Silvera

REMEMBERING HELEN | Silvera residents and employees joined their Bridgeland neighbours recently to spend an afternoon waving, dancing, smiling, and sharing kindness in honour of the late Helen Jusic, whose last place of residence was Silvera's Aspen Commons.

The event was organized by Bridgeland resident Fiona McKenzie, who said she felt supported by Helen while driving her sons to school during the pandemic, when Helen would stand and wave at her neighbours each day. Inspired by the joy and kindness Helen brought to others, Fiona brought the community together at “Helen’s corner” to spread smiles, love, and connection in Helen’s memory.

Participants shared stories about Helen while passing cars honked and shouted, “For Helen!” as they drove by.

Thanks to everyone who created the posters sharing heartfelt messages in Helen’s honour, carrying forward her legacy of joy and support.

May we all continue to spread joy like Helen!

FATHER'S DAY | To all of the fathers, granddads, uncles, and father figures in our lives - Happy Father's Day!

Silvera's communities honoured their men this week with Father's Day celebrations. Gilchrist held a dance party with live karaoke by resident Ed, along with a "How Well Do You Know Your Beer?" tasting event and trivia, jokes and prizes. Westview residents enjoyed admiring some classic cars as well as a stunning grey Lotus, sipping delicious floats, and entering the raffle draw.

Here's to all the dads, and thanks to those who help us celebrate the great men who call Silvera home!

INTER-COMMUNITY CRIB | Aspen Commons recently welcomed residents from Bow Valley, Shawnessy, Spruce, and Westview for some fierce competition, friendly rivalry, and fun during an inter-community crib tournament.

Two-member team winners received gift certificates, and special prizes were awarded to the players who were "skunked" the worst!

Intercommunity events give residents the opportunity to challenge their skills, make new friends, and reconnect with people they might not have a chance to see more regularly. We love when residents and employees kindle relationships across Silvera!

50th ANNIVERSARY | This is a big day for Silvera's Beaverdam Commons! It was on this day in 1976 that the Honourable William Yurko, then Alberta's Housing and Public Works Minister, opened what was initially called Beaver Dam Lodge. Beaverdam Commons is now a warm and intimate 59-suite community offering early to mid-stage memory care supports for seniors under the guidance of Community Manager Tim Bowen. Congratulations to the incomparable Beaverdam team, which one family member recently described as "real-life angels."

SHADOW BOXES | Westview Town Suites residents recently spent a lovely afternoon creating spring shadow boxes. Each individual designed their own box using seasonal themed items, reflecting their own unique personal style while capturing the beauty of the season.

It was a relaxing and engaging way to connect, create, and celebrate spring together! 🌷

SENIORS' WEEK: Silvera CEO Kyle Fawcett had the privilege today of getting together in Edmonton with Nathan Neudorf, Alberta's new Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. Kyle used his time with Minister Neudorf to talk about some of the issues facing seniors, including affordable housing and the cost of living. At the same time, Kyle presented Minister Neudorf with a blue-ribbon pin in celebration of Seniors' Week, which runs until June 7, 2026.

SENIORS' WEEK | Today was unforgettable for about 100 Silvera residents who gathered at the TELUS Spark Science Centre for the Silvera Scholars Conference 2026, a celebration of life, wisdom and community. One highlight was a speech by Mayor Jeromy Farkas, who said Seniors' Week is not only an opportunity to recognize the contributions of seniors in the past, but also a celebration of "that hunger, that curiosity, and that zest for life" of the seniors gathered in the room. Silvera is grateful to all the fabulous volunteers, speakers and sponsors who made today possible, including Suncor. Seniors’ Week in Alberta runs from June 1 to 7, 2026.

PUP CRAWL | Volunteers from CNIB strolled past Silvera's Aspen, Spruce and Bow Valley Commons communities during their "Pup Crawl" walk on Friday. Pups included CNIB Guide Dogs in Training - puppies ranging from four to eight months, plus some older Certified Guide Dogs. Residents enjoyed the parade of dogs but especially loved when some of them returned for visits and ear scratches! Residents also made fleece dog toys that they shared with the participating pooches.

PIPPIN | Beaverdam Commons residents enjoyed a recent visit from Pippin, a miniature goat who stopped by as part of the pet therapy program. Residents loved meeting this little ray of sunshine.

Pet therapy can be especially meaningful for residents living with memory loss. Animals can spark positive emotions, reduce anxiety, encourage social interaction, and help evoke memories through touch and sensory experience. These simple, calming moments can create comfort and connection when words may be harder to find.

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful volunteer, Willow, for making this experience possible.

OPEN HOUSE | At the Westview Town Suites annual open house earlier this month, guests and residents enjoyed entertainment by High Mileage during happy hour, a visit from our best furry friend, Honey, through the St. John Ambulance pet therapy program, hors d'oeuvres by Silvera’s dining team as well as cotton candy and popcorn!

The Calgary Horticultural Society joined us for a mini flower arranging class where visitors and residents made spring posies, music specialist Evan shared about deep listening and music theory programs coming up at Westview, and Silvera employees provided suite tours. A variety of vendor health partners also attended, providing information about supports available at Westview. Door prize draw winners received gift baskets, brunch tickets, gift cards and a complimentary massage!

If you’re interested in learning more about making your home at Westview Town Suites, visit mywestview.ca.