merritt, a trainer for Osteoporosis Canada, highlighted how a combination of exercise and good nutrition throughout your retirement years works along with osteoporosis education to help prevent injuries.  The residents learned a great deal during the seminar and feel confident that they will be doing all they can to prevent injuries in the future.

If you would like more information about Delmanor Northtown's LivingWell Program and educational seminars, please contact Kelly James or Laurie Fortin at (416) 225-9146 or visit them online at delmanor.com

Delmanor Glen Abbey Residents Share Random Acts of Kindness

The Random Act of Kindness initiative is an incentive to inspire people to practice kindness and pass it on to others. 

The phrase may have originated from Anne Herbert who claims to have written a note on a restaurant place mat encouraging kindness and senseless acts of beauty, whether spontaneous or planned.

Delmanor Glen Abbey residents and staff attended the Friday Night Fish Fry at their local legion.  Since November is 'Random Acts of Kindness Month', the seniors decided to take scrumptious desserts for everyone that was attending the Fish Fry.

Much to the surprise of the residents and staff, an anonymous guest in attendance paid it forward by paying for all of the Delmanor meals in order to participate with their own act of kindness.

Enjoying the fish fry

With much gratitude, the residents and staff decided to donate the money allocated for their meals directly back to the legion.  The day was a fantastic example of paying it forward and random acts of kindness.

The seniors found the event both warm and reassuring in the kindness that can be found in all of us.

If you would like to learn more about retirement living at Delmanor Glen Abbey, or to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Julie Shuster, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (905) 469-3232 or online at delmanor.com

The Royal Ontario Museum Comes to Delmanor Northtown

The seniors from Delmanor Northtown were treated to a special presentation from the Royal Ontario Museum.

In its premiere North American engagement, R.O.M staff introduced the seniors to the unique exhibit from the British Museum that focused on excavations from the 19th and 20th centuries in Sumer, Assyria and Babylon.

The term Mesopotamia comes from the Greek language meaning "land between two rivers".  Representatives from the R.O.M shared beautiful images and stories behind the amazing archeological finds. 

This rare opportunity at the R.O.M portrays 170 exceptional artifacts gathered at the museum for the first time.  The Delmanor residents were thrilled when some of the amazing artifacts were presented to them in person to hold and enjoy.  This small taste of the R.O.M's Mesopotamia exhibit sparked interest for the seniors to take a trip to see the complete exhibition.

For more information about upcoming events at Delmanor Northtown, or if you would like to tour the residence, please contact Laurie Fortin, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (416) 225-9146 or online at delmanor.com

Recounting Canadian War History with Delmanor Elgin Mills

Billy Bishop was a Canadian First World War flying ace.  Credited with 72 victories, Billy Bishop was the top Canadian pilot of World War 1.

Residents of Delmanor Elgin Mills were excited to take part in this dynamic 3-dimensional presentation that was brought to the residence by Jeffrey Tradburks.

Jeffrey took the seniors back in time with fascinating stories, a captivating slide show presentation, and most impressive of all was his 1/4 scale operational model airplane.

Jeffrey Tradburks with his model aircraft

The presentation was captivating and inspiring.  Jeffrey encouraged the residents to share their experiences and memories of war time.  Passion and emotion filled the room as life moments were remembered for the significant roles they have played in Canadian history.  The residents really appreciated this in depth display of the life of Billy Bishop and his dramatic influence on Canadian war history.

If you would like to gain further information about retirement living at Delmanor Elgin Mills, or to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Susan Applebaum, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (905) 770-7963 or online at delmanor.com

Celebrating Halloween at Delmanor Elgin Mills

The residents of Delmanor Elgin Mills definitely know how to party!  This year they took their Halloween celebrations to a new level.  Instead of simply celebrating Halloween in the evening, the seniors and staff made it a full day Halloween extravaganza!

