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Independent, Not Invisible: Embracing Autonomy in Calgary’s 55+ Communities

The experience of aging is changing. Across Canada and right here in Calgary, older adults are choosing to embrace a new stage of life—one defined by freedom, connection, and personal agency, not decline. And the communities that serve them are evolving too.

Today’s seniors aren’t fading into the background. They’re active, engaged, and full of stories yet to be told. They’re looking for places where they’re not just accommodated, but respected—where they’re seen, heard, and supported in living life their way. For many, that place is found in forward-thinking 55+ communities like Wellings of Calgary, where autonomy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of everything.

Why Autonomy Matters in Aging

One of the most important factors in aging well is the ability to continue making choices—whether it’s choosing how to spend your time, what passions to pursue, or how to participate in your community. This sense of independence supports confidence, purpose, and dignity. It reinforces that life doesn’t shrink with age—it expands in new and meaningful ways.

Too often, older adults are quietly nudged into passive roles by loved ones or institutions. Decisions get made on their behalf. Risk and adventure are discouraged. But a life fully lived involves freedom and personal direction, no matter your age.

This understanding is core to the philosophy of Wellings communities.

“We See People Transform”: Natalie Tommy on Life at Wellings

Natalie Tommy, Vice President of the Nautical Lands Group (parent company of Wellings), has witnessed firsthand what happens when older adults are encouraged to reclaim choice and community.

“We see people transform before our eyes as they regain the confidence to speak their minds, share life experiences and leave the chores and daily to-do list behind,” says Tommy. “It’s not just about comfort—it’s about thriving.”
Natalie Tommy, VP of Marketing, Wellings Communities (Seniors Lifestyle Magazine)

The Wellings approach places residents in control of their daily life. Whether that means joining a yoga class, hosting friends for dinner, exploring the community, or simply enjoying quiet moments in their suite, the choice is always theirs.

“This Is Where We Thrive”: Kathie Donovan on Belonging

Kathie Donovan, long-time broadcaster and Wellings Lifestyle Ambassador, adds another powerful voice to the conversation on senior empowerment. In her blogs on the Wellings website, she often explores what it means to age with joy, community, and purpose.

“At Wellings, we discuss the profound impact of community and the comforting sense of belonging that comes when we discover others who share our interests and values,” writes Donovan. “This is where we thrive.”
Kathie Donovan, Happiness Expert, Ambassador Wellings Communities (MyWellings.com)

Her reflections go beyond daily programming. They speak to a deeper human need—to feel seen and included, to be given space to continue learning, connecting, and growing. For many seniors, that sense of community connection and personal relevance has a life-changing effect.

Empowerment Through Choice and Involvement

What sets communities like Wellings apart is their commitment to resident-led living. Members aren’t just participants—they’re active contributors. From resident councils to peer-organized events and volunteer opportunities, seniors shape the tone and culture of their community.

This structure supports real independence while offering just the right amount of assistance when needed. Concierge services, maintenance-free living, and flexible amenities mean that residents don’t have to give up comfort to stay active and involved.

Residents like Gisela Malik from Wellings of Corunna describe the environment as “the greatest place” and say the team treats them “like family.” Others, like Nancy O’Neill, describe Wellings as feeling like a resort:

“It is like a cruise ship. We feel like we’re on holiday.” (Countylive.ca)

These testimonials reflect what autonomy really looks like in action: comfort, safety, and joy—on your terms.

Aging with Confidence, Not Compromise

As we continue to reimagine aging, communities like Wellings are setting a new standard—one where independence is preserved, voices are valued, and joy is prioritized. This model reminds us that autonomy isn’t something that should fade with age. On the contrary, it’s the very thing that allows us to flourish.

Because seniors are not invisible. They are mentors, neighbours, leaders, and storytellers. And when given the space to choose their own paths, they show us just how much life there is to live—at every stage.

Let Them Lead—with Respect and Support

So the next time you feel the urge to take the reins or make a decision for a beloved senior in your life, pause. Think again. Instead of assuming what’s best, take a moment to ask them what they want. How can you support their vision for this stage of life? What would it look like to help them get where they want to go—on their terms? Whether it’s driving them to an event, learning new tech together, or simply encouraging them to try something new, the key is in asking, not directing. Always seek permission before assisting. When seniors feel in control of their lives, even in small ways, it builds confidence, preserves dignity, and sets the tone for aging with pride—not passivity.

