Three decades of care, a lifetime of comfort: An interview with the team behind Goderich Place

For over 30 years, Goderich Place has stood as a beacon of warmth, dignity, and exceptional care for seniors.

With more than 5,000 residents served over the decades, the retirement home has become more than just a residence. It’s a vibrant community where residents feel like family.

As Goderich Place celebrates the 10-year anniversary of our specialised dementia care wing, we sat down with the leadership team to identify what makes Goderich Place such a truly unique and trusted choice for retirement living.

Q: Goderich Place has a rich history in senior care. What has been your guiding mission over the past 30 years?

A: Our mission has always been simple – to provide a safe, nurturing and engaging environment where every resident feels at home. We provide our residents the support they need to continue to enjoy their passions, whether its still cooking in their units, gardening outside, or jumping into our Goderich Place van for a shopping trip. What’s guided us through the decades is the belief that retirement is not an ending, it’s a new chapter. It should be written with respect, purpose, compassion, and dignity. – Jenni Arthur, Assistant General Manager

Q: You offer customized service packages. Can you tell us more about how that works?

A: Absolutely. No two residents are alike – so why should their care be? When someone joins Goderich Place, we take the time to create a personalised care plan. That could include anything from daily living support, medication management, and mobility assistance to personal interests like gardening, painting, or cultural outings. Our team works closely with residents and families to adjust these plans as needs evolve. – Shannon Gardiner, Director of Care

Q: This year marks 10 years since your secure dementia care wing opened. What inspired this expansion?

A: We saw a growing need in the community for specialised dementia care, and we knew we could rise to the occasion. The secure wing was designed with the latest in dementia-friendly architecture, calming environments, and staff specially trained in memory care. Ten years later, it remains one of the most compassionate and innovative parts of Goderich Place. Celebrating this milestone reminds us how vital specialised dementia care is – and how many families we’ve been so privileged to support. – Shannon Gardiner, Director of Care

Q: What sets your dementia care wing apart from others?

A: Our approach is relationship-based. We don’t just manage dementia; we connect with the person behind it. That means meaningful activities specifically planned for each resident to support their interests, family-style dining, and routines that build comfort and meaning. Safety is paramount, but so is joy. We’ve had residents light up during music therapy, reconnect through memory boxes, or enjoy peaceful strolls in our secure garden. These moments matter, and they define our care. – Jen Puckett, Sales Manager

Q: What are residents and their families saying about Goderich Place?

A: The feedback we receive is humbling. Families often tell us they feel peace of mind knowing their loved one is not just care for but genuinely loved. Residents appreciate the independence we support, the friendships they form, and the respect they’ve given every day. It’s that trust that keep families referring others to us, many times across generations. – Jen Puckett, Sales Manager

Q: How do you view the role of activities in a retirement home environment?

A: A comprehensive activity program plays a vital role in promoting overall well-being and fostering a sense of purpose, both of which contribute to an enhanced quality of life. It offers opportunities for cognitive and physical enrichment, social connection, and the exploration of shared interests – ultimately creating a community where joy and meaningful engagement are shared by all. – Melanie Nurse, Activation Manager

Q: What’s next for Goderich Place as you look to the future?

A: We’re committed to staying at the forefront of senior care, through technology, training and community partnerships. We’re exploring wellness programs, digital engagement tools, and even expanding activities based on resident feedback. Our dedicated staff and management team provide outstanding daily care to our residents and are truly paralleled. We believe that the well-being of our team directly contributes to the happiness and comfort of our residents. Whether you’re seeking a place of comfort, specialised care for a loved one with dementia, or a vibrant community to call home. Goderich Place stands ready with open arms. Here, every day is built around compassion, choice, and connection, and the next 30 years look brighter than ever. – Jason Mercier, Vice President of Operations

Annette Gerdes is the General Manager at Goderich Place