• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
United Active Living

United Active Living

United Active Living Communities for independent living

  • Home
  • Care Options
    • Independent living
    • Assisted living
    • Memory Care
    • Alzheimer’s
    • Integrated living
  • Communities
    • Garrison Green
    • Fish Creek West
    • Fish Creek North
  • About Us
    • Our Values
    • Partnerships
  • Blog
  • Contact Us
  • Book a tour
  • 403-873-3953
  • 587-841-5134

Dani Dykema – A Tribute to the Value of Community

February 15, 2018

When St. Mary’s University student Dani Dykema decided to spend a school year living and working with the residents of United’s Fish Creek community, she wasn’t sure what to expect. The experience is part of a program at United called Students-in-Residence. As the name suggests, students move into United’s two communities. The experience is so profound that many former students-in-residence have remained connected to United after their residence term has ended. Dani expects the same after May when her term ends. Despite the age difference the residents have accepted her with open arms and now she is reluctant to leave her new-found group of friends. This is her farewell note to residents:

Dani with friends June and Eric Selgensen
Dani with friends June and Eric Selgensen

When I tell people that I live in a retirement community, I often get a tilted head or confused expression in response. To most people, a student living amongst retired older adults would seem like an odd mix, but what I can’t impress enough is how amazing this experience has been for me.

Living as a student here at United’s Fish Creek community has not only been transformative but it’s also been very healing for me personally. During my six-month stay at United, I have nurtured many close relationships with my fellow residents on a daily basis, whether it be having breakfast together in the morning, watching movies at night, or facilitating my music program.

I have been able to foster these connections at a deeper level as I am very invested in my neighbour’s lives, as they are in mine. The residents affectionately refer to me as “the resident granddaughter” and that seems to sum up this whole experience. This is particularly meaningful for me because prior to living here I did not have this in my life.

There’s nothing quite like knowing you have over 80 people fully supporting you on your journey.

A few months ago, I had the unfortunate experience of breaking my leg in a skiing accident. How convenient was it that I happen to live in a community without stairs, handrails in the shower and wide enough doors for my wheelchair! When I came home from the surgery, I was initially quite worried that I would miss out on a lot going on in the community, but was soon proven wrong. I had residents visit me twice a day while I was recovering, bring me little goodies and provide lots of words of comfort.

Dani plays regularly for residents
Dani plays regularly for residents

These are the outcomes of being able to cultivate meaningful relationships with others. You end up with a group of people that truly care about each other, through the investment of energy and goodwill. This is ultimately what the Student-in-Residence program at United Active Living seeks to accomplish; bridging the gap between generations and enriching lives through mutual encouragement and support. The kindness and love shown to me by my neighbours has ultimately been a healing experience and I will cherish this for the rest of my life.

I love being a part of this community and having the opportunity to further develop the skills it takes to interact with others. This experience has allowed a merging of worlds that might not have otherwise happened.

Not only are the residents now an extension of my own family, but I will continue to stay connected with them as I move on. I want to extend a formal thank you to my fellow residents and the staff members for their support. Thank you for making me feel welcome and included. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity and experience.

Love, Dani

Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help! 

Contact us here!

Want more great articles like these sent straight to your inbox?

Sign up for a newsletter.

Footer

logo
(403) 873-3953
Book a tour
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • Instagram
  • youtube
  • LinkedIn
  • Our Services
    • Independent living
    • Assisted living
    • Memory Care
  • Our Difference
    • United Minds
    • Commitment to Wellness
    • Integrated living
  • Health & Wellness
    • Wellness Services
    • Hospitality Services
    • Services & Amenities
  • Programs & Events
    • Partnerships
    • Education Programs
    • Arts & Culture Programs
  • About Us
    • FAQ
    • The Transition to Senior Living
  • Reaching us
    • Careers
    • Contact Us
Garrison Green (Integrated Living) 3028 Don Ethell Boulevard SW
Calgary, Alberta
T3E 0C9
 
Rentals and Leasing: (403) 917-1389 Concierge: (403) 685-7200 Fax: (403) 240-3772
Fish Creek North (Memory Care + Assisted) 51 Providence Boulevard SE
Calgary, Alberta
T2X 0X2
 
Rentals and Leasing: (587) 841-5134 Concierge: (587) 481 7907 Fax: (403) 873-3961
Fish Creek West (Independent Living) 14720 1 St SE
Calgary, Alberta
T2X 2A3
 
Rentals and Leasing: (587) 609-8167 Concierge: (587) 481 7907 Fax: (403) 873-3961

Copyright © 2023 United Active Living Website Licensed by Tastic Marketing | Marketing by Digital SeniorityTerms of ServicePrivacy Policy

Unique Assisted Living at United's Garrison Green - Calgary, AB