Eight years later, Agathe has found a true sense of home

For many years, Agathe and her husband, Raoul, moved throughout Quebec for her husband's work. As retirement approached, they found themselves longing for something different: a place where they could finally settle in and truly feel at home.

After returning to the Montreal area, they quickly realized their house felt a little too big and their residential neighbourhood a little too quiet. Ready to explore what else might be possible, Agathe began visiting retirement residences. The moment they walked through the doors of Chartwell Rosemont les Quartiers, any doubts disappeared.

"We had just found our new home—I KNEW we were going to be happy here."

Once their house was sold, they embraced the move with enthusiasm. Agathe still vividly remembers their very first morning in their new apartment. When they woke up, they were overcome by a deep sense of relief and freedom. “It felt as if a heavy weight had just been lifted off our shoulders. Finally, we're home.”

Finding connection in a close-knit community

Four years ago, Agathe experienced the heartbreaking loss of Raoul after an illness. During such a difficult time, the friendships and sense of belonging they had built at their Chartwell residence took on an even deeper meaning. For Agathe, staying in the community they had come to call home felt natural.

As she stepped into this new chapter, she was surrounded by familiar faces, caring neighbours and friends who were there when she needed them most. Much like in a small village, people look out for one another, and over time, the warmth of those connections helped bring joy back into her everyday life.

Embracing everything retirement living has to offer

Today, Agathe is a vibrant presence at the residence, embracing each day with the same warmth and enthusiasm she shares with those around her. As a member of the welcoming committee, she helps new residents feel at home and discover their own place within the community.

Beyond the residence, Agathe continues to find meaningful ways to connect and contribute. She's also at the heart of the Iberville Gardens, a green landscaping initiative along a footbridge enjoyed by the wider Rosemont community. This English-inspired garden was even recognized by the Montreal Biodôme as a valuable source of local biodiversity.

Maintained with love by about twenty resident volunteers, it's become one of the residence's favourite gathering spots.

Eight years after making the move, Agathe has found so much more than a place to live. At Chartwell Rosemont les Quartiers, she has found friendship, purpose, belonging, and a place where she can truly flourish.

Interested in retirement living? Here's how to get started

If Agathe's experience has you thinking about retirement living for you or your loved one, you're not alone. More older adults are choosing a lifestyle that offers connection, comfort, and fewer day-to-day responsibilities.

The best way to know if it's right for you is to experience it for yourself.

Visit our Find a Residence page to explore Chartwell locations near you and book a tour at your convenience. You'll also have the chance to speak with a Retirement Living Consultant, ask questions, and experience the community firsthand.