John van Gurp still remembers noticing Heather for the first time in high school in 1979. They were 17. They went on to spend more than four decades together — building a family, travelling the world, and sharing a life full of love and laughter. In the spring of 2021, John began to sense something wasn’t right.

The holidays can be a joyful time, but for many people living in long-term care, the season can also be quiet and isolating. Thanks to the Extended Care Paramedics from Emergency Health Services (EHS), kindness and connection was in abundance today!

Last week, Northwood friends, residents, and supporters gathered for a celebratory luncheon at the Halifax Campus, where the Christina & Hedley G. Ivany Charitable Foundation announced a profound and lasting commitment to Northwood through a legacy gift supporting mental health programs in perpetuity.

Northwood welcomed students from NSCAD University’s Bachelor of Design (BDes) program yesterday morning as part of a hands-on exploration of how thoughtful, human-centred design can better support people living with dementia.

This December, the halls of Northwood were filled with the sounds, spirit, and joy of the season. Our annual holiday concerts—held at both the Halifax and Bedford campuses—brought residents, families, staff, and community partners together for evenings of music, connection, and heartfelt celebration.

That’s why each year; Mary Anne hosts her very own “Open Room.”  She decorates her space with lights and garland, sets out holiday treats, and invites friends old and new to stop by for cheer, conversation, and laughter. What began as a simple idea has grown into a beautiful tradition. one that brightens not only her room, but the entire community around her. For Mary Anne, the Open Room is more than a party.  It is hope in action.

Something truly remarkable is happening within our Northwood community this holiday season, a movement of kindness that stretches far beyond our walls. Every year, our Holiday Card Campaign invites people to send handwritten cards filled with messages of hope, comfort, and joy to residents who may be spending the season without family nearby. What began as a simple idea has grown into a beautiful tradition that connects generations, communities, and hearts.

A simple idea is making a meaningful difference across our Northwood community. Through gardening, creativity, and shared activities, residents are finding new ways to connect, build confidence, and support their well-being. Our Roots to Resilience Program, recently featured by SaltWire, brings residents, staff, families, and volunteers together in ways that encourage purpose and joy.

The holidays are a time to come together, spread kindness, and make sure everyone in our community feels remembered. If you’re looking for a way to give back this season, Northwood Foundation has six simple and meaningful opportunities to brighten someone’s day. Here’s how you can help our residents and clients Live More this holiday season...

Halifax, NS — One month after the launch of The Dignity Rack, the Northwood Foundation and Mountain Warehouse are celebrating strong community response to the new partnership — an initiative that makes it easy for shoppers to give back while shopping local. Unveiled on October 18 at Mountain Warehouse’s Halifax and Dartmouth stores, The Dignity Rack invites customers to purchase small, essential items like socks, sweaters, and sunglasses for Northwood residents and clients.

Building on History, Caring for the Future WESTPHAL, NS — A proud day for care and community in Nova Scotia. Today, Northwood officially broke ground on its new Akoma Campus , a modern long-term care home being developed in  Westphal through a partnership between  Northwood , the Province of Nova Scotia , and Akoma Holdings Inc. — a local charitable organization with a long history of leadership and service within the African Nova Scotian community. Located on the historic Ak

Last Friday, the Northwood community, staff, and volunteers got into the Halloween spirit with festive fun at both our Bedford and Halifax campuses. At the Bedford Campus , laughter filled the halls as staff showed off their creativity and team spirit with colourful costumes and imaginative pumpkin designs. From classic jack-o’-lanterns to clever themed creations, the Pumpkin Decorating Contest brought out everyone’s inner artist — and a few friendly scares along the way! Bed

Spotlighting Northwood’s Continuing Care Workers October marks Continuing Care Month, an opportunity to recognize the vital contributions of those who provide care, comfort, and support each day. At Northwood, Continuing Care Workers play an essential role in ensuring the well-being of our residents and clients. Throughout this month, we will highlight members of our team through a series of spotlights, sharing their experiences, interests, and reflections on what they value

Last Thursday, we proudly celebrated the incredible dedication of 192 employees at our Halifax Campus who have reached milestone anniversaries ranging from 10 to 45 years of service. Each of these individuals has played an essential role in making Northwood the caring, innovative and community focused organization it is today. The evening was filled with pride, gratitude and heartfelt appreciation as we recognized the lasting impact of our team members. This year also marke

Spotlighting Northwood’s Continuing Care Workers October marks Continuing Care Month, an opportunity to recognize the vital contributions of those who provide care, comfort, and support each day. At Northwood, Continuing Care Workers play an essential role in ensuring the well-being of our residents and clients. Throughout this month, we will highlight members of our team through a series of spotlights, sharing their experiences, interests, and reflections on what they value

For many Northwood seniors, comfort comes from small things — a soft sweater, a pair of warm socks, a little dignity in everyday life. Now, when you shop at Mountain Warehouse Halifax Shopping Centre or Dartmouth Crossing, you can help provide those comforts. Choose an item from The Dignity Rack and add it to your purchase. We’ll make sure it reaches a local senior who needs it most. Because dignity shouldn’t be a luxury.

Spotlighting Northwood’s Continuing Care Workers October marks Continuing Care Month, an opportunity to recognize the vital contributions of those who provide care, comfort, and support each day. At Northwood, Continuing Care Workers play an essential role in ensuring the well-being of our residents and clients. Throughout this month, we will highlight members of our team through a series of spotlights, sharing their experiences, interests, and reflections on what they value

14th Annual Northwood Research Symposium April 30, 2026 | Cedar Event Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia Join us for the 14th Annual Northwood Research Symposium, a full-day event celebrating research, innovation, and collaboration in continuing care and healthcare. Each year, the Symposium brings together professionals, researchers, policymakers, and community partners to share knowledge, explore emerging ideas, and spark meaningful dialogue about the future of aging and care in N

Today we celebrate something truly special, the people who remind us of what excellence looks like in action. Those who see a better way, care enough to make it happen, and lift others along the way. Congratulations to this year’s Safety and Quality Award recipients: Northwood Campus: Quality Improvement Award: Danielle Dyke Safety Excellence Award: Nina Logan Their leadership and diligence have had a significant impact on maintaining a safe environment for both tenants and s

Spotlighting Northwood’s Continuing Care Workers October marks Continuing Care Month, an opportunity to recognize the vital contributions of those who provide care, comfort, and support each day. At Northwood, Continuing Care Workers play an essential role in ensuring the well-being of our residents and clients. Throughout this month, we will highlight members of our team through a series of spotlights, sharing their experiences, interests, and reflections on what they value