The day began with a pumpkin carving competition between the Delmanor Elgin Mills Managers.  Residents cheered on their favourite design while the Managers carved their creations.  Residents and staff alike enjoyed the fun and competitive spirit that was evident between the contestants.

Elgin Mills Staff at the Pumpkin Carving Competition

After lunch, a 'trick or treating' hunt began within the residence.  The seniors followed a map to find costumed team members cleverly hiding throughout the building.  There was great participation from the seniors, both in wearing costumes and taking part in the 'trick or treat' hunt.

The Halloween festivities continued with a fantastic Halloween concert and costume competition, where winners were determined by applause from the audience.  Both staff members and residents were awarded with 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes.  The seniors had a great time trying to guess who was hiding behind the costumes. 

Despite the miserable weather outside, Delmanor Elgin Mills was alive with a spooky theme, wonderful costumes and loads of fun!  If you would like to learn more about retirement living at Delmanor Elgin Mills or to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Susan Applebaum, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (905) 770-7963 or online at delmanor.com

Steps to LivingWell

A cold or the flu can be especially risky for people over age 65 because they are more likely than younger adults to develop life-threatening complications. Colds and the flu are contagious viral illnesses that spread primarily through the release of viral particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The illnesses can also be contracted by touching a virus-contaminated object and then transferring the germs to your eyes, nose or mouth. It's important to prevent viral infections, because treatment options are limited. Hospitalization may be necessary if complications occur.

There are steps you can take in your daily life to help protect you from getting the flu.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub. Encourage those around you to do the same.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• Practice good health habits. Get plenty of sleep and exercise, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat healthy food.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• If you are sick with a flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.

Nobody wants to get the flu, especially if you are older. As one doctor recently told me, “The best way to deal with the flu is simply not to get it.”

Brought to you by your LivingWell Coaches.

Northtown 'Razzle Dazzle' Presents.......

Delmanor Northtown has a very unique & diversely talented group of residents.  Among these vibrant seniors includes a comedic group who call themselves the "Razzle Dazzle Players Group".

The talented party joined together with the common passion of making people laugh.  The Razzle Dazzle Group came up with the idea of presenting a comedy show for their fellow residents and guests.

The Razzle Dazzle Group held several rehearsals and dress rehearsals after working together to gather the needed props to add to their show.  Much detail went into the preparation of the show in terms of staging, lighting and sound equipment.  A solid devotion and hours of practice chased away any nerves and stage fright that may have influenced their performance.

The room was filled with family, friends and neighbours.  Not a single area of floor space was available for an additional chair.  The packed house eagerly awaited this much anticipated event and could not wait for the production to begin!

Energy, vibrancy and laughter filled the room and spilled out into the common areas of Delmanor Northtown.  Smiles and cheer were in abundance and everyone in attendance were laughing hysterically at the excellent production.  Everyone at Delmanor Northtown is eagerly awaiting the next Razzle Dazzle show......coming soon to a Delmanor Northtown stage near you!!

If you would like to obtain more information about retirement living at Delmanor Northtown or if you would like to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Laurie Fortin, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (416) 225-9146 or online at delmanor.com

Delmanor Wynford's Second Annual Charity Golf Tournament

In 2012 Delmanor Wynford organized a charity golf tournament.  It was such a fantastic success, that players and spectators encouraged Delmanor Wynford to make it an annual event.  The team was excited to hold another fundraiser that would continue to raise money for the Woodbine Food Bank.

The event kicked off just after noon with the first team of 4.  The tournament was organized as a Scramble with almost double the  number of players from last year!  About 1 1/2 hours into the event, the weather changed for the worst, and the golfers were forced inside by heavy rainfall and winds.

 

Much to their delight, the golfers were greeted by the warm and friendly faces of the Flemington Park management and staff. A variety of delicious fresh sandwiches, crudités, desserts and beverages were served until the weather improved. The golfers returned to the course refreshed and content for the balance of their 9 hole game.

 

 

The Winning Team!

