Element Lifestyle Retirement Inc.

Moving into a retirement community often feels detached and impersonal. The comfort of family dinners, spontaneous laughter in the kitchen and the familiar rhythm of daily life are what make a home come alive. When that sense of home starts to drift, the transition can feel like something being left behind.

At Opal by Element Lifestyle Retirement Inc. (“Element”) in Vancouver, the sense of home is never lost.

Through a unique ownership model, older adults purchase their residences via a strata title—investing in a vibrant, independent lifestyle. Modern amenities, cultural experiences and social opportunities blend the familiarity of home with the vibrancy of community life. Here, family visits become more than routine check-ins. A dedicated intergenerational activity room brings generations together in a joyful setting, evoking the warmth of laughter, play and cherished memories.

What sets Opal apart is the transition to licensed care floors when needed—often triggered by a personal or spousal health event. This built-in continuum of care provides long-term peace of mind. No relocation. No separation. Just consistent care, connection and companionship.

“Residents can enjoy their golden years on their own terms—doing what they want, not what others think they should,” says Michael Diao, CEO.

Diao shaped this vision, inspired by ‘Aging in Place’ philosophy of Don Ho, the Founder and Honorary Chair of Element. After leading a senior community in Beijing, he set out to redefine luxury retirement living in North America. He chose Vancouver to bring together world-class design and culturally attuned care—honoring both independence and long-term support.
Living Each Day with Joy, Culture and Connection

At Opal, every day feels like a fresh chapter—filled with opportunities to explore new activities, discover new interests and connect with other residents. Mornings begin with a peaceful walk, afternoons with a lively excursion or shopping trip and evenings with the energy of live entertainment.

Wellness is thoughtfully woven into daily life at Opal, offering residents access to a fully hydraulic-equipped gym, as well as yoga and Tai Chi classes that promote balance and vitality. A luxury Himalayan salt sauna room and a jacuzzi room add an extra layer of care, nurturing both body and mind through relaxation and rejuvenation. For leisure and connection, residents can catch a film or live performance in the on-site theatre, then wind down with an evening stroll through the piano lobby, a visit to the wine and scotch bar or quiet moments in the fireside library lounge.

With 70 percent of the community coming from an Asian background, cultural familiarity is woven into daily life. Bilingual staff creates a welcoming atmosphere where conversations flow easily. At Opal, meals bring the flavors of home. Crafted menus balance nutrition with the familiar tastes residents cherish. Authentic Western and Asian dishes, prepared by top-tier chefs, make every bite a celebration of well-being and cultural identity.

“This spirit of cultural connection shines during celebrations like Chinese New Year, where we dress up as the ‘God of Fortune’—a playful nod to Asian tradition that never fails to light up the room. With laughter echoing and smiles all around, it’s a joyful, heartfelt way to share in the moment and create lasting memories together,” says Ernie Hee, Executive Vice President and interim CFO.

Listen, Adapt and Evolve

Opal continuously refines dining, recreation and well-being by drawing on resident feedback, family councils and decades of experience managing Don Ho’s communities. This dedication has earned Element its reputation as the ‘best’ in retirement living. A recent milestone was the BC Care Providers Association’s care awards, where the Premier and the new Minister of Health honored outstanding members—a recognition of the growing impact of senior care.

That reputation was further reinforced in Victoria, where policymakers acknowledged Element’s role in setting new industry standards with a resort-style service. A recent luncheon with visiting alumni captured this impression. Guests were amazed, asking, “Is this a high-end resort or a retirement community?”

Momentum continues as Element plans to expand Opal to Victoria, Langley and beyond. Because at Opal, retirement isn’t a chapter closing—it’s a story still being written.