More of what people say about this community
We've collected reviews and testimonials from around the web that are relevant to you: those from residents and their loved ones.
Janet, visitor or friend
Nice and clean. Great activities.
Janey M Clinton, visitor or friend
My daughters and their friends had the pleasure of performing for the residents. This was my first time in the home, and it was truly wonderful to see the interaction of the staff and the residents. Mary Rafter was instrumental in helping set up the performance. We know Mary from my kids' days at St. Agatha's, as she was a staple at the school, setting up programs for the students. It is nice to see that she has stayed in the community and is now supporting the elderly community with her creativity and programs. The residence itself looked very welcoming and homey!
Louise Pang, family member
My mother-in-law had a great time staying at McCowan Retirement Residence. She enjoyed all the recreational activities, including bingo, Christmas sing-along, colouring, and crafts. All the staff were very helpful and attentive to her needs. Although she had a short stay, I can tell she enjoyed this residence!
Lida Punzalan, family member
This place exceeded our expectations in every way. From the friendly and helpful staff to the knowledgeable and attentive caregivers, our experience was nothing short of exceptional, and we are grateful. Our mom's rehab stay was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication and expertise of the entire team. Sandy, her nurse, was a standout – caring, kind, knowledgeable, and professional. We're also grateful for the outstanding care provided by Gayatri, the physiotherapist, and the PSWs who supported our mom's recovery.
E P , family member
Thank you to the staff who are all nice and caring. Sandy, Geraldine, and Ana (to name a few) are great at their jobs, especially when taking care of my mom. I highly recommend this home.
Virginia Paulino, family member
Sandy and the staff took good care of my mother-in-law when she was there for a short time. Very friendly and helpful staff.
John Chang-Sang, visitor or friend
It’s a wonderful place for Seniors to enjoy their golden years with lively entertainment and lots of activities to keep all busy.
Mark Hiegel, family member
Fantastic care for my grandmother by the wonderful staff at McCowan Retirement Residence. Their attention to detail, as well as the personal touch they provide, assures our family that she is in great hands and has brought such joy into her life!
Arielle D., family member
The staff at McCowan are wonderful and caring. My grandmother was at another facility, but since moving to McCowan, she is much happier and spends much less time in her room. The recreation staff are excellent. They really go the extra mile to support her specific needs. They pay attention to her individual personality to get her involved and to keep her enthusiastically engaged, which is priceless!
The facilities are in good shape. I have looked at many of them around the Scarborough and North York area. McCowan is very clean, and everything is brand new. They continue to work to expand and update. There are a lot of little accessible details in the building so she can get around more easily in a wheelchair, like in and out of her room, in the bathroom, etc. It's a big improvement!
Karina, visitor or friend
My students and I enjoyed singing and visiting with the residents at McCowan Retirement Residence. You can tell the staff truly care about the residents, and they plan daily activities involving the community. It is a lovely, clean, and welcoming environment.
Chantel, visitor or friend
Such an amazing and welcoming environment! The space feels like home, and you can see that every resident loves it!
Great people and staff supporting to make the atmosphere even better!
Dhakaram Bhandari, staff member or volunteer
Throughout the past four months as a student, I have learnt a lot, particularly concerning person-centred planning and positive behaviour support. The residents who live here are so lovely, and I have so much enjoyed my time with them. It is a great place, particularly post the renovations, and it has been a wonderful experience being a part of the team and learning as much as possible. Its a great learning journey for me to be a part of Metta.
Rhonda Hutchings, family member
Placing my father in a retirement home was a decision our family did not take lightly, but we could not be happier with the choice we made. From the moment we first reached out to McCowan Retirement Residence, we felt a genuine sense of care, professionalism, and warmth from the entire staff.
The team has gone above and beyond to make my father feel comfortable, respected, and engaged. He’s made new friends, participates in daily activities, and has regained a sense of independence while still receiving the support he needs.
The facility is welcoming and thoughtfully designed with new renovations to make residents feel at home. Communication with the staff has been excellent as they keep us updated, listen to our concerns, and treat my father with the dignity he deserves.
Our family has complete peace of mind knowing he is safe, happy, and well-cared for. Choosing this retirement home has been one of the best decisions for our family, and we are sincerely grateful for the compassionate environment they provide.
John Brighton, family member
Feeling so grateful for the amazing care my mom is receiving at McCowan Retirement Residence. The staff treat her like family—always attentive, kind, and genuinely caring. It’s such a relief knowing she’s in a place where she feels safe, comfortable, and valued.
Samantha Doherty, staff member or volunteer
I was fortunate enough to do my first student placement here, and my biggest takeaway from this home is the people. Every single person has a smile on their face right when you walk through the door. All the residents are friendly and enjoy all the amazing daily activities that are planned for them. Mary and her department do an amazing job of creating activities for all the holidays!! I can’t say enough amazing things!
David, family member
This place has been great. My mother is very happy to be there. I find the staff is always very helpful, pleasant, and kind. The residence is spotless, and they’re always there to help the residents in any way possible. It is everything that we were looking for to accommodate our mother.
Desmond Changsang, resident
I have been a resident here for over a year now. I’ve been very, very occupied and busy with all the activities and entertainers. The entire community. especially the staff. are friendly and kind. I love my living space and the food is delicious!
Carol Milovanovic, family member
My family found a forever home for our treasured mom. We found a gem in the jewelry box of private retirement homes just as the pandemic hit in 2020. Mom never planned to leave her 2-story home, so we knew we had to choose the right fit. MRR is it! A lovely, comfortable suit with all the amenities, kept clean by service staff. Her meals are delicious, that are considered with her few food allergies. Her personal care was attended to daily. Mom enjoys competition, playing Scrabble, and Jeopardy with other retirement homes. The entertainment and activities are planned for the enjoyment of the residents. It's perfect for our mom and peace of mind for her family.