Because independence doesn’t end with age—it deepens. And when we respect that, we help the people we love live fully, freely, and joyfully.

Aging Well in Calgary: How Local 55+ Centres Help You Stay Active, Social, and Engaged

Aging is a journey—and in Calgary, it can be a vibrant, connected, and fulfilling one. Whether you’re newly retired or well into your golden years, staying active and socially engaged is key to aging well. That’s where Calgary’s local 55+ centres come in.

These community hubs offer so much more than coffee and cards. They are welcoming spaces where older adults can connect, move, learn, volunteer, and thrive—at any stage of retirement.

Staying Active in Mind and Body

Research continues to show that regular physical activity helps seniors maintain independence, reduce the risk of chronic illness, and improve mental health. Calgary’s 55+ centres offer a range of accessible fitness programs tailored for older adults—everything from gentle yoga and walking groups to Zumba Gold and strength-building classes.

You don’t need to be an athlete to participate. These programs are designed to be fun, social, and supportive, regardless of your fitness level. Even light movement a few times a week can make a big difference in how you feel.

Social Connection Is Vital

Social isolation can be one of the biggest challenges in retirement, especially for those who live alone. At a 55+ centre, connection is built right into the calendar. Weekly luncheons, drop-in games, coffee mornings, special interest clubs, and seasonal events make it easy to meet new people and strengthen friendships.

Whether you’re into bridge, book clubs, painting, or ping pong, you’ll find a group that fits—and if you don’t, you can help start one.

Keep Learning, Keep Growing

Retirement is also a time for exploration. Want to learn how to use your smartphone, speak Spanish, write your memoir, or explore photography? Most centres offer lifelong learning programs that make it easy to keep your mind sharp and your curiosity active.

Workshops often bring in guest speakers, local authors, tech coaches, and health professionals to share insights relevant to senior living.

Give Back and Get Involved

One of the most rewarding ways to stay engaged is to volunteer. Many Calgary 55+ centres run with the help of dedicated volunteers—older adults supporting their peers in running events, facilitating programs, or simply offering a welcoming hello at the front desk.

Volunteering not only builds community, it supports purpose and wellbeing.

Find Your Centre in Calgary

There are dozens of 55+ and senior centres across Calgary, including The Kerby Centre, Confederation Park 55+, Ogden House, Good Companions 50 Plus, Parkdale Nifty 50’s, Bow cliff Seniors and many more. Each has its own character, programs, and sense of community—but they all share the same goal: helping older adults age with dignity, purpose, and joy.

Ready to Get Involved?

If you’re ready to stay active, meet great people, and enjoy everything Calgary has to offer, your local 55+ centre is the perfect place to start.

Because aging well doesn’t mean slowing down—it means living life your way, surrounded by people who lift you up.

Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future: How Seniors Shape Our World

In a fast-paced world that often overlooks the quiet strength of experience, older adults continue to be pillars of wisdom, resilience, and culture. Their decisions have shaped our communities, their traditions are woven into our collective identity, and their stories offer guidance for the path ahead.

At Wellings of Calgary, we believe aging is not about stepping back—it’s about stepping into a new chapter with confidence, connection, and curiosity. And part of that journey is finding your tribe.

The Need for Belonging Grows with Age

As technology evolves and societal change accelerates, many seniors are feeling left behind. In a world that is continually accelerating its pace, it’s difficult for anyone to keep up- now imagine living in it and not growing up with the technological advances. From banking, to reading, to using an elevator, it’s always something new. This disconnection and feeling you can’t cope or live your life independently,  can lead to anxiety, loneliness, and even depression.  What many are truly looking for isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to feel seen, heard, and valued.

That’s why finding your people—your tribe—is essential. It’s about having coffee with a neighbour who gets you. It’s about participating in programs that honour your pace and passions. It’s about feeling at home with people who understand where you are at, and how you have lived your life up to now. 

Community, Connection & Carefreedom Living®

At Wellings of Calgary, we offer a vibrant 55+ community designed to meet older adults where they are. Whether you’re eager to enjoy a fitness class, share stories over dinner, or simply enjoy the freedom of maintenance-free living, you’ll find opportunities for growth, friendship, and fulfillment at the pace you want to live your life at. 

