In most retirement communities, the programming calendar is a central hub of information - a vital tool residents use to plan their days.

Perhaps a common experience among those living in an older adult community: on the first day of each month, residents eagerly await the release of the programming calendar.

Is there something that sets United’s programming apart?

At first glance, you’ll notice what might seem like typical offerings: fitness classes, workshops, shopping trips, movie nights in the theatre. By all traditional metrics, United’s programming calendar would tick all the boxes if it were left as-is. There’s a variety of things to do and to look forward to every day of the week. Check, check, and check.

But, for many older adults looking to transition to a seniors’ community, there is a fear that once they enter, they will become disconnected from their greater community—unable to gain access to activities they once enjoyed, or even missing out on experiences they never had a chance to experience pre-retirement: a trip to the theatre, a live musical performance, or even a stroll along the paths of the zoo.

The local insider
“When cultivating a living experience unique to United, we wanted to ensure residents could maintain and even expand their access to the community at large: opportunities for lifelong learning, supporting the arts, visiting local attractions and popular venues,” says Carolyn Smith, Active Living Advisor at United, “The advantage of being locally owned and operated means we can forge really in-depth partnerships with local organizations, and in turn, residents experience everything our city has to offer.”

“Sometimes we lose sight of the fact there’s world-class attractions right here in Calgary,” says Arianne Brady, Vice President Marketing & Communications at United, “When we establish partnerships with local organizations, resident experience is at the forefront. Each community partner offers a unique experience for the residents. Our partnerships with Mount Royal University and St. Mary’s University provides opportunities for lifelong learning and intergenerational connection,” Arianne continues, “and partnerships with the performing arts community has brought us exclusive in-house performances, behind-the-scenes access to theatre productions, great deals on tickets for residents, and even private guided tours of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo! Thanks to these partnerships, residents can be tourists in their own city.”

Adventure awaits

And who doesn’t love to play the tourist? Beyond the bright lights and applause, there’s more to the partnerships than a space on the calendar. In fact, seniors who pursue hobbies such as participating in the arts, or have access to lifelong learning opportunities often see health benefits, such as improved mental health and cognitive function, as well as a higher self-esteem. Living in a community like United means residents have an array of enriching experience steps from their front door. They can participate simply by showing up. Added benefits? Partnerships often remove barriers some older adults may face such as purchasing tickets or arranging transportation.

"We had so much fun at the zoo," says Dorothy, a resident at Fish Creek, "And, it's so wonderful that we have the opportunity to see amazing performances, right here at home—there's always something to be excited about."

“We see residents inspired by the experiences provided by the partnerships: whether it’s joining the resident choir, through creating and displaying their artwork, and their overall enthusiasm and genuine appreciation for the performers who take time to share their talents,” says Carolyn. “It’s a lot of fun, but it’s also very meaningful—it’s so much more than entertainment. We support our local organizations, who give us so much in return.”

Thinking about taking the ‘grand tour’? Check out what’s on—and chart your course for United!

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