Hanaa Ahmedin, visitor or friend
I visited as part of a project for Centennial College, and it was such a wonderful experience! The place feels warm, comfortable, and truly like home for the seniors. The staff are amazing — so kind, caring, and full of positive energy.
A special thanks to Lesley Paulino for being so friendly and helpful! My visit was short but really heartwarming. One of the best senior care places I’ve seen.
Rhonda Bell, family member
My aunt has dementia, and she recently moved into a big, bright, renovated suite on the memory care floor. The staff work hard to make her happy and to keep her stimulated and secure. She was a very talented amateur painter, so they made an exhibit of some of her past creations and made her feel very special with this thoughtful recognition. The building is clean and well-maintained. My late mother lived on the memory care floor about 10 years ago, and that was a good experience too. I'm very grateful that the staff are so kind, communicative, and responsive.
Ann Keating, family member
It’s the people who make a difference at McCowan. They got to know my Ralph, they put up with his quirks, they gave him ice cream when he asked too many times, and they were understanding even through his short-tempered moments. They got to know him, cared for him, and loved him when I could not. They gave Free hugs, too. ... The staff at McCowan are all heart, and they give their best. Your loved one is in good hands there.
Jim Richardson, resident
I have been a resident here at McCowan Retirement for almost 3 months, and I appreciate the meals and the variation provided. The home is very clean, well-maintained, and renovations have significantly improved the home. I very much enjoy the variation of activities offered. There's something for everyone to do! We recently had a great game of noodle hockey against the staff, and it brought out the competitive spirit in everyone who played! It was like a nostalgic game of road hockey!
Name withheld for privacy's sake, staff member or volunteer
Volunteering to run art workshops here as a student has been so fulfilling for me because of the amazing residents who show so much enthusiasm to participate in youth-led activities! I also have a deep respect for the staff members who help organize the room with the proper supplies and ensure that residents are notified and excited about our monthly workshops. From the moment we reached out to Mary, she has been so kind, going above and beyond to make sure we felt comfortable and that all the visions we had for our intergenerational art workshops could be manifested into reality. I’m so grateful that I have the opportunity to work with the lovely staff and all the other volunteers at McCowan because it truly is a welcoming atmosphere that inspires community and compassion.
Frances Nicdao, visitor or friend
It's my pleasure to say that McCowan is an incredibly caring and welcoming place! As the co-president of a nonprofit student organization, my team and I have been working with McCowan for months, and it is always a joy to visit! Everyone on the staff is highly compassionate and friendly, while also having clear dedication, responsibility, and attentiveness. I can tell that they are able to form personal connections with all the residents, as McCowan feels like a true community with fostered warmth and friendship! It's plain to see that everyone is happy to be there, including myself. It really can't be emphasized enough how kind everyone is!
Moreover, the staff are incredibly supportive of the residents and their talents!! We've hosted small art galleries for some of the talented artists at McCowan, giving some residents the chance to display their amazing artworks to their friends, family, staff, and others! Everyone is encouraging and supportive, always finding joy in the pieces. I think it's great that McCowan fosters recreational activities like these, as creativity is undoubtedly a great way to improve mental health and get the community together!
Aside from the amazing people at McCowan, the space itself is clean, safe, and well-designed! It's a pretty place to be, with nice lighting, furniture, and decorations! The staff also ensures that our event space is wonderfully set up, going the extra mile to prepare any necessary materials for us as well.
Katy Draper, family member
I would like to thank McCowan Retirement and their team for taking the best care of my nonna. It means so much to me to see the community that was made. From day one, my nonna was a part of it, and I'm forever grateful for that. You all made her feel safe, special, and at home.
Laurie Clayton, family member
My mother has been at McCowan Retirement residence for 2 years now. She loves it, says it's the best years of her life!
Staff is very accommodating, the entertainment is awesome, and when my mom was sick the nursing care was excellent.
They have been renovating, so the place looks brand new now.
We were nervous about having my mom move to a home, but we couldn't be happier with how it turned out. She's well taken care of, which gives our family peace of mind. Would definitely recommend!
Sara Abdul Hamid, staff member or volunteer
I had the pleasure of completing my lifestyle student placement at McCowan Retirement Residence from January to April, and it was a truly rewarding experience. The facility is clean, well-organized, and provides a warm, welcoming environment that feels like home.
The staff were incredibly supportive, friendly, and always willing to share their knowledge. I had the opportunity to be involved in the daily activities, which allowed me to learn and contribute in meaningful ways. I’m especially grateful for the kindness and engagement of the residents; each interaction added so much to my experience.
I’m thankful for the chance to be part of such a compassionate and respectful community. McCowan Retirement Residence clearly values the well-being of its residents and creates an environment where everyone feels cared for and connected.✨️
Shabika, staff member or volunteer
I did my placement at McCowan Retirement Residence, and it was truly such an amazing experience! I can’t say enough good things about McCowan Retirement Residence – Metta Lifestyles. The staff here are truly compassionate, attentive, and always go above and beyond to ensure residents feel cared for and respected. The environment is warm, welcoming, and feels like a real community, and the newly renovated rooms are so resident-friendly and just a beautiful space for activities and for the residents to spend their free time with family or even alone.
From the cleanliness of the space to the quality of the meals and activities provided, everything is thoughtfully designed to support the well-being and happiness of the residents. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing firsthand how dedicated the team is to creating a safe and enriching home for the seniors.
Rabi Alam, visitor or friend
I’ve been very blessed to know a few of the staff at McCowan Retirement Residence. They’re truly wonderful people and part of our neighbourhood. We always do our best to support local businesses, and with an aging population, the need for retirement homes has been growing. I’m confident that McCowan Retirement Residence is one of the best, where everyone feels right at home.
