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Making Memories program is reconnecting Westmount residents with their passions
Programs tailored to individual interests are taking residents on trips down memory lane
2/9/2026
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Deron Hamel
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From billiards and classic cars to puzzles and virtual travel, a personalized program at Westmount Gardens is helping residents reconnect with their passions.
Over the past year, the London, Ont., long-term care community's Making Memories program has continued to grow, creating individualized experiences based on residents' lifelong hobbies and passions, says Adnan Resh, Westmount's life enrichment manager.
Formerly known as Make-a-Wish, the program is designed to help residents relive meaningful moments or rediscover favourite activities, Adnan explains.
In one case, a resident who had long enjoyed playing billiards but no longer had access to a pool table was taken to a nearby pool hall, where he spent an afternoon playing and socializing.
Another resident, described by Adnan as a “puzzle master,” received a customized 520-piece puzzle created from a photograph supplied by her daughter showing the resident with two close friends.
“It was a great photo, and we turned it into a 520-piece puzzle,” Adnan tells S&R Today. “The resident loved it; (she) thought it was very funny and enjoyed every bit of putting it together.”
A resident who is a longtime car enthusiast with a particular love of Ford Mustangs was given a model kit of the iconic vehicle. With help from a life enrichment team member, he assembled the model and now keeps it in his room as a reminder of the four Mustangs he owned over the years.
Another resident originally from Jamaica was treated to a virtual getaway, complete with a virtual-reality tour of Montego Bay and a lunch featuring some of her favourite Jamaican foods.
“The virtual tour reminded her of all the beautiful beaches she used to have so much fun at,” Adnan says.
A veteran who served aboard the HMCS Bonaventure and was stationed in Halifax was taken on a visit to the nearby Royal Canadian Regiment Museum, where he was joined by his daughter.
“He was in his happy place and loved looking at all the memorabilia,” Adnan says.
The program has also supported residents with creative interests. One resident who wanted to learn new makeup techniques received a selection of cosmetics chosen specifically in her favourite colours. A life enrichment team member then guided her through new tips and techniques.
“The resident was in awe of herself throughout the entire session,” Adnan says.
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