When Klara arrived at Primrose Chateau three years ago, she planned to stay a week.
“That’s what I told the manager,” she recalled. “I didn’t think I’d like it here.”
However, it wasn’t long before Klara changed her mind. Community staff introduced her to a table of women in the dining room, and that made all the difference.
“They sort of adopted me,” Klara said with a wink. “I still sit with them every day.”
A life that spans continents
At 96, Klara has lived a remarkable life filled with resilience, reinvention and a passion for music.
Born in Hungary, she survived the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp as a teenager during World War II. When the Hungarian Revolution broke out in 1956, she once again faced a life-changing decision.
“I’d just finished university,” Klara said. “And my mother said, ‘You have to leave.’ So, I left.”
At 26, she fled with friends to Canada as refugees.
“I didn’t even know where Canada was,” she said with a laugh. “But we were told Canada was open, so I said, ‘I’m going there.’”
She landed in Winnipeg in the middle of winter, unprepared for the cold but ready to build a new life. Which she did.
A talented musician, Klara joined the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and later became its principal cellist. She taught music at the University of Manitoba and remains devoted to her cello today.
Moving closer to family
After six decades in Winnipeg, Klara was ready to move again – to live near her daughter in Saskatoon, SK. She didn’t want to live alone after the loss of her husband.
Soon after arriving at Primrose Chateau for what she thought would be a one-week stay, she made an unexpected discovery: companionship.
A table of friends
Although she claims to be an introvert, Klara appreciates how community life naturally offers opportunities to socialize with her neighbours. Meals are a favourite time to connect.
Her regular lunch and dinner companions are the women she met her first week. They’ve become a vital part of her daily routine and helped create a powerful sense of community for Klara.
“If one of us needs something, we have each other’s phone numbers,” she said. “I feel like I belong here.”
Independence with connection
While Klara enjoys time with others, she also values the space to do what she likes.
Most mornings begin with coffee and conversation in her apartment with her two daughters over video chat, one in Saskatoon and one in Philadelphia, PA. After that, Klara decides how to spend the day.
With cooking, cleaning and other routine tasks taken care of, she has the time and freedom to focus on the things she loves to do.
“Maybe I practice the cello. Maybe I draw,” she said. “Maybe both!”
Discovering a new passion
Klara has played the cello for decades and practices most days. Since moving to the community, she also rediscovered drawing.
“I always could draw,” she says. “But I never had time to pursue it before.”
Now she sketches scenes inspired by everyday life at the community – neighbours chatting, group activities, humorous moments. Her drawings became so popular she compiled them into small books to give as gifts to fellow residents.
A place that feels like home
For Klara, the services that make life easier are just part of the value of living at Primrose Chateau. The people she’s met – both residents and staff – are the most important.
“You can talk to them anytime,” she said. “They don’t hide in their offices. They’re right there in the dining room or wherever. It feels like home.”
Advice from someone who knows
After nearly a century of life experience – from surviving war to building a music career and starting over in a new country – Klara’s advice to others considering senior living is simple.
“Just move in and relax,” she said. “They will take care of you. And you’ll meet plenty of friendly people.”
At 96, Klara continues to walk quickly, practice the cello and sketch the life going on around her. When asked what she’s learned after all these years, she offers one final thought:
“Life is very short,” Klara said. “Enjoy every minute.”
A place where you belong
Locate a community near you and request a personal tour and consultation. There’s no obligation, and, chances are, you’ll walk away with a smile, knowing you’ve taken the first step toward an independent lifestyle in a socially connected environment.
You might also like
Want to learn more about life at Atria Retirement Canada?