55+ Sept 2022

Darren CJodiGeoffourtney

Lakeside Gardens is so comfortable.

Many of the staff have worked here for many years an d do th e job because they are passionate about it. There are a ton of activities my mom loves to go to the dances! She has her own 1 bedroom suite and has as much independence as is possible for an 88 year old.

Lakeside Gardens Family Member

VRS Communities:

A 50-year legacy of providing accessible housing in BC

By Ken Fraser, Executive Director of VRS Communities Seniors Living, including Ross Place in Victoria and Lakeside Gardens in Nanaimo

When

I was twenty-one years old, I broke my neck in a diving accident and have been confined to a wheelchair ever since.

Three years after my accident I was hired by VRS Communities, a non-profit organization based in Vancouver, as a housing placement officer. My job was to find wheelchair accessible housing in the community for individuals in wheelchairs.

This was no easy task in 1982.

I was passionate about my work, and it showed. I was later promoted to Accountant and then to Executive Director, a position I have held for the past thirty years.

At VRS Communities we have been creating housing solutions and services for clients in British Columbia for fifty years. Our story is one rooted in integrity, perseverance, and inspiration. Beginning our journey as a non-profit serving persons with disabilities, we now proudly serve thousands of individuals throughout the province including seniors and families. We believe in building communities where everyone experiences belonging, growth and independence.

Ten years ago, we identified a need in the seniors community for a high quality affordable housing option for middle income seniors. There were many high-end independent seniors living projects and some subsidized facilities in the market, but not a lot of options for middle income retirees to live in a safe and supported environment.

From this calling, a vision for VRS Seniors Living was born. We now proudly own and operate eleven seniors communities throughout BC and

Alberta, including Ross Place in Victoria and Lakeside Gardens in Nanaimo, and have more in the planning stage. One of our new builds on Vancouver Island includes Timberline at North Park, coming to Port Alberni in 2024 - a collection of 102 accessible retirement living homes.

What is unique about our seniors residences, is our commitment to quality and affordability – matching our words with the actions we take each day to bring those benefits back to our residents. As a non-profit, our bottom line is not something of interest to the board of directors – the exception being if we are running at a surplus, we are charging too much, or need to increase services. With this model we believe in a new way forward for seniors housing.

We are committed to bringing our service model to many communities in BC and to prove we can compete by delivering a better retirement solution for our Seniors. As we celebrate our 50th year milestone, we will continue to bring creative housing solutions for seniors with quality and inclusivity at the forefront.

5 Things to keep in mind when buying a home when you are over 55

With the majority of their realtors born and raised in Victoria, they pride themselves on knowing about neighbourhoods, the people who live there and the owners of local businesses. They enjoy promoting local restaurants and shops and thrive on being your source for information in addition to finding you the perfect home. The client success stories and sheer amount of testimonials on the McLean Group’s website prove that their

1 Find a qualified Financial Advisor: Ask your friends and relatives who they use and pick the top 3 and interview each one until you find a good fit.

2 How much of a mortgage can you afford? If you are not purchasing the property outright, it is a good rule of thumb to make sure your monthly payments don’t exceed more than 25% of your monthly budget.

3 Size of property: At this stage, your children may be out of your house, and larger living spaces are no longer required. You really need to assess how much square footage you need. Be ruthless!

4 Your living arrangements: Think about what type of property you want. Would you consider moving in with your family? Would you relocate to a condo or perhaps get a roommate?

real estate clients truly do value their experience, appreciate their organization and trust their strategies and negotiation skills.

Team leader Geoff McLean says “we particularly enjoy working with seniors and understand that selling and purchasing property can be overwhelming”, adding “we work with compassion and efficiency to ensure that our clients can focus on their lives, while the team focuses on their real estate”. Their successful comprehensive marketing strategy includes targeted Facebook advertising, email marketing, content, marketing and personalized 1-to-1 outreach.

5 Is outdoor space important to you? Would a townhouse appeal to you which would provide you with a bit of garden space so you can spend time outdoors gardening? Or would a condo suit you just fine? Whether relocating to or from Victoria, a first-time or experienced buyer or seller, you can count on the McLean Real Estate Group to help you out! They provide a complimentary home evaluation with no obligation, and always welcome questions.

Call them today at 250-744-5551 or visit mcleanrealestategroup.ca

Wed, September 28, 2022

A Victoria Times Colonist publication

Publisher: Dave Obee

Director of Advertising: Ed Kennedy #201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria, BC V9A 6X5

To advertise in the next issue and or submit content contact: Aaron Ross, 250-380-5313 aross@timescolonist.com

RETIRED BERWICK; ACTIVE LIVING.

PROUDLY SPONSORED THE 55+ BC GAMES

Held for the first time in Victoria!