We call it Carefreedom Living®—because we believe the best years are still ahead when you have the freedom to live your way, in a community that supports your goals and journey.

Celebrating Seniors in Canada

Canada formally recognizes the contributions of older adults and reminds us to take the time to honour our senior family, friends and neighbours for the month of June. 

June is Seniors Month:
Although more localized, Seniors Month serves as an inspiring reminder of how older adults have helped build strong, compassionate communities. The 2025 theme varies across the provinces, but all underscores the importance of continuing to support older adults in meaningful ways. Seniors week is taking place in Calgary from June 2-8th, and this year’s theme is Explore, Engage, and Boldly Embrace Aging in Calgary. We hope you will visit their website to discover what’s planned.
[Visit Website]

Join a Community That Celebrates You

At Wellings of Calgary, we celebrate our members every day. Whether it’s through social gatherings, wellness programming, or simple moments of shared joy, we honour the power of experience and the value of belonging.

You’ve spent your life building a legacy. Now it’s time to find the place that helps you live it fully and inspires you to share your journey, knowledge and wisdom with others. 

Ready to discover Wellings and find your tribe?
[Schedule a tour at Wellings of Calgary today.]

Finding Your New Tribe: The Power of Social Circles at Wellings of Calgary

What do you want your days to feel like?

It’s a powerful question—and one that becomes especially important as you begin to think about what’s next. Maybe you’re not quite retired yet. Maybe you’ve recently left work. Maybe you’re simply ready to trade hustle for happiness.

At Wellings of Calgary, we believe this chapter of life is a launchpad—not a slowdown. It’s not about retiring from life. It’s about re-firing, giving yourself more options to live your life, and choosing to make decisions that lead you to fulfilling your next chapter goals. For some of us that’s leaving the workforce to pursue something different, something that’s always called you and something that offers you more freedom to move, more soulful fulfillment with no one to report to but yourself. For others, the work they do is a passion, does fill them up and for those people, we ask, why would you stop what you are doing? 

So how do you get to that headspace? How do you plan your day when the calendar isn’t filled with work meetings? How do you live a full life when the rules are finally yours to make?

You start with people.
You start with purpose.
You start with finding your new tribe.

Re-Evaluating Your Priorities

Many people entering the 55+ stage of life find themselves asking:
“What do I want this next chapter to look like?”

That’s not always an easy question. From the very beginning we have watched our parents give of themselves to us and place our needs before their own. There are many reasons why most of us have a difficult time changing this way of living, but in order to lead a more fulfilling life in the next chapter we need to choose to put ourselves, and our needs first. This next chapter is defined by self acceptance for what is, and doing the work necessary to figure out what you need to live your best life and thrive as we age.  For years, we’ve been defined by jobs, families, calendars, and commitments. But when things start to shift—when you have more time, more freedom, and maybe fewer built-in routines—that’s when it becomes essential to get intentional.

Now’s the time to ask:

  • What lights me up?
  • Who do I want to spend time with?
  • What do I want my days to feel like?

Wellings of Calgary isn’t here to hand you a schedule—we’re here to create space for you to explore, to connect, and to design a lifestyle that feels true to you.

The Importance of Social Circles

Here’s what we know: people who stay socially engaged live longer, happier, more fulfilling lives. It’s backed by science, and it’s something we see in our community every day.

At Wellings, connection is built into our culture—organically and authentically. Whether it’s:

  • Joining a book club
  • Attending a seminar or workshop
  • Participating in our community-led activities
  • Sharing meals, walking the trails, or striking up a spontaneous conversation

Every moment is a chance to meet someone new, try something different, and grow your circle.

And here’s what makes Wellings of Calgary truly different:

  • We believe in connecting with people before they’re retired.
  • We’ve created a community that supports you as you plan your next steps, not just after you’ve taken them.

It’s Not Retirement. It’s Re-Firement.

We call it Carefreedom Living—because it’s not about rules, restrictions, or rigid schedules. It’s about giving you the space, the tools, and the community to live your life, your way.

We’re proud to be a touchpoint for key 55+ groups in Calgary, offering events, talks, and opportunities to engage—whether you’re ready to move or just want to get to know us better.