Marianne Joy Aboliso, staff member or volunteer
During my placement at McCowan Retirement Residence as a lifestyle student, I had such a valuable and heartwarming experience. Right from the start, the atmosphere felt friendly and inviting. The staff were outstanding — always compassionate, professional, and truly dedicated to making residents feel comfortable and cared for. Their genuine passion for their work really stood out in every interaction.
The residence itself is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully laid out to support the needs of seniors. There are cozy lounges, peaceful outdoor areas, and bright spaces for activities and socializing. I was able to assist with several wellness programs and saw how much joy and engagement they brought to the residents.
Overall, my time at McCowan was not only educational but also deeply rewarding. It gave me a better understanding of how a caring team and a well-designed space can make a big difference in promoting a happy, healthy lifestyle for older adults.
Tiffany Oettinger, family member
My mom has been living on the memory care floor at McCowan Residence for several years, and I can’t say enough good things about the care she receives. She has advanced Alzheimer’s, which can be incredibly challenging, but the entire team at McCowan handles it with patience, skill, and so much heart.
Her private room is bright, sunny, and beautifully maintained—it’s a comforting, peaceful space that really feels like hers. And what truly sets McCowan apart is how deeply the staff know and understand her. They don’t just care for her physically—they treat her with compassion, dignity, and genuine love, even on the hardest days.
A heartfelt thank you to Shane Ann, Chandi, Audrey, and Lori at the front desk—you are always so warm and helpful. The kindness and care go beyond just the nursing staff: the maintenance and cleaning teams are just as thoughtful and respectful, and the recreational therapy staff do a wonderful job engaging the residents and bringing joy to their days.
It brings me such peace of mind to know my mom is in such a supportive and loving environment. McCowan Residence is truly a special place, and I’m endlessly grateful for everyone there.
Rob Matsumura, family member
My Dad has been a resident for 6 wonderful years and still going strong at 96 years of age! The entire staff is attentive, caring, supportive and compassionate! They completely take care of him when he’s feeling a little under the weather to helping him log back into the internet! The facility has been recently renovated and it looks great! He throughly enjoys being a resident of McCowan Retirement and my family is grateful that he is happy, well cared for and safe!
Dulce Klyne, resident
I’m a resident here and have been for 9 months. I have to say the staff make such a big difference in my life while living here. I enjoy the programs and especially love the non-denominational church service with Pastor Dereck. We have a monthly service, and his piano player comes in too to play hymns for our residents. They take time to speak with us, and we enjoy having him come in every month. I am looking forward to the summer months to enjoy our beautiful garden, where we have lots of social programs and BBQs to enjoy. I am grateful to be living here at McCowan retirement and have made many friends as well. I highly recommend McCowan as a place to live.
S. Dickinson, family member
My mother was a resident 2016-2025. The care she received was beyond caring and compassionate. Lovely residence with tremendous staff. Newly renovated with stunning 1st floor and common areas.
Greig Black, family member
I can't say enough good things about McCowan Retirement Residence! From the moment my mother moved into her studio apartment, she was greeted with warmth and care, and it was clear that the staff truly prioritized knowing their residents and making them feel welcomed and valued. Adjusting to life after stroke comes with a lot of new challenges and care needs, and to that end, the entire team at MRR is skilled, attentive, and compassionate. Not to be overlooked, the residence offers a tasty and diverse rotating menu in their dining room. The dining room and other common areas in the building, many of which have been recently renovated, are warm and inviting, and almost homey. And how about entertainment and activities? Choirs, musicians, cultural talks and displays, holiday celebrations, singers, magicians, and more are regularly planned for the residents, who are all encouraged and supported to attend. I am so grateful for the care and the environment the entire staff at MRR provides. Highly recommend McCowan Retirement Residence to anyone seeking a warm and nurturing place for their loved ones!
Martin Williams, visitor or friend
As I [toured] the facility ... Mary was so kind and treated all the residents with so much love and respect that when the time comes and you have to make the tough decision on where your loved one must go to spend their days a little closer to doctors and some additional help they need I would have no problem recommending this just based on the experience I had briefly speaking with some of their staff!
Jennifer Humphrey, family member
My mom is happier than she has been in a long time. She is really enjoying socializing with the staff and her peers. I am so happy she feels engaged and supported.
Tracey Flood, family member
My mother-in-law was at McCowan RR for five years. The staff were wonderful and she was very well cared for. The food and programs were great. It is a beautiful facility and is very clean. I have recommended this residence to several people for their parents.
Robert Joseph Massie, resident
My experience is a very positive one. The staff is caring and professional. They phone me if I am late for meals to see if I am OK. The leaders in activity programs are wonderful and try their best to have everyone successful. After my operations, the nursing staff was always checking the healing process of the incisions. The waitress staff is knowledgeable and do their best to serve the food I require.
The program with students from colleges is well supervised and is a treat to talk and interact with us residents. My medications are always given to me at the right times. I have been able to put up family photos on my walls to make my room more like my old home. Your room is your home and can be locked for safety. Activity leaders bring in special entertainment every month to celebrate birthdays. My Favourite was the Accordion Band from Branch 11 of the Royal Canadian Legion. I have enjoyed talking to other residents. Everyone has a STORY! We all come from a great population of building our great Canadian Country!
Helen Korovesis, family member
My mom has been at MRR since June 2018. All the staff is great. Maria and Lori greet you when you arrive. Mary in Recreation has a great staff. She is very creative, and the residents are engaged in many programs all day. Whether it's doing crafts, live entertainment or the students that come there from the public school that entertain the Residents at Christmas, singing carols.
They keep the residents stimulated all day. The students are so kind and thoughtful with the residents.
