People of Perley - Marsha Gilchrist

On summer days, Marsha likes to sit by the pond across from her apartment at Perley Health. The steady hush of water is calming, familiar. Once, while sitting there with her husband Butch, she drifted off to sleep. 

It's a small moment, but a happy and memorable one for Marsha. It's also part of what drew her here to Perley. 

Marsha lives in one of Perley Health's Senior Living apartments and receives support through the Assisted Living Services for High Risk Seniors program.

“The reason I chose this place is because I had a tour through here and it was really nice,” she explains. “I found the staff very kind and nice, and I find they're very helpful. They're very understanding of your needs. They have a really nice pond here across the road and I love listening to the water.”

Perley Senior Living apartments were designed with that kind of daily living in mind. Opened in 2013, the two buildings include 139 accessible apartments ranging from studios to two-bedroom units. They are situated close to gardens, walking paths, and the pond. Home to ducks and birds, the pond is also stocked with large goldfish. A public path and gazebo nearby make this a popular gathering place for residents and neighbours alike. 

For Marsha, the setting matters. So does the support that allows her to remain independent. 

Perley Health's Assisted Living Program provides personalized care for seniors who need regular support but want to continue living in their own apartment. Staff assist with personal care, medication reminders and daily routines, and are available 24/7, ensuring help is always close at hand. Personalized care plans are tailored to each tenant by an experienced care team, helping people remain active and safe even as their needs change. 

For Marsha that support makes everyday life here easier.

Marsha keeps busy with activities, walks, and conversations with staff and neighbours.

“I like to meet people; talk to people. I just like getting involved,” she says. 

Choir, in particular, holds a special place. 

“I love the choir that Trudy has," referring to the staff member who led the choir.  A musician and former member of the Therapeutic Recreation and Creative Arts team, Trudy ensured Marsha could take part fully in choir. “Trudy contacted the CNIB and got all my books in Braille so I could read and sing along. That was really helpful.”

Getting to activities sometimes requires an extra hand. Volunteers regularly accompany residents across campus so they can take part in programs, attend appointments, or simply enjoy a stroll in good company. 

For Marsha, moments of care and kindness stand out in other ways, too. 

“It was our anniversary and Patty, one of the Personal Support Workers, took Butch and my picture in different poses. I really enjoyed that day. We also made a turkey dinner for Christmas. I helped her and I really enjoyed helping.”

For Marsha, life at Perley is shaped by many small things that all work together. Support when needed, opportunities to stay social and active, and community that makes space for the people who live in it. And sometimes, a quiet place beside the pond.

More from Marsha (click to watch!)

"I found the staff very kind and nice and very helpful. They're very understanding of your needs and that's why I chose the Perley.” - Marsha Gilchrist, Tenant