The 1950s was a decade marked by the post-war boom, the rise of the civil rights movement, and the influence of pop culture icons. While the nostalgia of this decade conjures up images of jukeboxes, poodle skirts, and rock and roll stars- it was also a time that was shaped by significant social and cultural shifts. Read on to take a walk down memory lane! The Postwar Boom After World War II ended, people felt confident that the future promised peace and prosperity. The economy was booming, with low rates of unemployment and inflation, and high wages. The middle-class had money to spend- new cars, suburban homes, and an increased variety of consumer goods were readily available for purchase. Families were growing faster than ever before, with millions of “baby boomers” added to the population during the 1950s. The economic growth during this decade meant that families could enjoy a higher standard of living with more money to spend on fashion and leisure than ever before. Evolution of the Civil Rights Movement During the 1950s, a growing number of people spoke out against the inequality and injustice African Americans experienced. This decade brought forth a stand against racism and segregation faced by the black community, which resulted in changes to laws and set the stage for significant advancements in the fight for equal rights. Pop Culture Icons This decade is known for the legendary sounds of Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Buddy Holly. The rock and roll genre exploded onto the airwaves and swept the nation. During the 1950s, home television sets grew in popularity. This decade brought us family friendly TV programs such as Leave It To Beaver, I Love Lucy, and The Ed Sullivan Show. People flocked to movie theatres to see Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, and Marlon Brando on the big screen. Ben Hur and Rebel Without A Cause were just two of the numerous silver screen box office hits that were popular during this decade. Fashion & Trends The 1950s ushered in new fashion trends, with women wearing poodle skirts, bobby socks, and saddle shoes. Leather jackets, cuffed jeans, and slicked hair was the style of choice for young men who wanted to emulate their favourite rock and roll singers. These fashion trends were on full display amongst teenagers at the malt shops and sock hops. We hope you’ve enjoyed this trip down memory lane as we looked back on the 1950s!

Facility Outbreak in the 2222 Residential Tower

Holi is a springtime festival celebrated by Hindus in India and around the world. Also known as the “Festival of Love”, or “Festival of Colours”, Holi is held on the last full moon during the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna. The exact date changes every year, and festivities begin on the evening of the full moon. This year, Holi falls on March 14 th . Holi ushers in the arrival of spring and offers people the opportunity to begin anew with a fresh start. This ancient festival marks the end of winter and signifies the triumph of good over evil. The night before Holi begins, revelers light bonfires to bid winter farewell. Hindus gather at temples to celebrate with song and dance. During Holi, participants throw gulal- brightly coloured powders and water- at one another. Each of the coloured powders represent different things- red symbolizes love, green symbolizes new beginnings, and blue represents the Hindu god, Krishna. The streets and revelers are covered in the brilliant colours, with people dancing and singing in celebration. Once the colour festivities end, people usually visit family and friends, where they exchange gifts and share a meal. Holi is a time that Hindus look forward to all year- a time to welcome spring and the bountiful harvest season ahead. Happy Holi! 

Moving to OSCR is the start of an exciting new chapter in your life. It brings the chance to downsize and let go of items that no longer serve you; it also opens up the opportunity to create a beautiful, cozy, and functional space to enjoy life. Read on for tips on how to decorate your suite so you feel right at home at OSCR! Maximize Your Space We provide everyone with a floor plan in the information package. This is a useful tool when deciding which furnishings you will bring with you. Be mindful of the measurements of each piece of furniture and choose items that are both comfortable and functional. Consider items that provide extra storage opportunities, such as an ottoman with storage or tv stand with drawers. Only bring furniture that will fit comfortably to avoid an overcrowded space. Prioritize Safety and Accessibility Your space should be easy to navigate and free of clutter or tripping hazards. If you choose to place a rug on the floor, ensure that it has a non-slip backing. Make sure that electrical cords are out of the way, and that power bars are not overloaded; plug your mini fridge or space heater directly into the wall. Décor items should be securely affixed to the walls, or on a tabletop with enough surface space. You should have fun with the placement of your furniture and décor, but falls prevention and safety should be top of mind. Light Up Your Life Adding a floor lamp and a couple of table lamps will bring light and warmth to your suite. The overhead light in the hallway will be complemented by these additional light sources and brighten up your space, creating a welcoming ambiance. Placing a battery-operated touch light in your closets will provide a handy light source when you need it. Consider placing a motion-activated night light in the hallway for added safety during trips to the washroom at night. These added light sources will create a functional, bright and cozy living space. Personalize With Décor Decorate your walls with family photos, souvenirs from your travels, and cherished artwork. Surrounding yourself with pictures of loved ones and treasured paintings will give your suite a personal touch. Add decorative pillows or a throw blanket that feature your favourite colours to your bed or chair to create a comfortable, inviting space. These elements will transform your suite into a reflection of the people and possessions that matter most to you. Add Life to Your Suite Bring in a couple of plants or flowers to add life to your space- greenery thrives next to the large bay window in your suite. Be sure to choose plants that love sunlight. Artificial plants are another way to add colour, without the watering and upkeep. Succulents or snake plants are a low-maintenance option if you’d prefer a real plant. The addition of living (and faux) greenery will add a vibrant, colorful element to your décor. The décor in your OSCR suite should reflect your personality and create a functional and cozy space to live the next chapter of your life!