Henry Hendriks, family member
I would like to thank the staff at McCowan Retirement Residence for the special care that they provide for my mother. She has dementia, and they provide special care to ensure her safety, health, and comfort at all times. In particular, she is included in all activities, functions, group get-togethers, celebration of special occasions, and taking her to mass or outdoor trips to the garden as appropriate. I am thankful that McCowan provides me with a Skype session with my mother for 15 minutes on a weekly basis. This is important to me as it is a 4-hour commute to visit McCowan. Thank you for all that you do.
Robert Twiner, resident
Home, it's not just a place, it's the feeling of belonging. Its how the residents of McCowan feel, at home. Its the extra care, special events, the new friendships, and the bonds that make this such a kindred place. The beautiful butterfly program is a can't miss. The joy, pride, and love that the residents share, watching their chrysalis grow and turn into butterflies. Giving them stories to share with their family and friends. The return to nature, the peace and satisfaction of watching life form. Finally, to see the faces, the smiles of the residents with the butterfly sitting on their finger, before they wish them well on their journey. Honestly, it's all so touching. I love this program, it's so special. All thanks to the team that goes the extra mile to ensure that this happens, thank you!
Annemarie Lee, family member
Navigating the difficult process of finding a retirement community for your loved one is a difficult and emotional experience. Mary and the staff at McCowan Rd have been exceptionally patient and supportive of our family over the past year. The atmosphere is warm and caring, and there are daily activities designed for every resident in mind. McCowan Rd retirement community is truly a wonderful place!
Wendy Veale, family member
My mother-in-law has been a resident for quite some time. I'm amazed at how the staff create so many therapeutic yet fun events. They also bring in entertainment on occasion. It's so wonderful to see how kind, thoughtful and caring they are with the residents. They have a Facebook page where my husband and I get to really feel the great care and genuine kindness McCowan has with every senior. They address each resident as a unique and special individual. Couldn't be more pleased! They have more excitement and unique agendas than my husband and I have at 65! 5***** to the establishment and staff!
Colleen Wnuk, family member
We are still in the process of moving my mother and sister to McCowan Retirement Residence. That being said, we could not be happier with the suites, the common areas and more importantly the staff. Mary has kept an open dialogue with us and answers each one of our questions thoroughly and professionally. Such a welcoming and vibrant home! Thank you Mary!
Michelle Linnane, family member
I am incredibly grateful for the wonderful experience my loved one has had at McCowan Retirement Residence. The recent renovations have truly transformed the residence, bringing a fresh and modern feel that has instilled a sense of pride in the residents. It's heartwarming to see how excited they are to show off their beautiful home when family and friends visit.
A special shout-out to the warmest and most caring Lifestyles Manager, Ms. Mary McIntyre. Her genuine care and concern for the residents seem effortless, but have a lasting impact on their well-being. Ms. McIntyre's dedication and kindness make McCowan Retirement Residence a truly special place. Thank you for all that you do!
Kelly Twiner, family member
The staff at McCowan Retirement Residence is what makes it such a special place to live. Especially the recreational coordinator and her team. They go out of their way to plan engaging, exciting events for residents. Mary treats everyone like she would her parents or grandparents- with so much love, respect, compassion, dignity, and grace. The same can be said about all of the staff in here. Through the hard Covid years they did everything humanly possible to make it a manageable experience. This is such a lovely place filled with positivity and warmth.
Katherine Evans, family member
My mom has lived at MMR for almost 12 years. The staff is incredibly kind & caring. They have assisted me in navigating public health supports that have allowed her to age in place. The activation program and social activities have ensured that Mom enjoys each and every day. I appreciate the peace of mind I've experienced because of the staff's attention to my mom's needs.
Nadine Bloomfield, family member
We have been so impressed by the McCowan! When we toured the facility, we ran into the son of one of the residents. He said his mother was back to “life”, engaged and part of the world through the abundant programs. I’m familiar with various facilities professionally but also through my own personal experience with loved ones. This place came recommended by a friend and has exceeded expectations. PSWs are kind and seem genuinely caring. It has a very small community vibe which is unusual. The food, cleanliness, and overall attention are stellar. But truly, the biggest component of what makes this facility such a stand-out is the team run by Mary, who oversees the programs. From concerts to crafts to food making, it’s just stupendous. We never thought we would see our Maureen (97 with moderate Alzheimer’s) crafting and actually up and DANCING! She’s smiling and participating. She tells us she’s tired from full days- it’s been actual years since she said this. If you are lucky enough to find a space here, consider yourself lucky. Your loved ones will be in very good hands. Thanks team!
Cathy Sheppard, family member
The staff at McCowan Ret Residence are all so caring and professional. They go above and beyond to keep our loved ones safe and happy. Thank you to all the amazing staff at McCowan for taking care of my aunt these past five years.
Debra Williams, family member
Mom has been living at the McCowan on Memory Lane for 7 years now and just loves her nice, clean studio suite!
The wonderful staff are very kind, caring, compassionate, patient, and attentive to the needs of residents and their families.
Residents are kept busy and entertained with creative and fun activities and live entertainment too...families are always invited to attend. Meals and snacks are always delicious and nutritious! Any concerns are easily communicated and handled promptly, with the helpful staff going above and beyond. This brings great peace of mind knowing that Mom is happy living there and is well taken care of...we couldn't have chosen a better home for her!
Teresa Forrest, family member
Thank you to all the wonderful staff at McCowan Retirement Residence. It is such a comfort knowing our loved ones are so well cared for and stimulated on a daily basis. Your efforts to keep everyone entertained and engaged are deeply appreciated.
Larry, family member
My mom has been at McCowen Retirement Residence for over 4 years. They have a great staff that is always looking out for her. They have lots of different activities for the residents. Mom also loves the meals they serve.
They have done lots of recent renovations to update and improve the residence and make it more modern.
