By Andrew Trinder, Director of Operations, VRS Communities Seniors Living
Unlike days of olde, retirement communities are no longer institutional settings, but instead provide a level of service more akin to a hotel experience. Looking to leaders in the hospitality sector, a retirement residence’s focus should be as much on hospitality and customer service as it is ensuring a safe and connected way of living. Reasons for making the move are usually a combination of:
1. Feeling isolated at home and wanting more social engagements and shared activities
2. Wanting relief from shopping, cooking and daily chores
3. Lessening the administration commitments of life
4. Mobility challenges in the home
5. Requiring centralised care and 24/7 personnel
Like a hotel, the quality of these hospitality services, range of amenities and overall experience, can differ and is often reflected in the monthly living rates. Although the seniors living industry is dominated by national and international companies, there are not-for-profit Residences, that offer quality services for seniors, and operate in an environment which deeply cares about the individual. These non-profit residences offer fair-market rates and invest profits back into the seniors communities in which they serve.
Such a monumental change in your life requires time and research. Start by touring a few residences to find the best fit and make the right choice for you.
VRS Communities has 11 seniors communities across BC and Alberta, including:
Lakeside Gardens in Nanaimo
Ross Place in Victoria
Pacific Carlton in White Rock
Sunnyside Manor in White Rock
Orchard Gardens in Kelowna
Sunshine Ridge in Osoyoos
Silver Springs in Vernon
Charles Manor in Penticton
Andover Terrace in Salmon Arm
Shuswap Lodge in Salmon Arm
Garneau Hall in Edmonton