Families Share Their Experiences
The trust families place in us is something we value deeply. Here are some of their thoughts about life at Harbour Haven.
Return Home
The trust families place in us is something we value deeply. Here are some of their thoughts about life at Harbour Haven.
Return HomeBurlington, ON
My father has been at Harbour Haven for eight months now. The staff genuinely know him and remember his preferences. They accommodate his habit of reading in the garden each morning, which might seem small but means everything to him. I've noticed he seems more content than he was living alone.
January 4, 2025
Oakville, ON
When my mother's dementia progressed, we needed specialized support. The memory care program here is thoughtfully designed. Staff are patient and skilled at redirecting without causing distress. She participates in music sessions and seems calmer than she was at home. They keep us informed about her days.
December 29, 2024
Hamilton, ON
We used respite care when I needed surgery and couldn't provide my usual support to my uncle. The short-term stay went smoothly. They assessed his needs on arrival and adapted their assistance accordingly. It gave me peace of mind during recovery.
January 11, 2025
Mississauga, ON
The setting here is lovely – lots of natural light and access to the gardens. My grandmother enjoys sitting outside when weather permits. The food accommodates her dietary needs without being bland. Staff check in regularly but don't hover. She's made a few friends among other residents.
January 8, 2025
Burlington, ON
Communication has been good. When there are changes in my father's condition or medication, they contact me promptly. I appreciate being included in care planning discussions. The staff seem to have low turnover, so there's continuity in who's providing care.
December 22, 2024
Toronto, ON
My mother was hesitant about moving, but the transition went better than expected. Staff took time to learn her routines and preferences. She's gradually become comfortable here. The family meeting we had after the first month was helpful for addressing minor concerns early.
January 14, 2025
Burlington, ON
The activities program offers variety without being overwhelming. My grandfather enjoys the exercise classes and occasional outings. They don't pressure residents to participate, which he appreciates. The schedule is flexible enough that he can maintain his own rhythm.
January 2, 2025
Oakville, ON
Being close to the lake and having outdoor spaces was important to us. The grounds are well-maintained, and residents can access them easily. My aunt enjoys watching the birds and sitting in the garden. These simple pleasures matter more than elaborate amenities.
December 18, 2024
Hamilton, ON
The admission process was straightforward. They explained costs clearly and answered all our questions without rushing us. Once we decided to proceed, move-in happened within a week. Staff helped settle my father in and made sure he felt oriented to his new environment.
January 6, 2025
Margaret, a widow in her early eighties, had become increasingly isolated after her husband passed. Her daughter noticed she rarely left the house and seemed withdrawn during phone calls.
Living alone had become difficult. Margaret was managing basic tasks but had lost interest in activities she once enjoyed. Her daughter lived an hour away and worried about the lack of social interaction and declining mood.
Margaret moved into assisted living. Staff learned about her background as a librarian and her love of gardening. They invited her to help organize the residence library and participate in the garden committee. Activities programming included book discussions and gardening projects.
Within three months, Margaret had developed friendships with several other residents. She looks forward to weekly book club meetings and spends time maintaining the herb garden. Her daughter reports that their conversations are livelier and Margaret seems more like herself again.
"I was skeptical about moving here, but I'm glad I did. Having people around who share my interests has made a real difference. The staff remember that I prefer tea to coffee and don't mind that I'm not a morning person." — Margaret
Thomas had been caring for his wife Patricia at home as her Alzheimer's progressed. After several years, the physical and emotional demands were becoming overwhelming.
Patricia required constant supervision and had begun experiencing sundowning and sleep disturbances. Thomas was exhausted but struggled with the decision to seek external care, feeling he was abandoning his responsibilities.
Patricia moved to our memory care program. Staff met with Thomas extensively to learn about her life history, preferences, and routines. They incorporated her favorite music into daily activities and displayed family photos in her suite. Thomas visits daily and participates in care planning.
Patricia's agitation decreased in the structured environment. Thomas can now focus on being present during visits rather than managing all care tasks. He reports feeling relief and has resumed some activities he had given up. Their relationship has shifted from caregiver-patient to husband-wife again.
"The guilt was difficult at first, but the staff helped me understand that this decision allowed me to be a better husband. Patricia seems calmer here, and I can actually enjoy our time together now instead of constantly worrying." — Thomas
After a fall and hip surgery, 78-year-old George needed more support than he could manage alone at home, but he was determined to regain as much independence as possible.
George's mobility was limited post-surgery. His home had stairs that were now problematic, and he needed assistance with bathing and dressing. Physical therapy was ongoing, but he needed a safe environment during recovery.
George moved to Harbour Haven temporarily. Staff coordinated with his physiotherapist and provided assistance calibrated to his improving abilities. They encouraged him to do what he could independently while being available for tasks still difficult. The accessible environment allowed him to move safely.
After six months, George's mobility had improved significantly. While he had initially planned to return home, he decided to stay at Harbour Haven. He appreciates not having to manage household tasks and enjoys the social opportunities. He now participates in exercise classes and outings.
"I thought this would be temporary, but I've come to appreciate the setup here. I'm more active now than I was before the fall, and I don't have to worry about maintaining a house." — George
Years in Operation
Families Served
Average Rating
Family Satisfaction
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday: By appointment
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