BERWICK FAQ

Ask a Senior Living Expert:

Looking for something specific?
Do I have to purchase my suite?
- Joane Smith
Answered on September 16th,2014

You are not required or permitted to purchase your suite when you come to live with us.  We offer Independent Supported Living in a monthly package of accommodation rental (an unfurnished suite) and hospitality services which includes meals, housekeeping, social & recreational programs and 24/7 emergency response.

- Jenny Smith, Senior Living ExpertTM
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What does my monthly package include?
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Answered on September 15th,2014

Our comprehensive monthly package includes your suite rental and hospitality services. Heat, hydro, air-conditioning and basic cable TV are included (telephone and on-site parking are extra).  You will enjoy delicious meals prepared by our Executive Chef and his team; weekly housekeeping with linen & towel laundry service; a full program of social and recreational activities for body, mind and spirit, and on-site emergency response 24/7.

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What utilities are included in my rent?
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Answered on September 14th,2014

Your monthly rental package includes all your heat, hydro, air-conditioning and basic cable TV.  Telephone service is billed separately by Berwick..  Residents who wish to access additional cable television channels and/or internet service can have those services added.  Wi Fi is available in most common areas and lounges in our residences.

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Can I afford to live at Berwick?
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Answered on September 13th,2014

An excellent question, and one we can only partly answer.  We can provide you with up to date information on our current costs, but we recommend that you consult your financial planner, bank manager and/or family to determine whether or not your income is sufficient.  You may be surprised when you calculate what it actually costs for you to remain in your existing home when you factor in utilities, groceries, insurance, taxes, housekeeping and garden help, transportation, and all the other many expenses you may incur to keep your present home running well.

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How much does it cost for a second occupant?
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Answered on September 12th,2014

Our current rate for a second occupant in a suite is $600 – $750 per month.  A second occupant could be a spouse, partner, sibling, other relative or friend who is sharing your suite with you.  A studio or Brio Care Suite is not suitable for more than one occupant.

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What happens if I have an emergency?
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Answered on September 11th,2014

No need to worry.  You and your family can feel confident that help will be there when you need it.  There are first aid trained emergency responders on duty in our residences 24/7.  You will be provided with a pendant to use if you have an emergency such as a fall or chest pain, etc.  By pressing your pendant you will send an alert directly to the responder who will come to find you and assess what needs to happen next.  If necessary our responders will start first aid, call for an ambulance, or contact your family.

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Will I have to move out if I get sick or need additional help?
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Answered on September 10th,2014

Our program of Enhanced Living Services is available to provide residents with additional support if residents require some extra help to maintain their privacy and independence.  These services will be scheduled into their daily routine through a support plan that is designed to meet residents needs.  Additional services may include such things as medication reminders, assistance with bathing, dressing and grooming, eye drops, personal laundry, escort to appointments, etc.  Enhanced Living Services can be used short term (during recovert from illness or surgery) or on-going should residents personal status change.  Enhanced Living Services cannot provide on-call or 24 hour nursing care. Enhanced Living Services are delivered and billed in units of 15 minutes.

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What if I need on-going care not covered by Assisted Living?
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Answered on September 9th,2014

Berwick’s Brio Care Suites offer a supportive care option when residents need more than our Enhanced Living Services can provide.  At Brio our team of licensed nurses and professional care aids offer on-going support, comfort and care around the clock.  Brio Care Suites are located at our residences at Royal Oak and Gordon Head in Victoria, and in Nanaimo.  Brio Care can be accessed for respite, short-term stays and post-hospital recovery assistance. Please contact your nearest Berwick for additional information about Brio Care.

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Are your suites subsidized?
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Answered on September 7th,2014

Financial subsidies, which are administered through Island Health (VIHA), are only available for Assisted Living and Complex or Residential Care in facilities with which Island Health has a working relationship. Subsidies go with the suite, not the resident. Berwick Retirement Communities does not have subsidized suites in any of its locations.

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May I have guests or family join me for meals?
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Answered on September 6th,2014

Yes!  We encourage your family and friends to enjoy our delicious meals and extraordinary service as your guests. We can accommodate your guests at breakfast, lunch, dinner & Sunday Brunch for a small charge.  Simply make a reservation at Reception and our Dining Room Supervisor will reserve the perfect spot for you.  For special occasions, or when family or friends wish to have a private get-together, we recommend our Private Dining Room as a special place to create great memories.

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