Ideally situated in Bradford, Ontario, Holland Gardens Retirement Residence redefines what senior living can be. With a luxurious, resort-inspired lifestyle, this vibrant community offers much more than just a place to live. From independent living to assisted living and memory care, Holland Gardens provides a seamless continuum of care tailored to meet your needs as they evolve, so you can truly age in place.
The amenities are second to none—chef-prepared meals crafted from fresh, local ingredients; fitness and wellness facilities; and engaging activities that nurture the mind, body, and soul. The community thrives on inclusivity and connection, with everything from fitness classes and cultural excursions to live entertainment and resident-driven programs that ensure every day is fulfilling. All of this is set against the picturesque backdrop of Bradford, where local parks, specialty shops, and natural beauty await just steps from your door.
One couple that resides at Holland Gardens, David and Heather Butters, are happy to share their experience.
The Butters started thinking about moving long before the pandemic and started to look at places online and speak with intake coordinators over the phone. Holland Gardens was one of the places they contacted.
“We actually corresponded with Melissa McKee, Community Relations Manager, for a few years,” shares Heather. “Then, after the pandemic, we made the trip to Bradford to visit our son. Since we were in the area, we made an unscheduled stop at Holland Gardens. We asked reception if Melissa was available, but she was not.”
In a twist of fate, however, Melissa was just leaving her office. David and Heather recognized her from the name on her office door and introduced themselves.
“She hugged us and said, ‘I do have a meeting, but we can do a quick tour!’ We didn’t have an appointment, so we really thought her kindness was wonderful.”
David recalls how impressed they were with the residence and the people living there.
“As we walked around, several people spoke to us and asked if we were going to move in. It was great! After that, we didn’t consider any other places.”
The Butters have been at Holland Gardens for just over a year.
“We have nothing to complain about! We are really pleased with the whole setup!” says Heather. “Our two-bedroom unit has space for a fair amount of furniture from our previous condo. It’s actually similar in size.”
“We like the food,” David adds, “and the residents. We have made so many friends.”
The couple also enjoys the friendly staff and the walking proximity to shopping, healthcare, coffee shops, and green spaces.
“People need to think about that walkability to amenities when choosing a location,” Heather says, noting many seniors chose to stop driving when they make the move.
As for the activities, both laugh that they are far busier than anticipated.
David says, “We came here to be closer to family, but we saw them more when we lived in Oakville! We are just so busy! Singing, regular game nights, card games, and so much more.”
Heather adds, “Every Sunday there is a social tea and it includes everyone; the gentlemen residents and outside guests. There is also an excellent arts and crafts program that I really enjoy.”
The couple enjoys the well-stocked library and the group shopping and restaurant excursions that occur several times a month.
When asked what they would tell other seniors considering the move to a residence, they both are happy to share their thoughts.
“Think in a positive manner. This is just another stage in a life that is full of changes. Yes, you consider the money, but the money is spent to enjoy a wonderful lifestyle. There is nothing here that makes life uncomfortable. It is like being on vacation all the time. Don’t worry about what you are ‘leaving behind.’ Embrace the experience and look around at where you are! There are people here that are over 100 years old and they are happy, cognitive, and active. It’s just so stimulating to be in a community like this.”
Holland Gardens strives for – and achieves – an outstanding level of care, respect, and community that is second to none. To learn more, visit Holland Gardens online. The community is part of the Verve Senior Living Family, which is also active on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.