At Exquisicare, we believe that every person carries a story — a lineage of strength, resilience, and wisdom that deserves to be honoured. As we recognize National Indigenous Peoples Day, we pause with gratitude and humility to reflect on the deep contributions, diverse cultures, and enduring presence of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across this land.

While our homes do not currently have Indigenous residents, we recognize our responsibility — and our opportunity — to be ready. The Exquisicare model of care, which centres on dignity, respect, and personalized relationships, is beautifully aligned with the values and priorities held by many Indigenous communities.

We believe our care homes can be places where language, tradition, ceremony, and identity are not only respected, but upheld and celebrated.

Walking the Path of Truth and Reconciliation

To truly honour Indigenous Peoples, we must also acknowledge the truths of Canada’s history — and the impact that history continues to have on Indigenous individuals, families, and communities.

The legacy of residential schools, colonization, and systemic inequities has caused lasting harm — including in healthcare. Many Indigenous Elders carry memories and experiences that affect how they interact with care providers and institutions.

As a provider of senior care, we take seriously our role in creating environments that affirm identity, dignity, and cultural safety — especially for those whose trust in the system has been rightfully shaken.

Why the Exquisicare Model Fits

Our approach — intimate, respectful, and personalized — naturally creates the kind of environment that can uplift and preserve Indigenous traditions and ways of life for Elders in long-term care. Here’s how:

• Small, home-like settings: Our boutique model allows for deep relationships, the flexibility to honour personal practices, and the space to hold sacred ceremonies, storytelling, or smudging.
• Holistic approach: Like Indigenous teachings, we see health as more than just physical. We care for body, mind, heart, and spirit.
• Resident-directed care: We support each elder’s individual preferences — including traditional foods, medicines, and language use — rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all model.
• Family inclusion: Indigenous cultures deeply value community and intergenerational connection. Our model encourages family and community involvement in meaningful ways.

In essence, we believe Indigenous Elders should not have to leave their culture at the door when they enter care. Our homes are built to honour what matters most to each individual — and that includes their roots.

Learning from Indigenous Teachings

We continue to be inspired by Indigenous worldviews and the teachings shared by Elders, educators, and care leaders:

• Health is holistic — the balance of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
• Elders are knowledge holders — not just recipients of care, but respected teachers.
• Healing happens in community — through language, ceremony, connection to land, and relational care.

These values resonate deeply with our own philosophy and challenge us to continually improve the way we serve.

Taking Steps with Intention

We are still early in our journey toward reconciliation, and we are taking steps forward with humility and commitment:

· Cultural Awareness Commitment: We plan to integrate Indigenous cultural safety and awareness learning into our team development in the coming year.

· Commemorative Practices: We honour important days such as National Indigenous Peoples Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with reflective opportunities for staff. · Learning from Indigenous-led expertise: We intend to seek guidance from the SE Health First Nations, Inuit and Métis (FNIM) Program in the near future. Their work supports culturally safe, holistic healthcare rooted in Indigenous leadership and values.

A Moment to Honour

Today, and every day, we extend our deep respect and gratitude to the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples of this land. We honour the Elders — past, present, and future — whose wisdom and strength continue to shape communities and generations.

We also honour the Indigenous leaders, healers, caregivers, and educators who are restoring traditions, reclaiming space, and leading with compassion and strength.

“Reconciliation is not an Indigenous problem. It is a Canadian one. It involves all of us.”

— Justice Murray Sinclair

With Gratitude and Commitment

As caregivers and community members, we commit to walking forward with humility, openness, and respect. We honour the sacredness of every life and every story — and we believe the Exquisicare model is not just ready, but uniquely prepared to serve Indigenous Elders with dignity, cultural honour, and love. ❤️