A COMFORT LIFE REPORT:
Amica Little Lake vs. The Roxborough Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

Amica is a trusted name for good reason. Amica Little Lake in Barrie exemplifies the finest quality senior living, with services tailored to meet diverse needs from independent living to specialized memory care. It’s set near the serene Little Lake, tranquil surroundings that carry over to life in the community.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Seniors and family members agree that the Roxborough renews people's enjoyment of life. That begins with the reinvigoration of moving into a clean, still-new place—but that’s deepened by the day-to-day environment here. It's a revelation to people how great life can be in a place where they’re surrounded by fellow seniors and service-minded staff.

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

I moved my parents to Amica Little Lake this fall after touring many retirement homes in Barrie and am very pleased with my decision. It is bright, clean, and offers an excellent variety of events and quiet places to relax. There are too many excellent staff to mention by name, but they are everywhere: dining room, IT, cleaning staff, as well as the team of hands-on care partners and RNs. They know who they are. The ones who put their hand on their heart when they hear of your loved one's passing and ask how you are doing because they truly care. Yes, Amica is expensive. But it was the right choice for us.

Our Dad moved to Amica Little Lake in Barrie this year. He was on the Assisted Living floor. Unfortunately, he passed away at the ripe old age of 95. We could not have asked for better care than was provided to him. The Nursing & PSWs were next level! The management was superb. We felt like they were family and made our Dad so comfortable. He had been to other retirement homes in the past, but this place stood out. Thank you for taking great care of him!

I would like to thank the Amica Little Lake staff for their care and concern when moving in my family member. It is the perfect place for her. She enjoys the entertainment, the speakers, and the outings. She has become healthier since moving there, and her one-bedroom suite is large and beautiful. All the staff treat people with respect, and helped make a very difficult time into a smooth and positive experience.

Tammy, the head of nursing, and Laura, the Director of Amica client care, were quick to assist, offering outstanding care to our Mother who required daily care subsequent to her hospital stay. Tammy, Laura, and the entire staff at Amica Little Lake went out of their way to offer daily care and support for our mother. The staff, nurses, PSWs were amazing, kind, and caring. As a result of their outstanding care, our mother improved in her health plight and became stronger, more independent and able to become independent in her daily living. Thank you to Tammy Deschamps, Laura Vincent, and all the Amica Staff. You are amazing people!!!

Our mother had the pleasure to move into this beautiful home in April 2022. The location overlooking Little Lake is lovely with many spots to enjoy the view (balconies or the lower level). While parking can be a challenge, this is eased when you enter the home and feel the activity and overall happiness of the residents. So many options for one to join in social events and to enjoy a variety of outings or activities. Our Mom made many friends quickly amongst staff and residents. Staff assisted with encouraging friendships (likeminded people) or aiding Mom to get to her activities. Staff from the care team, housekeeping, to dining staff are special here. To name a few staff/team members; Kelsey, Dhruvi, Monali, Anne (RCP), Goldie, Gaganpreet (Lala), Joe (culinary), Bhonsi (activities), Savannah, Dakota, Sarah (housekeeping), Cassidy, Christie, Dhruvi (evenings), and Brittany (& many others) all made special efforts to know Mom (& her routine) and provide the best care to her and most of all love her. Tammy, as the Director of Care, has been a welcome addition for hearing concerns with respect to the care plan for Mom, especially as Mom declined. Michelle and Laura are available to guide and assist as well, to make things better where they can. Lisa was always helpful and kind in managing issues. And Monil ensured anything maintenance-wise was dealt with promptly. This was Mom's third retirement residence due to health circumstances (moving at 90 yrs old from another city to be closer to us). Like anywhere else, I’d recommend family being involved in care and review the monthly invoices and care plans (regularly) for accuracy. Being an active participant in your family member’s care makes the experience in any retirement home more personalized and ensures proper care. I can say management at Little Lake addresses matters when brought to their attention. ... Amica Little Lake is the only home we’ve found (Collingwood, Midland and Barrie area) where Mom could move into and stay (lifts, transfers with mechanical means) no matter how her health declined. It truly was HOME, where another move to long-term care wasn’t required to be considered or managed. Overall, Mom enjoyed living here, was glad she moved here, and thought her care was good. The food has a nice variety and is delicious, and the activities offered are wonderful. Mom passed away earlier this year. However, I still visit my friends at Amica and I am welcomed “home” every time by staff, residents, and management. That’s pretty remarkable.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

My wife Angela and I moved into the Roxborough in Dec 2023. We are an active couple and weren’t sure if this was right for us. However, the staff and residents welcomed us warmly, and we have made a lot of friends here. Activities are many and far-reaching, something for everyone. Some activities include social events, special outings, live entertainment, movies, and of course, Bingo…all keep you as busy as you like or not. We have travelled extensively and have eaten in some outstanding venues, but I have to say the food at the Roxborough rivals any of them. The meals are exceptional, ingredients are fresh (many herbs are grown in our own garden), everything is well prepared, tasty, and varied. The facility itself is so comfortable and well-maintained, and boasts a peaceful and beautiful courtyard, and underground parking is a wonderful addition, especially in the winter. Everyone from the wait staff in the restaurant, maintenance to housekeeping, to life enrichment…the staff are marvellous. We recommend the Roxborough highly!

