A COMFORT LIFE REPORT:
VIVA Thornhill Woods vs. Four Elms Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

Thornhill Woods is ideal for seniors who have family in Vaughan, Richmond Hill, and Markham, and who want to improve their health and their happiness by living in a high quality environment, with excellent care. The hallmark of life here is the spacious suites and excellent dining, but the good living goes well beyond those features. For starters, there are movie nights in the onsite theatre, an onsite pub, and a café, all part of a thriving community where seniors get the companionship and care they deserve.

FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Four Elms should be on your list of Thornhill area retirement homes, if you're looking for a combination of elegant surroundings and exceptional breadth of care. In a peaceful neighbourhood near Steeles and Dufferin, it takes Verve Senior Living's model of quality senior living, and combines that with a continuous care model, from independent living to memory care. You’ll never need to move if your care needs increase and couples with varying needs (especially where one partner has dementia) stay together in one place.

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

Our team member Denise visited Viva Thornhill Woods and was very happy to see an elegant community with warm and friendly staff to greet you. The lounge area invites you to grab a drink, sit down, and listen to the piano.

I recently visited a friend here. I was very impressed by every person on the staff whom I met. Each person was genuinely caring and professional. I enjoyed a lovely lunch served by attentive and friendly dining room staff. The food was delicious (especially the home-made soup) and so beautifully presented that I took a picture.

A couple of months ago my mom came to visit us for a month. We chose to host her at Viva since the facility was much more convenient and prepared for her (no stairs and no bathtub to climb). She not only enjoyed her stay and welcomed us with coffee in every opportunity we picked her up, but also made good friends who invited her to seat with them for lunch or dinner, even though she spoke little English. She enjoyed very much the food, the musical events and the quiet of her spacious room. We all enjoyed the swimming pool with her and felt welcome all the time.

V!VA is a first-class retirement community, supported by a first-class team. In particular, Wendy T, who serves as the Community Relations Manager, is exceptional and has helped make the transition for my parents into the community both a seamless and positive one. Thank you, V!VA, for taking such good care of my mom and dad!

Wendy Teperman, Community Relations Manager at Viva Thornhill Woods Retirement Resident is a beacon of warmth and support. Her unwavering dedication and genuine compassion supported my mother’s first step into the Viva Life! Our tour was so welcoming and a genuine opportunity to see what life would be like living at Viva Thornhill Woods. Wendy embodies the epitome of exceptional service and genuine care. Mom has now comfortably settled into the Viva Life, where she enjoys daily warm greetings, forming new friendships, embraces fresh opportunities, and receives daily support from Wendy, coupled with the remarkable care and friendliness of the staff.

Life at VIVA Thornhill Woods is truly great! It's their philosophy… As a matter of fact, when you call, the first words out of the concierge are "Thank you for calling VIVA Thornhill Woods. How can I make your day great?” They truly strive to do this for their residents and their families. My mom likes participating in the activities. She really looks forward to going on outings and shopping ... Read more

Ellyn Rubin, daughter of resident

FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

After comparing many retirement residences for my parents, Four Elms was without question the best choice we found — the warmest, most welcoming, and the best value by far. Since my parents moved in, they have been incredibly happy with every aspect of their experience, from the delicious food and engaging activities to the friendly residents and genuinely caring staff. They wish that they had moved there years ago! The atmosphere is modern and inviting, and their apartment is beautiful and spacious. A very special mention goes to Shayna List, who truly held our hands through the entire process from beginning to end. She knew exactly how to support my mother, who was very trepidatious about the move, and did so with exceptional warmth, patience, and compassion. I can’t recommend Four Elms highly enough to anyone looking for a retirement residence. It has given our family real peace of mind.

I wanted to personally thank the staff at Four Elms in Dufferin and Steeles. In particular, Ms. Tashi Lhanzey and Ms. Shayna List. They played a pivotal role in my family, moving my dad, Noshir Mistry, to this location from another retirement residence. The location is great, with lots of activities and encouragement from the staff. Dad is in an assisted living suite and has adjusted very quickly to the new environment. I would definitely recommend exploring this location before deciding on moving family members to a retirement home.

My mother decided to go to the assisted living floor as she knew she needed more assistance. I was a caregiver for her for 2 years. The care from all the PSWs was amazing to the point that these have become her friends. She is much more active, helps getting dressed everyday, and looks so forward to the activities. She has really excelled in terms of the activity and her will to keep going. She hardly watches TV anymore as she has purpose. It's like being on a cruise ship daily...lol. I am so impressed by the care each person has. They work so hard there because it is their passion and all have so much patience. Takes special people to be caregivers. And for my personal well-being, it is a comfort to know she is being looked after and content and happy. It really does free up my time as I can visit less and know she is taken care of. Makes a big difference and gives peace of mind. Remember that senior residence is 2 fold. Care for the resident and comfort for the children of them.

I recently stayed at Four Elms as a respite. My overall stay was that of being on a cruise ship on land! The staff was very accommodating and very pleasant. The food was delicious and nutritious. The activities and entertainment were enjoyable. We even enjoyed happy hour with wine and a treat a couple of times a week. We were kept busy with games, etc. I loved this place. It’s not if I will return… but when.

