A sense of sadness used to surround Dorothy.

Dorothy, now widowed, had three sons.

But thanks to a resident-centred program implemented at Country Village Homes in Woodslee, Dorothy was able to fulfill her long-standing dream of reconnecting with her remaining son.

Dorothy is known by the staff for never asking for anything. When assistance is offered, even in just transporting her down the hall in her wheelchair, she declines, saying, “You have enough to do.” When asked what can be done to help improve her day, she says,” Nothing; I am just an old lady.”

Her oldest son passed away several years ago.  Her youngest son passed away at home right in front of her last year. Dorothy’s remaining son is often on her mind.  When this son is mentioned, her eyes water up and she says that she does not get to see him very much.

Dorothy has told staff that she used to love to go for car rides. “I would drive all over the place,” she said. “I have never been a passenger, but I would really like that; somewhere by the water but I am too old.”

When staff asked her about her perfect day, she indicated a drive and lunch by the water, with a burger and a Coke. “I love burgers, but those days are gone,” she said. “I used to love to do that.”

Two days later, the staff at Country Village fussed over Dorothy, getting her hair done and makeup applied. Once Dorothy was ready, Country Village – Woodslee Executive Director Lenna Rombout took Dorothy on a trip to the Leamington Waterfront, where both enjoyed burgers and a Coke for lunch.

But dessert was a special surprise. Lenna arranged for Dorothy’s son to visit them at the waterfront.   Dorothy was thrilled to see him. As a bonus, Dorothy’s granddaughter and great grandson also came.

Dorothy reminds us that not every Dream needs to be expansive or elaborate.  A return to the simple pleasures such as a little extra special attention, a simple meal that we take for granted, and time with family are often at the core is what makes the dreams closest to our heart come true.

Operated by Southbridge Care Homes, Country Village Homes – Woodslee implemented Bridge to Dreams, a resident-centered initiative developed by Southbridge Care Homes in partnership with the home.

“The Bridge to Dreams program is a purposeful way for us to honour our residents in meaningful ways, and together with the direct support of staff, we were able to do just that,” remarked Keith McIntosh, Chief Executive Officer of Southbridge Care Homes.

Country Village Homes – Woodslee is home to 104 residents in Woodslee, Ontario.

Southbridge Care Homes
Creating Caring Environments for seniors is a remarkable responsibility that Southbridge Care Homes takes seriously. Managing more than 30 long-term care homes, retirement and independent living communities across Ontario, we strive to ensure our residents feel connected, supported, loved and cared for.

Contact Information
Patrick Moore
Director of Communications, Marketing, Stakeholder & Government Relations
766 Hespeler Road, Suite 201
Cambridge, ON N3H 5L8
P: (519) 621-8886, x. 201
M: (647) 539-3953
F: (519) 621-8144
pmoore@southbridgecare.com
www.southbridgecarehomes.com