I was very fortunate to have such a positive experience during my rehab at The Roxborough in April of this year. It is spear headed by Melanie. Melanie was in contact with me from setting the initial meeting to explain what was offered and allowed me to put my possessions in early to accommodate my surgery schedule. The staff on a whole were also very polite as was my case with the night attendants. Bringing more ice at night and adding a couple of cookies to tide me over. I would highly recommend The Roxborough for anyone's recuperation.

My wife Joyce and I moved into the Roxy in August and couldn't be more satisfied. Where does one start ? The staff are without exception - Fabulous ! The food is 5 star all the way as at each meal you always get options; is always the freshest imaginable; always served on linen table cloths; is changed after each person is finished dining and includes the nicest wait staff possible. Add to this, you can dine on your schedule ( with -in certain hours ) and choose to sit with new friends each meal OR sit at the same table with the same friends. Your choice. What could be better ?

I highly recommend the Roxborough for anyone considering retirement options for themselves or their loved ones. Dianne at the front desk is so friendly and always ready to help. Carrie, their Health & Wellness Manager goes above and beyond to coordinate services and reassess care plans as needs evolve. The building itself is well-maintained, cozy and chic. They offer a wide range of activities and events to keep residents actively engaged in the community. Safety features across the building provide peace of mind, allowing residents to live as independently as possible. My favourite feature was their large beautiful terrace. It has lots of space to walk around and raised garden beds for those who aren't ready to give up their backyards just yet.

When we were searching for a retirement residence for Willy, my mother-in-law, The Roxborough wasn't even on our radar. But by chance we took a tour of this Newmarket residence, right across the street from Southlake Hospital, and were immediately impressed by its cozy atmosphere, the warmth and kindness of its staff, and most importantly, the smiles we saw among many of The Roxborough's residents. This was an encouraging sign. Since then, after moving Willy into a suite facing a beautiful courtyard, we've been incredibly heartened by the care Willy has received in her new home. As a 97 year old, recently widowed lady who had been a social butterfly throughout her life, Willy has found a new community supported by caring professionals who seem to have made it their mission to bring comfort and security to its residents in their golden years.

Cathy Charpentier, management

Silvia Perkins, daughter of resident

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

At Amica Little Lake, we are a premium retirement community designed to bring together comfort, connection, and personalized care in a setting that feels both elevated and welcoming. Located on the shores of Little Lake in Barrie, our residence offers a unique blend of natural beauty and refined living, where residents can enjoy scenic views while remaining close to the city’s amenities, healthcare services, and local culture. At our core, we are a community built around people. We believe retirement living should be vibrant, engaging, and tailored to each individual. Whether someone is fully independent or requires assisted living or memory care, our approach is centered on meeting residents where they are, with flexibility, dignity, and genuine compassion. Our team is committed to creating meaningful relationships, ensuring that every resident feels known, supported, and valued. Our lifestyle is defined by choice and quality. From chef-prepared dining and thoughtfully designed suites to enriching programs and social experiences, every detail is curated to enhance daily life. Residents can pursue their interests, build new friendships, and maintain their independence, all within a safe and supportive environment. Ultimately, we are more than a place to live - we are a community where seniors can continue to thrive, and where families can feel confident knowing their loved ones are cared for with professionalism, warmth, and respect.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

The Roxborough is located in historic Newmarket just steps away from Southlake Regional Health Centre. Elegantly appointed rooms from studios to two bedroom and den suites. Three meals available daily. Certified healthcare staff and Emergency Response System 24-hours a day plus assisted living packages if required. Weekly housekeeping, linen and towel service. Cozy, comfortable and vibrant amenity spaces and activities to suit your personal lifestyle; choose to join, relax or watch, your day your way.

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

At Amica Little Lake, our difference lies in seamlessly blending premium hospitality with personalized care. Residents and families value the ability to access independent living, assisted living, and memory care in one community, offering continuity and peace of mind. Dining is a standout - our all-day service (7am–7pm) lets residents eat when they choose, where they choose, encouraging connection and eliminating congestion. For those who prefer structure, we offer a more intimate dining space, while our memory care neighbourhood features its own dining room with sensory-focused breakfast preparation. This flexibility, combined with a lakeside setting and a team that truly knows each resident, sets us apart.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Our dining services, influenced by kitchen staff with hotelier backgrounds, is second to none in the area: from cherry socials at the height of cherry season to ladies high teas, we can accommodate the gourmands and the epicurious Our warm wood and fine furnishes makes The Roxborough cozy and relatable for those looking for upscale but homey surroundings.