My mom moved into assisted living at Four Elms in her mid-90's, having always lived independently in her own home. The attentive care and tremendous kindness she received at Four Elms, from the very first day she arrived, was second to none. Mom loved her suite, the courtyard, the meals, and ALL of the staff, from the receptionists, nurses, and PSWs to the maintenance workers. As her daughter, who was on-site multiple times throughout every week, I cannot recommend Four Elms highly enough in terms of services, support, and genuine kindness. This residence is a clean, safe, and well-managed environment with responsive and caring staff.

Gilda, resident

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

Discover premier retirement living at V!VA Thornhill Woods, where warmth, comfort, and community come together. Located in the heart of Vaughan, our vibrant residence offers a welcoming environment designed to support your lifestyle—whether you’re seeking the freedom of independent living or the peace of mind that comes with assisted living. Residents enjoy spacious, modern suites, chef-prepared meals, engaging daily programs, and exceptional amenities including a fitness studio, indoor heated salt water pool, theatre, and salon. With personalized wellness support, a dedicated team of caring professionals, and a community that feels like family, life at V!VA Thornhill Woods is about more than just living—it’s about thriving.

FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Surrounded by a peaceful neighbourhood in Thornhill, you'll enjoy luxurious elegant surroundings, Chef inspired dining options and excellent views of the city from the balcony of your spacious suite. You can choose to participate in an extensive array of lifestyle activities and exercise programs and our experienced staff will meet with you to create a personalized plan to ensure your health and wellness needs are met. Four Elms Retirement Residence - the ideal place for Inspired Senior Living! 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.

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

Discover a retirement community that redefines senior living at V!VA Thornhill Woods. What sets us apart? Start with our luxurious Heated Saltwater Pool, perfect for both relaxation and rejuvenation. Savor exceptional flavors at Perks! Café, or indulge in our V!VAlicious Dining options featuring fresh, chef-prepared meals crafted with care. Enjoy the warmth and vibrancy of our bright, spacious common areas, designed to foster connection and comfort, as well as our thoughtfully designed resident suites that make you feel right at home.

FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

We have amazing activities to keep all our residents actively engaged along with special outings to the beach, casinos, bowling, golfing and more. We celebrate all special holidays. Resident monthly suggestions and feedback are welcomed and implemented when creating monthly calendars. Food is an important part of the experience, therefore we support food committees run by our residents.

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

At V!VA Thornhill Woods Retirement Community, we’re committed to making your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our dedicated Move-In Coordinator works closely with you every step of the way, offering personalized guidance to help you settle into your new home. To simplify the process, we connect you with trusted resources, including professional downsizing companies to help organize and streamline your belongings, as well as junk removal services to take care of any unnecessary clutter. From move-in day to building a new routine, we’re here to ensure you feel at home from the moment you arrive.

FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

New residents are supported for the first few weeks with a Four Elms Ambassador and all staff helping them with direction to programs and meals until we see they are comfortable on their own. We also have a detailed onboarding program in which all department managers personally visit and introduce ourselves to all new seniors moving in.

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

At V!VA Thornhill Woods Retirement Community, we understand that needs can evolve over time, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If a resident’s care requirements change, we provide a seamless transition to ensure they continue to thrive. For those moving from Independent Living to Assisted Living, we offer enhanced care services tailored to their unique needs while allowing them to stay in a familiar and comforting environment. Should a higher level of support be required, we work closely with families and residents to facilitate a move to Long-Term Care, ensuring a smooth and compassionate process.

FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

As residents’ needs evolve, Four Elms offers additional levels of support, including independent supportive living, assisted living and memory care. Nursing staff, PSWs, and wellness professionals provide personalized assistance while helping residents remain comfortable in familiar surroundings. The goal is to adjust care gradually and seamlessly with residents’ current lifestyle, so they continue enjoying the programs, dining, and friendships that make daily life meaningful.

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

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FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

We may not be the best fit for someone seeking a quiet or minimalist lifestyle. Four Elms is best suited to seniors who like a lively social life, vibrant programs, shared dining, and opportunities to connect with others. Residents enjoy the lively community where activities, friendships, and engagement are a big part of everyday life.

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

A family friendly and very active community with daily activity programming throughout the year.

FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Our amazing Legends Café that is the place to be! A wonderful space that offers wonderful snacks, fruit, coffee, and more 24/7. You will find after lunch it is where many gather for great conversation.

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

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FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

In the coming years, we’ll continue building on the strengths residents value most: attentive care, engaging programs, and a welcoming community atmosphere. We focus on enhancing wellness services, expanding lifestyle programming, and ensuring residents have the support they need as they age. We’ll always be improving while preserving the warm, caring environment that residents and families appreciate.

VIVA THORNHILL WOODS

The V!VA Advantage Program: The Happier Here Guarantee

Health and wellness and 24/7 medical support

Lifestyles team utilizes Welbi Platformed to design personalized programs for enhanced Life Enrichment

Move-In Support: Dedicated resources such as a Move-In Coordinator

Jewish style cuisine with kosher meats, separate or meat and dairy, and no shellfish or pork served

FOUR ELMS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

1. We are walking distance to all shops, such as Winners, Dollarama, Shoppers and Canadian Superstore.
2. Restaurants within walking distance, along with Parks and Dufferin Clarke Community Senior Centre.
3. We have an amazing courtyard that is used for entertainment, BBQ and just plain relaxing in the summer. It's been known to have an ice cream truck or 2 stop by.
4. Legends Cafe is a hopping social venue
5. Movie talks and matinees are each week run by residents for the residents.