Yolanda Hindle, family member
A Gem in the heart of Scarbrough - the McCowan Retirement residence has become home to our Mom for over five years. Mom needed a place for ‘respite care’ due to emergency home renovations. She is happy and thriving at almost 102 years of age. During this time we have seen 2 ownership changes, we’ve gone through COVID, and over the past 2 1/2 years, MRR has almost completed renovations to much-needed living space for our loved ones...
The front desk and foyer look amazingly welcoming and have been opened up with beautiful bright tiled floors, carpet inlays, and freshly painted walls. This has provided more space for activities to take place in bright new rooms. Despite the very long time for completion, the one thing that has remained constant is the undying love and caring attitude of the MRR staff. You’ll see and feel this, from the Program manager and staff to the wonderful, helpful Receptionists at the front desk, the Office Managers, and the Nursing staff. The programs department provides activities like I’ve never seen before. Each day there are lists of activities to do. They celebrate the diversity in our wonderful mosaic of Canadians, host monthly birthday parties, facilitate religious services and mind games to keep the resident’s minds active and engaged, and they will call on a resident if they are missing from an activity. During the long dark days of COVID lockdown, they facilitated FaceTime calls with our loved ones.
One only has to visit their ‘Facebook’ page to see proof of all that is done for our Mom and loved ones. You can see the joy in people’s faces and certainly feel it when you enter the doors.
I believe that these caring, loving attitudes are attributed to the longevity of the many staff members in all departments. They have set wonderful examples for all new staff and students who train there. They love what they are doing and care very much about helping others. I would not hesitate to recommend MRR.
Donald Quinlan, family member
I have a wonderful wife who needs Memory Care. I have been very pleased to see her care and experience at McCowan Retirement Residences. I am so happy with the care that she is receiving. The patience, expertise, affection, and energy have enriched her life!
Since I am retired, I have been able to visit 4-5 times a week. I am pleased with the programming and routines. There is laughter, fun, and splendid activities. My wife loves the concerts, parties, and numerous special events. She sings along, dances and applauds heartily! She is able to enjoy a rich, experiential life. I am able to do some of these activities with her and personally enjoy continuing her life journey with her. As my wife often proclaims during activities, “Bravo!”
Leslie McGhee, family member
My mom moved into McCowan just before COVID hit us and she was so excited with all the activities the friends she made and the amazing staff. We all struggled through COVID, including my mom and the staff. Let me tell you what troopers the staff were! They were so supportive! Such sad times when residents were stuck in their rooms with lockdown but we all persevered. Now on the positive... I take my mom out a lot. She is known as the walker LOL. The staff are the most pleasant people, always smiling. They will do anything for anyone. The new activities coordinator is creating new creative fun things for the residents, which is amazing! The best thing is my mom is happy and loves the staff. Everyone knows her.
Antonella Draper, family member
We cannot say enough good things about McCowan Retirement Residence! From the moment we entrusted them with my mother’s care, they have gone above and beyond to ensure her safety, comfort, and well-being. When she had a fall from her bed, the staff acted swiftly and responsibly, informing us right away and proactively suggesting a solution—a soft mat to minimize future risks. Their attention to detail and dedication to safety truly gave us peace of mind.
One of the greatest conveniences is that my mother doesn’t need to leave the home. The in-house doctor and nurses are skilled, compassionate, and attentive, providing excellent care without the stress of traveling.
The team also went the extra mile to help us identify the specific aids she needed for her mobility and daily activities. Their expertise and thoughtful recommendations have made a significant difference in her quality of life.
What truly sets them apart is their focus on creating an engaging and enjoyable environment. The staff organize wonderful events and daily activities that keep residents active, entertained, and connected with one another. From social gatherings to creative projects and senior exercises, there’s always something fun and meaningful happening. It’s clear that they value the mental and emotional well-being of their residents as much as their physical care.
The level of care, kindness, and professionalism they provide my mother is extraordinary. I wholeheartedly recommend this facility to anyone seeking exceptional care for their loved ones.
Thank you to the amazing team, I haven't seen her this happy and relaxed since forever!
Anne Marie McCowan, family member
I had the pleasure of meeting with Ray for a tour of McCowan Retirement Home. Ray was professional while presenting a kind and considerate approach in listening to the needs for my father's care. The people and general atmosphere at the home were warm and welcoming as Ray met and spoke by name to each and every person there. Mary Rafter was an engaged and enthusiastic member of the McCowan Home team who made me feel welcome. I would highly recommend the residence as a place to transfer from an independent life to an inviting community setting.
David Ing, family member
As we were considering retirement homes with memory care, we found Ray, the Community Relationship Specialist, to be genuinely concerned about helping families find the right place for their circumstances. One deciding factor was that my father has had a lifetime of eating rice everyday, and this home suits mostly Western diet. Ray said that for the cost of a rice cooker and a bag of rice, he would ensure that rice would be an option every day! Our family ultimately chose another retirement home, but McCowan Retirement Residence was at the top of our consideration set. The option of Metta Memory Lite partial assisted living level for those who are still mostly functional, with the possibility to move up one floor to the full Metta Memory fully-assisted living would make a transition easier for elders who are slowly declining in capabilities.
Joe Ryan, family member
Had a terrific tour of the facilities today with Ray Johnstone. A very nice residence with extensive infrastructure and services. Staff were all super friendly as well. Thanks Ray!
Sandra Allen, family member
My Dad moved in at the beginning of May. They were helpful before and during the move. The transition has been very smooth due to all the amazing staff. Meals are great. The entertainment and events are fantastic which makes him very happy in his new home.
Diana Boehm, family member
My dad moved into MRR in May. Since then everything has been beyond expectations. The food. The activities. The staff. All first rate. My dad says he has no complaints—which is high praise. Thank you to everyone at MRR for making him and our whole family feel so welcome and cared for.
Myint Zu, visitor or friend
I went here transferring from SHN hospital. As the youngest resident there, I was nervous when I first arrived. But from the moment I went through the door, they warmly welcomed me.
