“Wow.”

It’s not usually an adjective that one would expect to hear for a first impression of a seniors’ community. But, at Fish Creek, it’s a common sentiment for those who walk through the doors for the first time.

The Fish Creek community has the energy of a lively neighbourhood hub. The modern, bright spaces and inviting atmosphere lend themselves to social interactions.

As you step inside, you’re immediately welcomed by a bright, bustling scene of residents gathered in the front lobby, as the bus arrives for an outing.  Others are gathered in the bistro, lingering over a cup of coffee and a freshly-baked treat. The large windows reveal views of the central courtyard and draw sunlight into the dining room and lounge — where residents are busy working on puzzles and reading, pausing to say hello to their friends who stop by enroute to a fitness class or workshop in the art studio.

The campus consists of two distinct communities: Fish Creek West, tailored for independent living with full kitchens, and Fish Creek North, which offers assisted living and memory care options. Both buildings surround the enclosed central courtyard, and share the extensive amenities of the community including a dining room, theatre, art studio, lounge, and more. Residents from the North and West interact and mingle together in workshops, classes, events, meals, and all other aspects of life at United.

“The community is so vibrant — residents here are very social and active,” says Carolyn Smith, Sales Advisor at Fish Creek. “It’s very easy for people to connect and make friends — there’s always something to do, and there’s always someone who will join you — the programming is second to none. There’s an incredible calibre of entertainment in the theatre, regular outings, and a variety of workshops happening every day.”

"The art studio is definitely a gathering space in the community,” says Chantel, professional artist and Creative Facilitator at United, “There’s always something going on here, whether it’s a workshop, residents working on their own projects, or even just to socialize — the studio welcomes everyone. Lots of residents had never pursued art before coming here, but now they are here every day. They even bring their loved ones in to spend time together.” Indeed, residents and visitors alike enjoy the art studio creations with a visit to its adjacent gallery, displaying an incredible array or talent and artistic expression from the community’s residents.

You’ll often see residents moving with a little ‘pep in their step’ walking around the courtyard pathways, or heading out to nearby Fish Creek Provincial Park for an afternoon stroll. Tracy Roberts, registered kinesiologist at Fish Creek, leads the popular morning fitness classes — as well as one-on-one sessions that take place in the fitness studio, and in the resident’s suites. “We have something for everyone,” Tracy says, “Our classes range from yoga to balance work, and everything in between. Residents have an opportunity to socialize in the classes and it encourages them to participate.” Tracy adds, “The convenience of having one-on-one sessions right here in the community has been a major contributing factor to residents achieving their wellness goals and maintaining their mobility.”

Amy McDonough, Executive Director at Fish Creek sees first-hand the impact of the integrated model benefits has for residents living with dementia or other forms of cognitive decline. “Regardless of where they’re at in their journey, all the residents benefit from the social and active aspects of living in our community. Daily interactions take away a lot of the stigma and fear of aging, and contribute to the overall wellness of residents. The connection and the meaningful relationships they make with each other makes a significant difference in their quality of life — there’s no fear of being separated from their spouses or friends as their needs change.” Amy continues, “The vibrancy of the community is a direct result of the residents’ camaraderie with each other and the team.”

Fish Creek resident Darlene McCulloch loves staying active and involved. “There’s always something going on — I try to make it to a fitness class once or twice a week, and if there’s a special art project, I’m there,” she shares. One of her favourite weekly rituals? A Saturday line-dancing class she not only attends but often leads. “We call ourselves The Missteps, and it’s a pretty accurate name!” she laughs.

Like many residents, Darlene cherishes opportunities to include her family in community life. “If there’s a fun workshop in the art studio, I can invite my granddaughter or daughter-in-law to join me. And sometimes I’ll book a table in the dining room so we can all have dinner together. It’s such a lovely treat for them — and for me, too.” Darlene continues, “The best part of life here is the sense of belonging. We’re one big family. The people here are so thoughtful and caring. It’s a respectful, safe place — it’s my home.”

Read more about what Darlene had to say in a recent article in the Calgary Herald here.

It’s no surprise that first-time visitors often do a double-take when they visit Fish Creek by United Active Living — life here is senior living reimagined. Stop by to see how life at Fish Creek can redefine your experience of aging!