Come by for a seminar.
Join us for a social.

Start building your new routine before you make a move.

Because that’s what makes this life work: connection, community, and confidence in your choices.

Ready to Find Your People?

If you’re looking for:

  • A way to re-evaluate your priorities
  • A welcoming, inspiring 55+ community in Calgary
  • A place to build your next chapter with meaning and connection

We’re here.

We’re not just a community you move into. We’re a community you grow with—before, during, and beyond retirement.

So what will you do with your time?

At Wellings of Calgary, we can’t wait to see what you’ll create.

Want to connect with us?

Let’s get started—together.

Celebrate the Flavours of the Season

Stay a while and enjoy the company with a glass — or two!

Stay long enough, and you might see the resident moose stroll by, as you sip on a crisp white wine or signature cocktail in the Sage Bistro. Nestled on the scenic Paskapoo Slopes—part of the 65 acres of parklands that include Canada Olympic Park, bike trails, and hiking trails—Wellings of Calgary offers more than an active living experience for adults 55 plus.

At Wellings of Calgary, we celebrate the ritual of breaking bread with friends, neighbours, and family, and believe that dining should be more than routine—it should be something you look forward to. Every single day.

It’s a difficult concept to grasp. We aren’t a retirement community, yet we live for seniors. We love their zest for life, their wisdom, authenticity, and the energy they bring when they are together is contagious. We are likened more to a hotel experience than anything else. From the moment you are greeted by the concierge to the great conversation you may have with a member, it’s unlike any 55 plus community experience you would have ever had, and it’s a pleasant and welcomed surprise for those who do decide to live with us.

One of the biggest surprises is how the food program works. There’s no fixed meal time, no assigned seating, and certainly no compromise on flavour. We invite you to dine when you want, with whom you want, and where you want. Start with a sunrise coffee and a warm, freshly baked croissant to go, or maybe you’d rather eat in the Sage Bistro and enjoy a classic breakfast and smoothie. The choice is yours.

Our all-day menus always favour our members and are adapted to the members’ tastes and favourites. Light snacks, simple lunches, interesting seasonal dishes, and pub favourites are all at your fingertips—brimming with flavour and served to you.

Uncompromising Flavour and Good Taste

The food choices and flavour profiles at Wellings of Calgary are designed to cater to a diverse range of tastes. Members receive monthly food and beverage credits, allowing them to dine when they want and choose from a varied menu that changes daily to take advantage of seasonal favourites and local offerings.

There’s Always Room For One More!

It’s all about the food, and it’s at the heart of many, many good times in the community. It makes us pause, savour, and enjoy what brings us together, sparks conversation, and gives every day a little extra joy.

Choose comfort! Whether you’re dressed in jeans or your Sunday best, there’s always a seat for you—and it always feels like home. No matter what you choose to wear, you will always be welcomed with a warm smile.

We’ve created a space where flavour meets choice. Our dining options are designed with flexibility in mind—breakfast at Sage Owl Bistro, lunch at Sly Fox Gastropub, or an afternoon cocktail on the garden terrace or in the podium games lounge. The Field and Flame Dining Room will be opening soon, bringing yet another set of choices.

There’s no need to plan your day around meal times. Want breakfast at 11? Lunch at 2? A dessert run at 9? You’re welcome to it!

A Taste of Wellings

Take a peek at one of our recent dinner menus:
Your choice of homemade soup or salad, and
• Pork schnitzel with German fried potatoes and green beans
• Spaghetti and meatballs with house-made garlic bread
• Potato-crusted cod with garlic mashed and seasonal vegetables
• Raspberry macaron or chocolate swirl cheesecake

From butter chicken with naan to bison meatloaf or Greek salmon with roasted squash, our menus rotate weekly with global inspiration and local ingredients.

It Feels Like Home. Only Better.

We designed Wellings of Calgary to be beautiful—but approachable. The architecture? Striking. The views? To die for. But the feeling you get when you walk through our doors is what matters most. It’s warm. It’s comfortable. It’s effortless. Like your favourite sweater—but with concierge service, modern conveniences, underground parking, a fitness centre, and of course—delicious food.

Our members often say they feel proud to host friends here. That’s exactly how we want you to feel—proud, relaxed, and surrounded by community.

