Grey County Long-Term Care Homes: Summer Highlights and Fall Plans
Residents at Grey Gables, Lee Manor, and Rockwood Terrace enjoyed summer outings, fairs, and music recently; fall events and family surveys are coming up soon.
Grey County’s three long-term care homes are heading into fall with full calendars, fresh memories of summer, and a renewed focus on resident and family feedback.
Jennifer Cornell, Director of Long-Term Care and Senior Services, says upcoming Resident and Family Satisfaction Surveys are central to planning improvements across the homes.
Cornell also attended the Association of Municipalities of Ontario conference in August, where she and Grey County officials met with the Minister of Long-Term Care. The delegation discussed staffing challenges, advocated for support roles alongside PSWs, and provided updates on redevelopment at Rockwood Terrace.
Here’s a brief look at what’s been happening at Lee Manor, Grey Gables, and Rockwood Terrace.
Lee Manor: Creativity, Community, and a Busy September Ahead
August was filled with energy at Lee Manor in Owen Sound. Jersey Day brought out residents’ team spirit as they cheered on the Blue Jays while wearing their favourite jerseys and hats. The day wouldn’t have been complete without popcorn, cheesies, and pulled pork sandwiches — a nod to classic ballpark fare.
Arts and crafts programs thrived over the summer, with resident-led bookmark painting becoming a highlight. Participants experimented with vibrant colours and personalized designs, and many residents expressed pride in leading and sharing the activity with others.
Scenic drives through Cobble Beach and Leith/Annan added variety, offering late-summer views along Georgian Bay. Residents also spent time in the FamiLee Garden and cooled off with sweet treats from the Ice Cream Parlour.
September is shaping up to be a busy month. Residents celebrated Grandparent’s Day on September 7, took part in a shopping trip to Giant Tiger on September 8, and enjoyed a Coffee Club Social on September 12 in support of the annual Alzheimer’s Coffee Club.
Residents’ Council Week runs from September 15 to 20, recognizing the important role residents play in shaping their home. Later in the month, residents will celebrate Oktoberfest with pretzels and beer tasting on September 24 and take part in Orange Shirt Day on September 30 to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
New student contributions are also making a difference this season. James, a co-op student with the Maintenance Department, has brought energy and support to daily operations. Meanwhile, Cali, a student volunteer with Recreation, has introduced Drum Fit, a rhythm-based exercise program that quickly became a resident favourite.
The Lee Manor Family Council will hold its next meeting on September 26 at 2 p.m. in the Family Dining Room, with a virtual option available.
Grey Gables: Surveys, Summer Outings, and Advocacy
August was a busy and joyful month at Grey Gables in Markdale, with residents making the most of sunny weather and plenty of outdoor time. Patio lunches, lively socials, and afternoons spent tending flower and vegetable gardens set the tone for the season.
Two scenic bus trips were highlights. One group travelled to Meaford to enjoy the Georgian Bay shoreline, while another spent the day at Owen Sound’s Harrison Park, relaxing to the sounds of the Sydenham River and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
An afternoon of duck races brought laughter and lighthearted competition, as residents cheered their tiny racers across the finish line.
Residents also took part in the 167th annual Markdale Fall Fair, entering homegrown vegetables, colourful flowers, homemade baking, and handcrafted items. Their efforts were rewarded with a collection of prize ribbons, adding to the sense of pride and accomplishment.
Looking ahead, the Grey Gables Family Council is set to resume meetings after a summer pause. The next gathering takes place on September 16 at 11 a.m. in the Heritage Room, with hybrid participation available for those joining from home.
Rockwood Terrace: Music, Gardens, and a New Leadership Appointment
Residents at Rockwood Terrace in Durham spent the summer enjoying gardens, music, and plenty of community connections. The Garden Club’s tomato crop thrived in the August heat, and residents joined together for ice cream socials, a lemon-themed gathering, and time relaxing in the Pinegrove Garden.
Music remained a highlight. Performances by local favourites including Spencer Bristow, Cowboy Up, Cathy Kempert, and Joe Passion filled the home with song, while a long-anticipated return visit from accordionist Peter Ruigrok delighted residents. As one council member put it, “Music is good for the soul.” New drumming sessions also encouraged residents to discover their own rhythm.
Food brought people together, too. Residents helped husk fresh, local corn and worked with the nutrition team to prepare homemade chili sauce, which was later entered in the Durham Fall Fair. Many also cherished visits from children and family members, making the season especially meaningful.
This fall brings more community events. Residents hosted a Terry Fox Walk on September 10, and will have a Fall Carnival on September 17 featuring games, treats, and live music by Joe Passion.
The Canadian Motorcycle Cruisers will stop by on September 19 as part of their Ride for Dementia, and an Alzheimer’s Coffee Break is planned for September 20. The next Family Council meeting will take place on September 30 at 10:30 a.m.
Rockwood Terrace also announced that Rebecca Smith will step into the role of Resident and Family Services Manager on September 22. Smith is no stranger to the home, having worked previously as a Recreationist and Nursing & Rehabilitation Lead, and most recently serving in the same role at Lee Manor.
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