What Do Dads Really Want for Father’s Day?

Written by Janet Helm, Realtor® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) 

Reflections from a Daughter and a Seniors Real Estate Specialist: Honouring Fathers and the Gift of Time

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist—and more personally, as a daughter of a senior—I’ve come to realize that what most dads truly want, especially as they grow older, isn’t the latest gadget or another item for the shelf. It’s not about stuff. It’s about time. Your time. Your attention. Your presence.

It’s the simple moments that matter most: a walk together, sharing a favourite story, sitting over a cup of coffee, or even sending an updated photograph just to show you’re thinking of them. These small, meaningful gestures are the gifts that truly touch a father’s heart.

I’m especially grateful to still be able to celebrate Father’s Day with my dad. He’s 99 years old, and each year with him feels more precious than the last. Every visit, every hug, every conversation—every game of crib we share—is a gift I never take for granted.

And for those who no longer have their father around, Father’s Day can still be a meaningful time to reflect on cherished memories and lasting influences. Taking a moment to remember what he loved or the lessons he passed on can be a powerful way to honour his legacy.

In my work with older adults and families, I often witness how the roles within a family shift over time. It can be hard to know how to show up—especially if you’re helping your dad navigate aging, caregiving, or downsizing. But one thing remains true: homes hold stories—where traditions were made, wisdom was shared, and love began to grow. Father’s Day can be a beautiful opportunity to honour that legacy.

I’d love to hear from you—feel free to share a memory of your father in the comments or by replying to this post.