In lives full of defining moments, we help create even more.

Whether it’s a brief encounter or a life changing event, these unique moments enrich lives. And we do everything we can to make them happen.

To give you an idea of how we can make a difference, here are Remarkable Moments from our home.

Our Defining Moments

Alpaca farm brings joy to Extendicare London residents

Extendicare London residents recently visited the Timbuktu Alpaca Farm for some animal therapy.

Extendicare London residents recently visited the Timbuktu Alpaca Farm for some animal therapy.

Alpacas’ calm and quiet demeanour helps visitors quickly become at ease. Residents interacted with the curious and gentle creatures and were also greeted by horses and cows.

It was a special moment for Jennifer, Clinical Education Manager at Extendicare, who attended the field trip along with her Uncle Wayne and Aunt Florence, both residents at Extendicare London.

As a fourth-generation farmer, Wayne was able to get back to his roots on this fun visit. “You can take the farmer off the farm,” said Jennifer, “But you can’t take the farm out of the farmer!”

Resident at Extendicare London Gives Back

A 99 years old resident at Extendicare London gives back by creating beautiful paintings.

One day, Dick was sitting visiting with his family near Reception and a lady approached him and thanked him for painting a picture of her dog. I asked “You paint?” and his daughter answered for him and said “Yes!”. She asked me if I have a pet that he could paint as it keeps him occupied. I brought in a picture of my English Springer Spaniel, Molly, and two weeks later Dick presented me with a beautiful painting of her. For a man that’s nearly 99 years young, I think he has a great talent.

Dick originates from Newcastle Upon Tyne in England, the same place as me so when he sits with his family in the lounge area, it’s like listening to a long lost relative. We always chat about the English T.V. show, “Coronation Street” and Dick tells me things that are happening before I even watch as I always PVR the show.

Gloria McKenzie, Receptionist at Extendicare London

Mr. R's Netherlands Adventure

Mr. R. was in his early 90’s when one day he said to our Social Worker that he had one wish before he died.

Mr. R. was in his early 90’s when one day he said to our Social Worker that he had one wish before he died. When our Social Worker asked what that was, he told her that he wanted the Marine Corp in Netherlands to know that he had fought on the Naas Bridge in Holland and that he was still alive. So together he and our Social Worker wrote a letter to the Marine Corp in the Netherlands telling them just that. Within days he received a call from the Marine Corp thanking him for his letter and that they would be honoured if he would come to the Netherlands. The Marine Corp sent a representative to our home and, together with his family and a full-time nurse, Mr. R. was taken back to the Netherlands on a one week all expenses paid visit to his homeland. While there, he was treated like a hero and he met the King and Queen who thanked him for his service. Mr. R. was perhaps the happiest he has ever been and he was so grateful that we listened and helped him realize his wish.

Music Therapy Transformation

Mr. A., in his mid 80’s, came to us with dementia, depressed and in poor health.

Mr. A., in his mid 80’s, came to us with dementia, depressed and in poor health. He was reclusive, did not want to be here and was angry that he had lost his independence. We learned from the family that he was a very creative person and was both a skilled pianist and wonderful artist. Sadly, since living with us he had exhibited absolutely no interest in either music or art. We were able to connect Mr. A. with a volunteer who had a musical background and after a while he slowly began to change and his interest re-emerged. He would bring his music and the two of them would sit at the piano in our common area while he played. Now he is there every week playing beautiful pieces for other residents, family member and guests. He even started to take a once-a-month art class to reconnect with his passion for art. Mr. A. transformed himself into the proud, happy and socially engaging man he had always been.