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.
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.
