As a young model for Eaton’s catalogues, Claire Gourley always looked
like a million bucks. She still does. Coiffed, stylishly dressed and with
impeccable social graces, she’s so elegant and graceful that initially you
might not notice two things about her. First, she was born without a right
hand. Second, she’s in the middle stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Claire, 82, lives in the Reminiscence neighbourhood of Thorne Mill
on Steeles in Thornhill, Ontario. All residents in that secure 30-suite
section of the seniors’ building have Alzheimer’s or another memory
impairment. Claire doesn’t remember where she went to school (she was
the youngest person to be admitted to the University of Toronto, at age
14), what career she had (she was a social worker
with the Children’s Aid Society), or particulars of her
family life (she’s a widow with three sons), but she
can recount in great detail the first time her parents
put her in a ballet class to help boost her selfesteem.
“The other girls said, ‘What’s wrong with
your hand?’” Claire recalls. “I went home and cried.
But soon the teachers were asking me if I would
help teach the younger children. It was wonderful!”
Claire Gourley at Sunrise's Thorne Mill on Steeles
Andrew Stawicki
Claire’s years of modelling and dance recitals set
the stage for a lifelong appreciation of fitness—
especially good posture. “I hate to see people like
this,” she says, demonstrating by slumping in her
chair. With infectious enthusiasm, she often tries
to gently motivate other residents to sit up straight
or take part in activities. “Some of them don’t
like it, though,” she says, laughing, “so I have to
be careful!” Limber and supple, she excels at Wii
bowling, mimics the steps on TV’s “Dancing With
The Stars,” and does full leg extensions during the
group exercise classes.
Although Claire is a whiz at word games, she
increasingly has to search for words to express
herself and requires reminders to go to meals and
activities. As her needs increase, so will the level of
care, as the facility can accommodate a wide range
of needs, from independent living to hospice care.
And Claire’s loved ones appreciate not only the
luxurious surroundings and stimulating programs
available to her, but the support offered to families,
including information sessions and speakers
brought in by the Alzheimer Society of Canada and monthly support groups.
Featured Articles
