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Northwood began in 1962 as a social movement in response to the plight of seniors living alone in Halifax. What emerged was a shared belief that people, committed to an ideal, could make a difference in the world.

Since its inception, Northwood has become a powerful voice for seniors in Nova Scotia, demanding a new approach to aging in place.

Today, Northwood is the largest not-for-profit continuing care organization in Atlantic Canada.

Some of the True Doors ®
chosen by elders during the pilot

True Doors selected by the elders at Northwood in Nova Scotia Canada - Photo 7
True Doors selected by the elders at Northwood in Nova Scotia Canada - Photo 4
True Doors selected by the elders at Northwood in Nova Scotia Canada - Photo 6
True Doors selected by the elders at Northwood in Nova Scotia Canada - Photo 2

Family and staff shares their views

They are great, helps mom remember which room is hers, and she loves it. Mom loves the color.

Daughter of Resident | at Bedford Campus, Northwood in Nova Scotia, Canada

I really like the doors. It personalizes the resident’s home. I find there is less confusion with rooms, fewer people walking into the wrong rooms.

Member of staff | at Bedford Campus, Northwood in Nova Scotia, Canada

They are very nice. They make the rooms seem much more personal and individual not so much like a hospital institution. They are also much more pleasing to look at and add artwork to the unit. Also the residents seem very pleased and take pride in their doors/rooms.

Member of staff | at Bedford Campus, Northwood in Nova Scotia, Canada

Mom feels that uninvited residents no longer enter her room. She likes her new door.

Daughter of Resident | at Bedford Campus, Northwood in Nova Scotia, Canada

More of the True Doors ® chosen by elders during the pilot

True Doors selected by the elders at Northwood in Nova Scotia Canada - Photo 8
True Doors selected by the elders at Northwood in Nova Scotia Canada - Photo 5
True Doors selected by the elders at Northwood in Nova Scotia Canada - Photo 1
True Doors selected by the elders at Northwood in Nova Scotia Canada - Photo 3

We are happy to confirm that the fundraising campaign for Northwood was successful and that the Bedford Campus is able to enjoy a full transformation.

This textbook example of a good person-centred True Doors program followed the three main rules of thumb:

  • Start small
  • Give residents their voice
  • Take the time needed to make it as valuable as possible
To learn more about how to run a great True Doors process, take a look at the complimentary True Doors Success Guide.

Transform impersonal hallways into neighborhoods with homes.

Help people to recognize and find their own doors. Increase privacy and sense of safety. Stimulate reminiscence and social interaction. Help elders feel at home, and energize staff with a beautiful workplace.