Over the holidays, we’ll be celebrating communities where every person feels at home. Throughout the year, we’ve shared moments of care, belonging, and joy across our communities. And these connections are what bring our purpose to life. In the spirit of the season, Optima Living Principal Farid Damji would like to share a holiday message on behalf of all of us at Optima.

We invite you to watch and join us in spreading warmth and kindness this season. From all of us at Optima Living, Merry Christmas and happy holidays.


When home isn’t enough: Recognizing the need for long-term care

Most families begin the journey toward long-term care long before they ever make the first phone call. The signs often appear quietly at first—subtle shifts in health, mobility, or daily living that gradually create safety concerns. For many caregivers, these changes can feel overwhelming, especially when they unfold slowly and silently. That’s why understanding the early indicators can help you make a confident, compassionate decision about what comes next.

At Oakwood Manor, we see this transition from all angles: from the perspective of the resident, the family member, and the team supporting both. And while every situation is unique, one truth remains constant—you are not alone in this process. Many families walk this path with a mix of relief, guilt, uncertainty, and love. Our role is to help you navigate it with clarity, dignity, and support.


This time of year is the season of reflection and celebration in many forms. Across Optima Living communities, many of our residents and team members are celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, while others are choosing this time to give back, rest, and reflect on the year behind us. At Optima Living we are thankful for the people that make our communities feel like home. Residents, families, team members, and partners all helped to create that sense of belonging in 2025

As the year comes to a close, and however you choose to spend this season, we wish you well and hope the holidays are filled with moments of warmth and comfort in the ways that matter most to you. From all of us at Optima Living, happy holidays and best wishes.


4 Tips fo Winter Wellness

While there’s so much to love about the winter season, it’s extra important to take care of yourself during the colder months! ❄️

Shorter days and chilly weather can sometimes make it harder to stay active or keep spirits high. That’s why focusing on healthy habits is key. Small daily choices can make all the difference in feeling strong, energized, and joyful all season long. Here are a few things to keep in mind this winter!

  1. 💦 Stay Hydrated: Even in the cold, your body needs plenty of water to stay balanced and feeling its best.
  2. 💃 Move Your Body: Stay active indoors to keep joints flexible and spirits high.
  3. 💬 Connect with Others: Beat the winter blues by spending time with friends and family.
  4. 🍲 Eat Nourishing Meals: Enjoy hearty, wholesome foods that keep you warm and support your immune system.

Every suite includes a phone, and adding pictures of family and friends to the call buttons makes staying in touch easier and more comforting for residents. With one press, they can reach a familiar voice and a familiar face, which can bring peace of mind and a sense of connection every time the phone rings. It’s a small detail that helps residents stay oriented, recognize familiar faces, and feel the comfort of home, even in daily routines.

Our respite care offers short-term stays for seniors, giving families peace of mind while ensuring residents receive attentive, compassionate care. Our team is here to provide comfort, connection, and a home-like environment every step of the way.