A Must-Try Spot in Trinity Hills

We’ll say it: Trinity Hills doesn’t have a true breakfast spot. But we do. And ours comes with mountain views, fresh baking, and a community that feels like family.

Whether you’re popping in for a tour, staying a while, or thinking about what your next chapter could look like—we’d love to treat you to a taste of Wellings.

Come Experience It for Yourself

Take a walk through the trails that surround us, and then join us. Have a freshly baked pastry and coffee—or perhaps it’s time for a local beer, glass of wine, or the signature cocktail of the day. Just know we’re here for you to enjoy, put your feet up, and let the rest of the day unfold at your pace.

You’re invited to enjoy the flavour of Wellings of Calgary.
Let’s make your next visit a delicious one.

Downsizing in Calgary: When You Know It’s Time & What to Do Next

This Isn’t Your Mom’s Retirement Home — It’s Your Next Chapter.

Let’s face it: the notion of a “retirement home” doesn’t mean what it used to. The old model of institutional living is giving way to something better—more modern, vibrant, and full of social opportunities built for active adults 55+. Carefreedom Living at the Wellings of Calgary provides a front-row seat to daily transformations, once people embrace their new lifestyle and a new mindset around opportunity and growth. “I had to do a lot right to live here, and I’m not giving something up—but gaining more freedom to do what makes me happy.”

So how do you know it’s time to downsize? And what are the next steps? Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or gently guiding a loved one, this article is your Calgary-focused guide to recognizing the signs, navigating the process, and understanding that retirement living is exactly what you want it to be, on your terms.

How Do You Know It’s Time to Downsize?
Here are a few signs that it may be time for a change:

  • The house feels too big or harder to maintain

  • Daily tasks are draining—cooking, shoveling, lawn care, and home maintenance

  • Your social circle is getting smaller, and you’re feeling more isolated or alone

  • You’re thinking about the future and want a plan in place

  • There’s more “stuff” than joy in your space

  • You want a simpler, more flexible lifestyle that supports your goals

If any of these feel familiar, you’re not alone. Downsizing isn’t just about less—it’s about making room for more of what matters.

Your Calgary Downsizing Starter Checklist
Here’s a quick list to help you begin:

Before you begin, think about what parts of your life you enjoy the most, what you might like more of, and what definitely isn’t adding to the joy or fun in your life.
Start with your “why” – Are you looking for more connection? Less upkeep? More peace of mind?

  • Sort one category at a time – Don’t try to do it all at once. “Put all like things together, and sort one category at a time.” – Marie Kondo, organizational specialist

  • Keep only what you use or love – Create three piles: Keep, Toss, Donate. If it doesn’t serve your life now and into the near future, decide what pile it best fits into.

  • Talk to your family – Involve them in your goals and plans.

  • Research lifestyle-focused communities – Consider your needs now and into the near future. Carefree Living at Wellings of Calgary is ideal for those who don’t require care, or explore other independent living communities with first-level and advanced care. Visit up to three communities.

Download our Downsizing Guide for a deeper dive.

Having “The Talk” With Family
You may have read plenty of advice on how to talk to your parents about downsizing or choosing a retirement living community… But what if you’re the one making the decision—or you’re the adult child sensing it’s time to talk?

Here’s our Wellings perspective:

  • Keep the conversation positive and future-focused on the goal of remaining independent for as long as possible

  • Use personal goals (travel, health, freedom) as talking points

  • Visit a community together, take pictures, talk to staff and residents, and enjoy a meal there

  • Don’t make it about giving things up—make it about opening doors

Wellings of Calgary is designed to enable connection and build community, by honouring the goals of our members.

The Power of Socialization: Why It Matters
Did you know that social connection can add years to your life? Studies show that loneliness and isolation are linked to faster cognitive and physical decline in older adults.

That’s why Wellings focuses on community and offers plenty of opportunities to organically socialize—from on-site dining and fitness programs to music, guest speakers, and events that bring people together. Whether it’s a coffee chat or a game of billiards, every small moment of connection contributes to your well-being.

This isn’t just a community to live in—it’s a place to thrive. A home to hundreds of vibrant seniors with wisdom and great stories to share.