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is an important time for Muslims around the world. It is a period of spiritual reflection, heightened devotion, and self-improvement. Ramadan is a time to focus on their Islamic faith, gather with family, and perform acts of generosity. The dates of Ramadan change each year, as the Islamic calendar is based on the cycles of the moon. During Ramadan, Muslims fast, refraining from eating and drinking from dawn to sundown. Nothing is consumed during daylight hours- not even water. Once the sun sets, families gather for large meals to break their fast. Called Iftar, these meals are often shared with extended family and friends. The month of Ramadan is a time for Muslims to dedicate more time to the teachings of Islam and perform acts of kindness and generosity. They believe that Ramadan teaches self-discipline, sacrifice, and empathy; many Muslims raise money for charity or donate to causes to help less fortunate people during this time. Common greetings during Ramadan include “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem”, which mean “Blessed Ramadan” and “Generous Ramadan”.  Ramadan comes to an end once the first sighting of the crescent moon occurs. Eid al-fitr begins at sunset when this moon is visible. On this night, families and friends gather together to celebrate. Fasting is not permitted during this time, and Muslims prepare large feasts to mark the end of Ramadan- a month of fasting, spiritual devotion, and acts of generosity. Ramadan Mubarak!

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February is Senior Independence Month, a time to reflect on the importance of helping seniors live as independently as possible- which is what OSCR strives to do each and every day. Our safe and supportive environment empowers our residents to remain independent as they age in place. Supportive Living at OSCR provides services such as dining, homemaking, and laundry to ensure our clients receive the right care, at the right time, in the right place to assist them to live with a strong sense of independence and dignity. Senior Independence Month is a time to focus on the support and resources that are available to help seniors live full, engaged, and active lives. This is a month to highlight the importance of physical activity, social interaction, and a sense of community. The Healthy Living Programs offered at OSCR provide our seniors with the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities to keep their mind and body active. Clients of OSCR enjoy a wide range of Healthy Living Programs such as exercise classes, walks in the community, and group games. We also have convenient on-site amenities such as a salon, pharmacy, and shop, allowing our residents to access what they need without having to ask family or friends for assistance with coordinating errands and tasks.  Our sense of community also fosters strong connections and friendships amongst our residents. We believe that encouraging the independence of seniors is a crucial part of maintaining good health and well-being as they age. At OSCR, each of our residents are treated as individuals, and are encouraged and supported to live as independently as possible. Our supportive services allow OSCR clients to thrive in their senior years and live their lives to the fullest. Happy Senior Independence Month!

Each February, we recognize and celebrate the profound impact that Black Canadians have had, and continue to have, in communities across the country. February marks Black History Month in Canada- a time where we honour the achievements, learn more about the history, and listen to the stories of Black Canadians. We celebrate the diversity and achievements of Black people in Canada, and the contributions they have made to Canadian society. This month is an opportunity to recognize the positive impact that Black Canadians have made in shaping our cultural and social landscapes. The theme for Black History Month 2025 is “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations”. This theme acknowledges the accomplishments and contributions of Black people in Canada and looks to new opportunities in the future. The theme was announced on Lincoln Alexander Day- a day in which we commemorate the legacy of Canada’s first Black Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, the Honourable Lincoln Alexander. While this month is a celebratory time where we participate in festivities and events, it is also a time to reflect on the painful history Black people in Canada experienced, and the challenges and discrimination they continue to face in their lives. The more we educate ourselves on these issues, the more empathetic and informed we can be in the future. This February, as we celebrate Black History Month, Canadians across the country highlight and honour the wonderful contributions that Black people make in our communities each and every day. We encourage everyone to learn more about how the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians have helped shaped Canada.

Facility Outbreak Declared Over in the 2222 Residential Tower