Oh Rebecca. She’s not just a general manager, she’s like my second mom to me. Always checking in, making sure I’m ok and going above and beyond to make sure I feel right at there. She treated me like her own kid. Not just Rebecca other staffs are also nice to me. They kept cheering me to recover.
I still remember my first night there. That night a PSW lady held my hands and prayed to god to recover fast once she saw me.
Thanks a lot for their care and support. Even tho those were tough days, I’ve got this incredible team behind me.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone there for making that journey a little brighter. You guys truly are the best
David Barron, family member
My mother, who has Alzheimer's, has lived there since August and the staff there is simply the best. They are so caring and patient. The Metta Memory programme provides residents with mental & social stimulation through activities such as fitness, arts & crafts, games and more. My mother was living alone after my father died, and he was worried about her mental decline. He'd be very happy (and I know he is) to know she is so well looked after. The staff spend so much time with the residents and they do not lack for anything. No one wants to see their loved one have to go to a long term care facility, but because it's MMR, I sleep soundly knowing she is so well looked after, just like Dad wanted.
MaryLou Gunn, family member
My sister has been a resident at McCowan Retirement Residence for over 2 years now. During this time, staff have been most helpful and responsive which has been so very helpful for me as I live an hour away. Recently one of the staff, Mary Mc was able to help my sister get her Netflix back on her TV so that she could watch her special program. Mary stayed with the task until she was able to make it work... It was so appreciated!
Carolyn Higgs, family member
My Father had Alzheimer's as well as COPD so he was on the 6th floor at McCowan Retirement Residence. The staff there was so good and kind with him and my Father loved the programs that they had. In particular the history program with the Titanic (he talked about that event for weeks after) and the Monarch Butterfly program which I have a treasured photo of my Dad holding a monarch butterfly. I know my Dad was happy there although I know it was tough at times. Many thanks to the program directors for putting their hearts and souls into the programs for the residents. They definitely make a difference in the lives of the residents.
Michelle Del Zotto, family member
I have been very pleased with the care of my aunt on the dementia floor. Mary and the activation team always make sure to include her in the events and activities that take place throughout the building.
Linda Gray, family member
In 2019, my Dad was 85 years old and living along in his apartment. He had some dementia but was otherwise active and healthy. He was determined that he would not move from his apartment. Then he had a brain injury from a fall and required surgery. He was sent to Providence to recover. We then made arrangements for him to spend a month at MRR. After the first month, we told him he could stay at MRR. He loved it. He loved the meals, the residents, the activities and the staff. He stayed for 4 happy years and it was home for him. It was a huge relief for me, especially during Covid, knowing that he was safe and well cared for. The staff at MRR are exceptional people in every way.
Mary Luck, family member
McCowan Retirement Residence was recommended by a friend. It did not disappoint. The staff were friendly, caring and quick to action. Reception Maria and Lori were so kind to the family and to Mom. PSWs had to deal with Mom's declining cognitive health and were very caring and understanding. The activities staff continued to try and include Mom. Staff were always supportive of the family. The Nursing staff were beyond helpful and helped us to understand what was needed for Mom's care and made recommendations. We always felt fortunate to have had mom at MRR.
Josef Bornbaum, family member
My sister and I had heard about MRR and its caring reputation. It’s fair to say that the team went beyond our expectations. The care and attentiveness given to our mother made us feel that mom was safe and well cared for. There is a very personal touch that surprised us.
Faye McWatt, family member
I took my mother into my home about 2.5 years ago. She was living on her own and I was delivering groceries and stopping in. I noticed she wasn't eating and just lying in the dark. She had been diagnosed with dementia about three years before. It was progressing slowly... I employed a part time caregiver to help me, but all mum really did at my house was watch t.v., eat, sleep and play with my dogs.
It became apparent this year that she needed more care. And I couldn't be around when we came out of the Pandemic. I returned to work in person - although not 5 days a week. It was a very stressful time being her caregiver, a mother and working full time.
My siblings would come and live at my house if I had to travel for work. They convinced me, and I could see, that I was not able to care for mum properly. We chose the McCowan Residence Metalite floor. Nothing with the City of Toronto was appropriate. I was offered 3 homes and turned them down.
We moved her in on October 1, 2023. She asked to go home. I had become like her parent and the whole experience was painfully difficult. After the first week, she said she loved her room, she was very busy, she did not want to come back to my place. She was surrounded by people.
My brother and I learned a big lesson. No matter the age, human beings need some self-determination. We will go into a good home when the time comes. Not many people want to be dependent. Mum certainly was very independent. She has that at McCowan residence and not at my home.
Yesterday, she told me that she is very busy and that I don't need to visit so often as I am busy. There is a lot of activity going on at the home. The staff is incredible. And even mum, with her dementia (or I should say short term memory loss because mum is very verbal, aware and pretty fit physically for a 90 year old), loves the staff at McCowan. I am relieved.
David I, family member
Wonderful place, very friendly, and always ready to assist . Mom always tells me how nice the people are and how happy she is there.
Dianna P, family member
In the Spring 2020, the best decision our family made at the request of our Mom was her move to McCowan Retirement Residence. As an active person already, her move to MRR enhanced her days with laughter, friendship and fantastic activities.
From the day our mom arrived, the MRR staff was so friendly and attentive with genuine warmth and care. They go above and beyond in all areas, and pay particular attention to residents personal interest like puzzles for our Mom which loves doing! The monthly sing along birthday party celebrations, wine and cheese events and weekly bingo sessions are examples of respectful planned events by the staff. It’s true peace of mind knowing that she is safe, well cared for and happy at MRR.
C Y C, family member
The place was a lifesaver for my grandpa. He was served 3 meals a day and was able to start walking with assistance again... Staff here are very friendly and we are very grateful for them.