Next Steps: Choosing the Right Fit in Calgary
If you’re searching for:

  • Retirement homes in Calgary

  • Independent senior living with flexibility

  • Active 55+ communities near me

…you’ve probably come across a long list of options.

What sets Wellings of Calgary apart is simple:

  • 24-hour concierge service, package delivery, and minor tech support

  • High-speed internet and TV included

  • 100% rental community

  • Spacious suites with spectacular views and exterior balconies

  • Heated underground parking

  • Indoor and outdoor dining spaces with a Chef on site

  • Community-led social programs, fitness classes, and licensed lounges

  • On-site manager and maintenance staff

  • Carefreedom® Living — carefree living on your terms, without the cost of health care you don’t need

Take the First Step Today
You don’t have to do it all at once. The first step is just learning more.

It’s time to rightsize your life, and we’re here to help you get started. Letting go of the clutter will open the door to freedom, connection, and the lifestyle you want—and the one you so richly deserve.

The Ultimate Guide to Retirement Homes in Calgary – Costs, Options & Benefits

Looking for the Best Retirement Homes in Calgary?
Whether you’re considering a move for yourself or a loved one, understanding the available options, costs, and lifestyle benefits is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about retirement homes in Calgary.

What Is a Retirement Home?

A retirement home is a community designed for seniors who want to maintain independence while enjoying social engagement, security, and access to amenities. Calgary offers a variety of carefree or active senior living, independent living, supportive living, and continuing care options.

Types of Retirement Homes in Calgary

  • Active Senior Living: Ideal for adults 55+ who want to transition from a family home to maintenance-free living with flexible options. For these individuals, no assistance or health care is required. Meals and social programming are optional. These communities typically offer licensed restaurants, fitness classes, spas, and concierge services.
  • Independent Living: This is the first level of care, ideal for active seniors who are self-sufficient and require minimal assistance. Retirement homes may offer meals, housekeeping, laundry, and recreational programs.
    Example: Retirement communities
  • Assisted Living/Supportive Living: Assisted or Supportive Living in Calgary is ideal for seniors who require advanced daily care but are still fairly independent. Assistance with dressing, bathing, medication, and access to on-site healthcare professionals is often provided.
    Example: Retirement communities often have a blend of independent and supportive living.
  • Specialized Care: This includes specific care for Dementia and Alzheimer’s when a person can no longer safely reside in an assisted living facility. Safety and well-being become the primary reasons for moving to this type of care as the disease advances.
  • Long-Term Care: Long-term care provides access to doctors, nurses, and healthcare specialists 24/7. These are publicly funded and ideal for individuals with advanced healthcare needs. Accommodation fees and inclusions are established by the government, with private options available.

Cost of Retirement Homes in Calgary

The cost varies depending on the level of care and amenities provided. These are different levels of care and can’t be lumped together. On average:

  • Active Senior Living: Suites are larger, with outdoor balconies and terraces. Approximately $1,999 – $6,500/month.
  • Independent Living: Includes meals, housekeeping, personalized care. Approximately $4,000 – $8,000/month.
  • Supportive Living: Includes meals, housekeeping, laundry, daily health care. Approximately $4,500 – $9,000/month.
  • Specialized Memory Care: $8,000/month.

Choosing the Right Retirement Home

  • Review your budget and financial assistance options.
  • Consider your care needs now and in the future.
  • Identify the amenities that are important to you.
  • Consider location, proximity to services, and family.
  • Choose your top three options.
  • Visit and talk to residents. 

Ready for The Good Life?

Who are we to say what retirement is?!
Retirement is shaped by you and you alone.

At Wellings, we offer Carefreedom living that honours your goal of remaining independent yet connected to a way of life that invites (prompts) you to grow as you age.

Reflect on what’s important, and if you are like us, you’ll see it’s having enough energy to do what you love, it’s the people you surround yourself with, the comforts of living in a safe and inviting home, and being able to break bread with people who inspire or bring a smile to our faces.

Taking the necessary steps to get there as we age may require downsizing and moving, building new connections, embracing a new way of life, and trusting that there are better options for active retirement living.

Wellings Communities have offered a carefree way of life for over ten years and together, with our members, we continue to be trailblazers in the active senior living category.

You have options, and it’s time to discover more.

Are you ready to explore?

Visit us, and book your tour today.