Holiday Magic at AgeCare Glen Oaks

Holiday Magic at AgeCare Glen Oaks  

Location: Oakville, Ontario 

“A 92-year-old man came up to me recently after a show and said, ‘That was the most wonderful day I’ve ever had’ – that’s why we do it.” 

It’s long been said that laughter is the best medicine, and that is especially true for residents in long-term care. Many people moving into long-term care today are older and living with more complex needs than a decade ago. And a good laugh? It makes everything better. 

For several years now, AgeCare Glen Oaks in Oakville has brought in a humorous duo to add a special touch to their line-up of holiday entertainment.  

Both retired, Tim and Steve love magic so much – they’re making it a regular part of their own golden years. As soon as the two tall men walk into a home, you can feel the energy shift. A quiet sense of curiosity and glee starts to spread among residents, their families and staff members.  
 
There are varying cognitive abilities among residents, yet it’s easy to see that every one of them wants to see what tricks the elves have up their sleeves.  

Some residents walk in dancing and singing. Those who use wheelchairs get cozy with blankets across their laps and snacks in hand. Staff members, who ensure everyone is safe and comfortable, pull up a seat next to them to enjoy the skits. 

“That’s one of the best shows we see!” – resident, AgeCare Glen Oaks

It was at AgeCare Glen Oaks that Tim Dickins began performing these magic tricks a few years ago for a loved one who was living in the home. Laughter, he realized, promotes connection, dignity and resilience, things that matter every day in long-term care homes across Ontario. Wanting to turn a few tricks into a real show, Tim reached out to Steve, a fellow golfer he’d heard was into card magic. It turned out to be a great fit. They now visit many long-term care and retirement homes to perform a two-person show featuring more than a dozen tricks and skits that residents talk about excitedly for days afterwards.  

What began as a few simple tricks has grown into something much more meaningful. This holiday magic show is about more than a sleight of hand. It’s a reminder of what truly matters in long-term care – a child-like heart and human connection.