Janet Desroches and Enid, family member
Mom was at McCowan for their rehab referral from SHN. The staff from the front desk, PSWs, nurses, kitchen and activities are exceptional both in their professional skills and wonderful friendly personalities. The meals were varied, good portions and looked delicious. Activities and amenities on site were well thought out. The medical care always dealt with any concerns promptly.
Debbie S, family member
One of the best decisions we have made was having our Mom move to McCowan Retirement Residence in the Metta Memory Lite Program. It has changed her days of isolation and loneliness to ones filled with laughter, friendship and true happiness.
From the moment Mom walked through the doors she was treated with kindness and made to feel welcome. The amazing staff are genuinely warm, respectful, fun and go above and beyond in all areas. The 24hr nursing staff are always available and helpful with any inquiries. The dining room is spotless and the food not only nutritious but delicious as well.
The programs are fabulous to say the least! When we visit Mom, she can usually be found participating in a sing-along, group crossword, crafting, birthday party, wine and cheese event or her all-time favorite bingo session.
The peace of mind we now have is immeasurable in knowing that she is safe, well cared for and happy.
Gail Dagg, family member
Over the last two years my Aunt has resided at MRR since September 2019. It was a hard transition for her but with the help of the staff she has come to like her new home. The staff at MRR are caring, friendly and are willing to assist at anytime. Any concerns are handled quickly and properly by the staff.
Clive Herbert, family member
My Mum has been at McCowan Retirement Residence for 18 months now. She regularly tells me how much she likes the place and that everyone is so kind and helpful. I am so pleased she is in a good place and I no longer worry about her not being happy.
Ken Matsumoto, family member
My Mom has been here at McCowan for a few years now and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. From the nurses to the administrative staff, they all genuinely care about their residences. Working at a retirement home requires an unbelievable amount of patience and caring and I'm amazed that everyone at McCowan seems to share this same philosophy. I would highly recommend!
Philomena, family member
My mom has been a resident of McCowan Retirement Residence for the past 5 years. She says she always feels safe at McCowan and appreciates that the staff are consistently kind and caring with her. She likes her suite because of the natural light and appreciates the maintenance staff’s efforts to keep her suite and the common areas clean. The McCowan team did an amazing job keeping the residents safe during COVID. My mom is grateful to the MRR staff for their deep commitment to the residents’ safety during this challenging time and this has been a great comfort to her family too. Like most things, the people are any organization’s most important asset and kindness is the stand out trait of the entire MRR team.
Doreen Pashkoff, family member
My Mother-In-Law is a resident at the McCowan Retirement Residence and she is very happy here. The staff are terrific and always willing to assist where they can and are extremely personable and kind. Our family feels very secure and comfortable with Mom living here.
John Alvarez, family member
My mother has been a resident of McCowan Retirement Residence for the past 3 years. She was reticent about leaving her long time home as she reached her mid-nineties. I can definitely say that the level of care from the dedicated staff and the creative, interesting activities that the Activity co-ordinators and Manager provide are second to none and keep her stimulated and happy. Its so convenient for her to have a doctor's visit there and to get her hair done to make her feel good. She has made many new friends which she celebrated her 99th Birthday with recently.
Dianne Freeman, family member
Our first experience with retirement residences was with McCowan. As soon as you walk through the front door, you are greeted with a smile. The warmth is palpable. The decor is charming and cozy, from the lobby, to the hallways and throughout the building.
In this wonderful setting there are so many fun ways for the residents to interact. Wine & cheese parties, monthly birthday celebrations and special events to mark all the holidays from Mardi Gras to Easter, Christmas and beyond.
The dining room is lovely and weekly menus are available to review. The food is good and plentiful with lots of variety.
Activities are varied and fun, from Bingo, baking cookies, exercise programs, to painting and crafts. Animal friends visit regularly, which is a delight for everyone.
More important than all of this though, is that Mom is so happy. This is such a relief as she loved her home but just wasn't able to live there alone. The staff at McCowan are kind, caring and attentive. If Mom ever needs someone to pop in to check on her it’s never a problem, and if she's late for a meal or an activity she usually enjoys, a staff member will call to suggest she join in. Mom has made wonderful friends at McCowan and often when we try to call her in her suite, she's in the lobby chatting and laughing.
Mom's clean & modern suite is perfect, with a bright living room, a small kitchenette with a fridge/freezer & microwave and a large bedroom with an en-suite bathroom including a roomy shower with safe bench seating.
McCowan’s strict management of COVID protocols was a relief to us as it kept Mom and others safe throughout such a challenging time. Their dedicated staff went above and beyond to ensure residents were both safe and engaged.
We love to visit because it’s absolutely wonderful to see her living her best life at age 97!
Douglas Fujiwara, resident
I have lived in the McCowan Retirement Residence for the past 3+ years. It is a great place to live after retirement for two main reasons; the friendly, competent, caring staff and the conscientious, hardworking care givers that look after us residents from day to day. These people make the Residence a carefree and cozy environment with its many services and resident activities.
Don Stuart, resident
I have lived at MRR since February 2016 .. there have been several changes in residents as well as all levels of staff but through all the stressors (including covid) the staff has remained dedicated to the wellbeing of the residents. It has been and continues to be a most pleasant experience.. full marks to the staff.
Lynn McCready, family member
I post reviews only when my experience with a business is exceptional, and I’m happy to recommend McCowan Retirement Residence. McCowan has a warm and comfortable feel, exceptionally friendly and attentive staff, as well as a full suite of amenities and activities. As we narrowed our choices, McCowan consistently stood out as the most responsive, most accommodating and most helpful of all of the residences we were considering. Two months after moving a relative in, I continue to be surprised by the outstanding level of sincere caring and compassion demonstrated by every single staff member with whom I’ve interacted. It’s remarkable, especially considering all of the challenges faced by health care providers during this pandemic. The staff is proactive in identifying medical concerns and in offering advice on how to maximize the comfort of their residents. I’m 100% confident that the staff has the wellbeing of their residents as a top priority and would be happy to move there myself when the time comes.
