What’s It Really Like to Live at The Edward? A Day in the Life of Inspired Senior Living

Imagine waking up not to the buzz of urgency, but to the soft light filtering through elegant drapery and the knowledge that today is yours—completely. Nestled in the heart of Calgary, The Edward is more than a senior living residence—it’s a lifestyle that honours refinement, personal freedom, and connection. Here, every day unfolds like a thoughtfully written chapter, blending cultural richness with simple pleasures, comfort with choice, and independence with community.

In this blog, we invite you to step into a typical day at The Edward. See how daily rituals, shared moments, and thoughtful design create an extraordinary experience for our residents—one filled with joy, purpose, and elegance.

Morning: Ease, Intention, and a Warm Croissant

At The Edward, mornings begin gently. The Nest bistro hums with conversation and the smell of fresh espresso. Residents trickle in at their leisure, greeting each other by name as they gather for breakfast—a continental breakfast during the week, and a special brunch on weekends.

After breakfast, many residents choose to start their day with movement and mindfulness. Options include:

• Gentle fitness classes like yoga, meditation, or balance and strength training

• A private, one-on-one personal training session designed to support strength, balance, and overall well-being.

• A moment of solitude in the courtyard garden, surrounded by seasonal blooms

These small rituals—morning movement, a good coffee, a warm hello—offer comfort and consistency. They set a tone of calm, but also possibility. 

Learn more about the power of morning routines in this article from Second Wind Movement.

Midday: Enrichment and Expression

As the sun rises higher, The Edward’s cultural life comes alive.

Many residents describe this part of the day as their time to “stretch out”—not just physically, but creatively and socially. Some may join:

• A lively language class or unwind with a few rounds of classic card games

• A local excursion to a gallery, park, or historical site

• A resident-led club—whist, bridge, or mahjong 

Residents often say the best part of the day isn’t necessarily the activity itself—it’s the feeling of belonging, of sharing a laugh or insight with a neighbour. Whether they’re learning something new or simply revisiting an old passion, the experience is always elevated by the company.

This Health Council of Canada article explores how strong social connections can transform both physical and mental well-being, especially for older adults seeking a greater sense of purpose, vitality, and resilience.

Lunch & Happy Hour: The Joy of Gathering

Mealtimes at The Edward are about more than nourishment—they’re about connection. Lunch is served in the beautifully appointed dining room, with chef-crafted dishes that feel both gourmet and comforting. Residents enjoy:

• Locally sourced ingredients with global flair

• Warm service, tailored to individual preferences

• Shared tables with lively conversation

But it’s Happy Hour that truly captures the heart of our community. Held in the lobby lounge bar, it’s a chance to relax and reconnect. While some enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine, others sip tea or sparkling water—the joy comes not from the drink, but from the ritual of coming together.

According to a Penn State University study, older adults who engage in regular social interactions may experience sharper cognitive function and improved mental clarity in their daily lives.

Afternoon: Leisure with Purpose

The energy at The Edward shifts gently into the afternoon—unhurried, but never idle.

Residents spend these hours doing what brings them personal joy and enrichment:

• Participating in card clubs or games

• Volunteering in the garden (our herbs and vegetables often make their way to the kitchen)

• Hosting or attending their own clubs—book circles, tastings, or guest speakers

• Scheduling wellness treatments or visiting the salon

While the community offers a robust and curated calendar, residents are also deeply independent. Many have active lives outside of the residence—attending events in Calgary, mentoring, or pursuing personal projects. 

Evening: Shared Meals, Laughter, and Leisure

Evenings at The Edward are a celebration of togetherness and calm. Dinner is a shared affair, often marked by animated conversation, elegant dishes, and a sense of slowing down.

After dinner, residents might attend:

• A live jazz performance or chamber music evening

• A screening in the private theatre

• Or a quiet round of bridge or mahjong to end the evening

These moments often spark the most laughter and camaraderie. According to this ArchWell Health article sharing meals not only enhances nutrition but also combats loneliness, improves social connections, and promotes overall well-being among older adults.

The Edward’s Atmosphere: Designed for Belonging and Balance

What truly elevates daily life at The Edward is its atmosphere. The architecture and interiors are refined, warm, and inviting. Art is not just décor—it’s part of the daily experience. The light-filled spaces, cozy nooks, and thoughtful touches create a feeling of calm luxury.

But more importantly, The Edward is designed to honour both connection and choice.

Residents can join in when they wish—but their autonomy is always respected. From in-suite dining to independent clubs, The Edward supports each individual’s rhythm. 

A Life of Your Own, Shared with Others

At The Edward, daily life is not about filling time—it’s about enriching it. Whether it’s the comfort of morning rituals, the spark of connection at mealtime, or the elegance of an evening concert, every moment offers something meaningful. And always on your terms.

Our residents aren’t just living—they’re living well, surrounded by people who respect their independence and share their love of beauty, conversation, and purpose.

This is a day in the life at The Edward. But more importantly, it’s your life—designed, supported, and celebrated every step of the way.

Continue your journey here

Looking to take the next step or simply stay connected? Here are a few helpful links:

• Contact us – We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.

• Book a tour – Come experience our community in person.

• Check out events at The Edward - From seasonal markets to art showings, there’s always something inspiring happening here.

• Visit our YouTube channel – See daily life, special moments, expert interviews and resident stories in action.

About The Edward:

Nestled in the heart of Calgary, The Edward is a luxury retirement living community where comfort, independence, and cultural enrichment come together in perfect harmony. Here, every day is thoughtfully designed to support a personalized lifestyle—one that celebrates your passions, priorities, and sense of self. With curated five-star dining, wellness-focused amenities, concierge and chauffeur services, vibrant social connections, and more, The Edward provides more than just retirement living—it offers a meaningful way of life. Experience a refined, worry-free lifestyle where your next chapter unfolds with grace, warmth, and endless possibility. Managed by Optima Living, a trusted operator with over 15 years of experience in Western Canada, The Edward is built on a legacy of warmth, respect, and purposeful living.