Wynford's Pam Palmer & Monique Kuhn

 

A number of winning players selected from the amazing prizes that were donated by sponsors of the tournament. In all, it was a very successful day with a total of $1,100 collected for the Woodbine Heights Food Bank.  Everyone that took part in the event are looking forward to the 3^rd annual Delmanor Wynford annual charity golf tournament in 2014!

Wonderful prizes!

If you would like to obtain more information about retirement living at Delmanor Wynford, or to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Pam Palmer, Marketing and Community Relations Manager 416-331-9797 or online at delmanor.com

Delmanor Elgin Mills Tour Beautiful St. Jacob's Country!

The picturesque village of St. Jacobs is well known for the year round Farmers Market as well as a population of approximately 4,000 Old Order Mennonites.

The weather certainly co-operated for the residents of Delmanor Elgin Mills who were thrilled about their upcoming tour of St. Jacobs and Elmira.

The seniors started their day with a hearty Mennonite breakfast at Marion's Country Cupboard.  The host at the restaurant was dressed in traditional Mennonite attire and served the wholesome meal family style.  Residents were given the opportunity to ask questions of the tour guide during their morning breakfast treat.

After observing Mennonite culture in St. Jacobs, the residents boarded the Delmanor Bus and headed over to Elmira.  Well known for its spring Maple Syrup Festival, Elmira is a lush farming community that celebrates the Mennonite way of life.  The seniors were taken back in time on their tour as they saw where citizens carried out their day to day lives both now and similarly in times gone by.

The stunning fall colours provided a gorgeous backdrop for pictures that were snapped in front of  buggies and the historic Kissing Bridge.

Residents posing in front of a Mennonite buggy

Everyone had a wonderful time on this relaxing tour.    Realizing and taking advantage of all that our local community has to offer made the day even more rewarding.

Despite the recent tragic fire that destroyed the main building at St. Jacobs Farmers Market, the community remains strong and very optimistic that they will rebuild.

If you would like to obtain more information about retirement living at Delmanor Elgin Mills, or if you would like to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Susan Applebaum, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (905) 770-7963 or online at delmanor.com

Delmanor Wynford's First Resident Art Show!

For some, art is a vocation, for others, art is a hobby. But regardless of a person’s motivation for creating artwork, there is one aspect of art which many residents at Delmanor Wynford can attest to: creating art has many therapeutic benefits. It has long been known that for people of every age, the act of creation is life-enhancing and nourishing for the spirit.

 

June displaying her vibrant colours in acrylic

George showcasing his talents with ink and Chinese Brush

 

Considering all the benefits of art and creativity, Delmanor Wynford hosted its first Resident Art Show that featured the works of fifteen residents. Each artist was encouraged to showcase their work in a large display that was exhibited to the residents and staff at Delmanor Wynford as well as the surrounding community. Mediums used for the pieces ranged from oil, acrylic, water colour, ink, and charcoal. Each artist displayed up to ten pieces for the show.

The evening prior to the Grand Opening, all artists showcasing pieces were invited to an Artist Wine & Cheese Party, that provided the artists with an opportunity to view and discuss each others work. The artists really enjoyed the evening getting to know each other and discussing the inspiration behind their work.

 

Madeleine showcasing her scenic masterpieces in oil

 

 

The Delmanor Wynford Resident Art Show officially began with a Grand Opening which was well attended by residents, staff, families, friends, and members of the community. It was clear that the artists at Delmanor Wynford were proud to showcase their work and they were overwhelmed by the support from other residents and community members.

 

Norma displaying her talent for detail with oil

 

 

Helen and her beautiful work with water colour

 

Overall, the Resident Art Show was a huge success and it was obvious that art and creativity are things that bring entire communities together.

 

If you would like to obtain more information about retirement living at Delmanor Wynford or to arrange a tour of the residence, please contact Monique Kuhn or Pam Palmer, Marketing & Community Relations Managers at (416) 331-9797 or online at delmanor.com