Interview with Chartwell Fountains of Mission Retirement Residence resident, Doreen Sidjack

My brother was in here when it first opened, and I was very impressed. There’s an ambience about this place when you step in, of friendship, of easiness. I think the size of the place is [to its] benefit. It’s a comfortable place and everyone is so friendly [and] welcoming. It's nicely turned out. The decorating is nice [with a] comfortable feeling to the whole place.

The actual physical move was overwhelming, but there was a great deal of help. Moving at this age is a big deal, so it was a little bit difficult… They were helpful and agreeable. [even though] we elders don't like change.

There's something provided every day that’s interesting, and attendance is not required, but it is encouraged. As time goes on, you become more involved, so it keeps you very busy, very content. 

[I felt at home] almost immediately. There’s just something about everybody: staff, residents, the cleaning staff, the dining room, the office staff. They use your name immediately and they know your name. It's just a wonderful welcoming place. So I felt comfortable. 

One of my first remarks was ‘I feel safe.’ I am prone to falling. I'd had some falls and worried, I think, about maybe not being found immediately. I came in and I thought I feel safe here.

I like socializing at mealtime. I look forward to that. It is a social event and [there’s good discussion, good friends, and the food is wonderful. That's what I really look forward to. Breakfast, in my mind, is an event.

I've never had a question about my decision. I would recommend it. I have encouraged people that are trying it out to come and join the very friendly group. I feel as if this is my own little secret in here. It has no feeling of institution. It is home. It's very welcoming [and] I'm completely won over.

I prefer the size of the Fountains, smaller in size, and maybe not quite so many amenities as some places, but it provides everything one needs at [the right price]. It's, I think, partly due to the small size. It's just perfect… I have never had a regret.