Named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for the third consecutive year (2023–2025) the prestigious award recognizes Verve’s proven leadership in retirement residence management, its strong and values‑driven employee culture, and its ongoing focus on innovation and exceptional resident experience across its communities.

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

At Amica Little Lake, we make the transition into retirement living smooth and reassuring. From day one, Residents receive personalized support as we learn their routines, preferences, and care needs. Our team assists with suite setup, introduces programs, and helps build early social connections. A resident-led council (members on every floor) welcomes newcomers and helps them feel at home quickly, while our life enrichment team actively fosters friendships through tailored activities. With flexible dining, consistent staffing, and open communication with families, we create a warm, supportive environment where residents can confidently settle into their new lifestyle.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

We offer a buddy system to link new residents with those who have called The Roxborough home for some time. Managers and staff pop in to welcome those just arriving, and members of our Life Enrichment Team interview new residents to identify hobbies and interests and match them with activities on offer. Family are widely encouraged to spend time with their loved ones and join us for meals and events such as our monthly buffet brunches.

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

At Amica Little Lake, Residents benefit from a flexible, age-in-place approach that minimizes disruption as needs evolve. Care can be brought to residents throughout the building, allowing them to remain in their suite longer, apart from transitions into our secured Memory Care program when required. As needs change, our team reassesses and adjusts services to support comfort, safety, and independence. When a move is appropriate, we guide residents and families through each step with care, clarity, and a focus on maintaining comfort and familiarity.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

At The Roxborough, residents can continue living comfortably even as their needs evolve. The residence offers independent living with supportive services that can be added as required, including personal assistance and wellness support. Access to professional healthcare services and respite options allows care to increase in a coordinated way, while residents remain in the familiar surroundings of their suite and community.

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

At Amica Little Lake, we may not be the best fit for those seeking an institutional style of living, as our focus is on premium services and lifestyle. Our community is designed for those who value engagement, hospitality, and social connection, and may not appeal to someone seeking a highly private, hands-off experience. That said, within those parameters, we welcome Residents from all walks of life as we are an extremely inclusive environment which offers social and health supports for all.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

The Roxborough is best suited to seniors who value independent living within a supportive and socially engaged community. Someone who requires highly specialized or intensive medical care in a clinical environment may find a different type of setting more appropriate. We support independence while providing thoughtful assistance when it is needed.

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

At Amica Little Lake, many Residents are pleasantly surprised by how vibrant and flexible daily life feels compared to their expectations of retirement living. The all-day dining experience, where residents choose when and where to eat, often stands out, along with the quality of food and social atmosphere. Families are also surprised by how quickly residents form meaningful friendships, supported by an engaged community and welcoming Resident council. The level of personalized care and attention - combined with a warm, hospitality-driven environment - often exceeds expectations, helping residents feel more independent, connected, and at home than they anticipated. Last but certainly not least - the INCREDIBLE views of Little Lake.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Residents are often surprised by the strong sense of community, where friendships develop naturally through shared meals, activities, and daily routines. Families often comment on how well staff know residents and their visitors, and how attentive and responsive the team is in everyday interactions. The combination of warm relationships and an active lifestyle tends to stand out quickly to those experiencing the residence for the first time.

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

At Amica Little Lake, our focus over the next five years is to continue to deepen the personalized, hospitality-driven experience that defines our Residence. We will continue to evolve our programs, dining, and care services to reflect the changing expectations of today’s seniors, with greater emphasis on wellness, flexibility, and meaningful engagement. Enhancements in technology and care delivery will support more tailored experiences, while strengthening connections between Residents, families, and our team. We actively welcome resident feedback - especially from new Residents - to continuously refine and enhance our offerings, ensuring the community grows in step with those who call it home.

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

In the years ahead, The Roxborough will continue building on its focus on resident wellbeing and an engaging retirement lifestyle. Programming, services, and amenities will evolve with residents’ interests and needs, while the community continues to emphasize attentive service, meaningful activities, and a comfortable environment where residents enjoy their independence.

AMICA LITTLE LAKE

At Amica Little Lake:

1) Age-in-place living with independent, assisted, and memory care, with wellness services offered throughout the building, including our secured memory care program should care evolve to that need. Independent Living one and two bedroom suites also include in-suite washer/dryers

2) All-day, open-seating dining from 7am–7pm for full flexibility and social connection

3) Prime lakeside setting in Barrie, offering scenic views and a calm, natural environment

4) Life Enrichment leaders include trained physiotherapists, supporting active wellness

5) Weekly on-site Physician (accepting Residents), plus a team experienced in Palliative Care

THE ROXBOROUGH RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

• Located in Newmarket, close to Southlake Regional Health Centre and local amenities.
• Offers independent living with supportive services available when needed.
• Provides short-term respite stays and flexible support options.
• Part of the Verve Senior Living family of retirement communities.
• Known for a welcoming environment, attentive staff, and an active community lifestyle.