Live Longer, Healthier and Happier at Tapestry

Residents of Tapestry live connected and engaged lives as members of vibrant, active aging communities for independent adults. Tapestry offers a range of wellness programming, from “mild to wild,” so residents can enjoy existing passions and pursue new opportunities that bring purpose, meaning and joy. © Courtesy of Tapestry

Live Longer, Healthier and Happier at Tapestry

B.C. active aging communities debunk the myth of the “frail senior”

There are many misperceptions about aging, but Brenda, a Tapestry resident, is quite happy to put them all aside by living life to the fullest every day.

Brenda and her husband moved into Tapestry in 2022. “We realized it was time to put down our tools and start to play,” says Brenda. Once the couple moved to Tapestry, Brenda says they experienced a profound change. “I walked in the door and a whole new life opened up to me.”

At Tapestry, Brenda pursues her passions and explores opportunities to enrich her life. On any given day, she attends a fitness class, followed by kayaking or a brisk walk to the local beach.

Brenda believes her new life at Tapestry is more active, less stressful and very invigorating. “I feel fitter. A person’s age should not be defined by a number, but how they are living and how they perceive themselves to be.”

Brenda’s perspective that living in a connected and supportive community like Tapestry can lead to better health outcomes is reflected in World Health Organization research. A recent report noted that an individual’s physical and social environment are among the key factors that can have a long-term positive effect on the aging process and help individuals enjoy a longer, more independent life.

Tapestry communities offer endless opportunities for residents to engage with life through a lens that prioritizes wellness across all dimensions, including physical, social, intellectual and emotional. Tapestry’s wellness focus debunks the myth of the “frail senior” and counters ageist perspectives that define a person’s capacity or capability by their age.

Research has also shown that inter-generational opportunities offer one of the best ways to create connections between people and, in doing so, address stereotypes that discriminate against older adults.

“Tapestry looks for community partnerships that bring generations together,” says Adena Waffle, Senior Vice President, Tapestry. “These collaborations build a strong sense of connection, create shared experiences and lead to powerful learning opportunities that enhance mutual understanding and dispel misconceptions.”

At every Tapestry community, partnerships exist with local schools, bringing residents and students together to enjoy the beauty of music, art, cooking and sport.

Fundraising collaborations led by Tapestry’s residents have achieved spectacular results, bringing together people of all ages to realize shared goals.

Tapestry’s Victoria community blasted through its $20,000 fundraising goal for the new BC Cancer – Victoria Integrated Care and Research Pavilion. Other philanthropic efforts have benefited displaced Ukrainian nationals through the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria, Victoria Hospice, ElderDog Canada and the Parkinson Society BC, among many others.

Another Tapestry ambassador, Don, best reflects the perspective that life is richer and more meaningful when lived in a connected community focused on building bridges to create rich experiences that foster understanding, inclusivity, and a shared sense of optimism.

“I always believe that if you stay active, you’ll be healthy,” said Don, who loved sharing his passion for lawn bowling. Don believed moving into Tapestry was one of the best decisions he ever made, and he was always proud to be an articulate and strident supporter of Tapestry’s unique brand of senior living. “Everyone gets older,” as Don so frequently said, “but you don’t have to get old.”

To learn more about active living in a connected and vibrant Tapestry seniors’ community, visit DiscoverTapestry.com