Leslie Mcghee, family member
My mom moved into McCowan just before COVID hit us and she was so excited with all the activities, the friends she made, and the amazing staff. We all struggled through COVID, including my mom and the staff. Let me tell you what troopers the staff were. They were so supportive [through] such sad times when residents were stuck in their rooms with lockdown but we all persevered. Now on the positive [side], I take my mom out a lot. She is known as the walker... The staff are the most pleasant—people always smiling. They will do anything for anyone. The new activities coordinator is creating new creative fun things for the residents which is amazing! The best thing is: my mom is happy. She loves the staff.
Sandy B., family member
My mom has been at McCowan for about 4 years now, and she tells me every time I see her how happy she is there. It is such a relief for me, as you worry when choosing a place for someone else to live. The transition from living on her own to living in the retirement home went smoothly. The staff made her feel welcome and helped her to adjust to her new surroundings, by including her in activities that were both fun and educational. She absolutely loves the Monarch Butterfly program they do each year. Seeing them go from cocoon to releasing them, and learning about them as well is definitely one of her favourites.
And I can’t say enough about how well the staff dealt with the Covid pandemic. Through an extremely trying time they kept everyone safe and healthy. It really shows how dedicated they are and how much they truly care about all the residents. I would highly recommend McCowan Retirement to anyone looking for a home for their parents. My mom's continued happiness tells me I have made the right choice.
Erika Schippel, family member
I moved my godmother into McCowan Retirement Residences in the summer of 2021. This was a massive life-changing event after living all of her life independently. The team at McCowan went beyond our expectations throughout the move. They ensured that she was made welcome and invited her to different events so she could get to know the people in her new community. The team works very hard to create a wonderful and engaging environment for all of those who now call McCowan home!
Ed Bilewicz, family member
We moved our parents into McCowan RR in Dec 2021. At the time our mother had moderate Alzheimer's. Mother was 96 and father 97 at time (both with a number of medical and mobility issues ) we moved them from their home in Niagara Region where they had outgrown the support the family could provide remotely and a live in granny nanny. We stumbled upon McCowan through a friend and we quickly did due diligence and moved our parents into a 1 bedroom unit on the Memory Light Care floor. Within a month elapsed time, they adjusted surprisingly quickly. We easily tailored [services] MRR provided and LHIN-provided services to provide them support they needed at this stage in their lives.
The staff at MRR are friendly, supportive , caring and responsive--- they seem to know all the residents and their families by name. Every visit I ask my parents if they are being looked after and their response is always positive. Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for place for themselves or their parents. The friend who referred us to McCowan ended up moving both her parents in as well. Their COVID protocols have worked well throughout the pandemic. Facility is clean and well kept up.
Steven Lico, family member
My mother moved into McCowan almost 4 years ago. The management were great in helping us through the process. As a family, we were worried on how our mother would like McCowan and how she would feel about it. Our concerns didn’t last long. The staff are unbelievable; very caring and thoughtful and always willing to help. And the food is great! Pre-pandemic I would visit my mother a couple of times/week to have lunch or dinner with her and we both alway enjoyed the meals. As a family member concerned about an aging parent, it is comforting to know that my mother is receiving exceptional care, nutritious meals and activities to keep her engaged.
Barbara Harvey, family member
We are very pleased with the cleanliness and the attentiveness that our mother is enjoying at McCowan. There is good communication with families. There are a variety of activities. We researched and visited a number of residences and have found that often it is best to look in your own backyard so to speak, as we are longtime residents of the Scarborough community. The staff are all caring, kind and flexible. We are very grateful for all the measures that were taken on behave of the safety and well-being of the residents during the pandemic. Any concerns, queries or time needed to talk by family members were also respectfully considered.
Debbie Rayburn, family member
My brother moved into McCowan residence mid August of this year (2021). His big concern with moving was fitting in. McCowan staff and residence have certainly made him feel this way and we as a family are so happy to see him thrive. The staff are very personable. Having programs to keep both mind and body active are held regularly. We understand from my brother the meals are very good. We would highly recommend this seniors residence.
David Wood, family member
My father was a resident at McCowan Retirement Residence for the past three years up until his passing in March of 2021. During his stay, we found everything about MRR to be wonderful. It was a great new home for my dad. While moving from his long-time family home was traumatic, the kindness and warmth shown by all of the MRR staff made my Dad feel welcome and eased his transition to the new environment.
The level of care at MRR was top notch and the staff was was very attentive and extremely kind and helpful. They took great care of my Dad and gave us peace of mind that he was being well looked after and safe, especially during the Covid pandemic. I would give particular accolades to the MRR management and staff who managed through the Covid crisis extremely well without a single infection within the residents. While we were not able to visit my Dad during the pandemic, the communication from MRR was frequent and informative which gave us comfort my Dad was safe and in good hands.
I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all of the management and staff at MRR for taking such good care of my Dad and extending kindness and friendship to him during the last few years. I would highly recommend MRR to anyone looking for great new home for their parent.
Lynne P., resident
Thank you for your welcoming hospitality ... We would highly recommend McCowan RR to anyone seeking respite/recovery care, or a longer stay. It is a lovely facility with a caring environment.
Suzanne M., family member
[Thank you to] all of the staff at McCowan RR for everything they did to help us ... staff went above and beyond to help us make the transition ... you are absolutely beautiful people that make McCowan an exceptional retirement residence.
Rose, resident
Wonderful staff. They care about the residents.
Jan, family member
Couldn't have better care anywhere! The love and support with which the staff treated my dad was above and beyond. They have my heartfelt gratitude.
John, family member
My aunt lives there. She loves it. A very nice place to retire.