Berwick’s commitment to creating active, inspired lifestyles for seniors complements the mission of the games: to celebrate healthy adults 55+ years of age through fun and competitive sports and recreation activities

We are so proud to have been a part of the 2022 Victoria 55+ BC Games.

Proud to be BC Family Owned and Operated

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The Power of a Procession

Written by Laura Van Sprang, Manager of Sands Funeral Chapel of Victoria

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Ican recall when I was around 8 years old, walking with my dad when we saw a long procession of vehicles coming our way. He told me we should stop and show our respect, as it was a funeral procession. He pointed out the long shiny black car and told me it was the hearse that was carrying the person who had died. He explained that all the other cars following with their lights on were that person’s family and friends and that they were processing together to the cemetery to bury their loved one. I remember they were all driving very slowly, much slower than the other cars usually did on that road. Most cars were letting them go by and some were even pulling over or stopping to avoid disrupting this respectful journey.

I knew this was an important event and was in awe of how everyone just knew what to do to show their respect. They too must have had dads who taught them about funeral procession respect when they were my age.

It was not too long after this, I attended my grandfather’s funeral and experienced being a part of a procession rst hand. There was a powerful feeling of importance

and community as I noticed the immediate attention from those on the road and sidewalk. Cars letting us go by, people on the street showing their respect; one man even removed his hat as we passed. My grandpa was certainly worthy of this recognition and effort and I remember feeling so proud. It felt right. I wonder what has changed since then. It wasn’t that long ago… this story is from 1984.

Now that I am in funeral service, I have had the honour of being a part of many funeral processions. I still nd myself lled with a sense of pride as we lead our cortege of professional vehicles through the community, with family and friends following in such a traditional and respectful way. But unfortunately that feeling gets interrupted more and more it seems, as the years go by. People do not slow down anymore, stop or let you go by. In most cases I nd they actually speed up to get around us, to not get “stuck behind” our procession. It makes me sad. And if it makes me sad, how does the family feel?

In a feedback survey Sands received from one of our client

families, we found out. We were pleased to read the positive comments about our staff and services, but one comment that was made, we discussed as a team in length. It read: “I know it is dif cult, but it would be nice if there was a way for us to follow the hearse without other cars cutting in on the way to the burial site”. This was the procession experience for this family, a very different one than mine in 1984.

Although we do our very best as funeral professionals to keep the procession together, ultimately if someone wants to cut in, they will. So after reading this, perhaps together we can help to change this fading community support for such a powerful tradition. And if you see a procession coming your way or in your review mirror… take a moment as we travel by to the nal resting place, to show your respect to the family and to the person we are honouring, who is being carried in the long shiny black car.

Since 1975, Avenir Senior Living has been a proven leader in developing, designing, marketing, and operating exceptional senior care communities across North America. Their newest upscale boutique retirement community, The Vista, in Esquimalt, British Columbia, is a resortstyle living experience with industryleading extended support services to comfortably age in place.

Esquimalt’s age in place luxury property ensures seniors’ safety and comfort

The Vista delivers resort-style living and flexible care with ocean, city views.

Retirement may be uncharted waters to you, but you’re the captain of your own vessel, and as such, you have a choice of how your adventure unfolds.

Keeping your wellness top of mind is an important factor in your pursuit of luxury senior living, while supporting your desire to age in place. Fortunately, a vibrant retirement living community on Vancouver Island is near completion and fills this niche seamlessly.

The Avenir Senior Living team is applying the finishing touches on The Vista, an 11-storey highquality building that supports a luxury independent retirement

lifestyle. Here, you’ll have the freedom to live well today, with the assurance your long-term needs will be met in the future.

The community is meticulously curated to deliver a continuum of care across a range of living environments, including 34 beautifully appointed one- and two-bedroom condominiums for ownership, 95 independent or supportive living suites for rent, and 48 dedicated memory care studios.

“We encourage folks to come in as independent residents, whether purchasing a condominium or choosing a rental suite,” says Wayne Melvin, general manager of The Vista. “Residents will have the ability to age in place with a menu of services that can be provided in their private suites. If the time comes when round-theclock support is required, we have two floors dedicated to provide a 24-hour support including specialized

memory care.”

The bespoke offerings are more akin to a five-star all-inclusive resort with state-of-the-art services and premium amenities that support residents’ mental and physical well-being. You have the flexibility to add services and care whenever your needs change, not change to a new building—you won’t have to relocate; a hallmark of living at The Vista, your forever home.

At some point, your daily routine might be easier if you can get help with personal care, or transportation to appointments, errands or events, for example, or it might be simpler if you don’t have to cook for yourself. As Melvin mentions, “having all your meals provided makes for a really fulfilling lifestyle.”

“Our assisted living services are available in your independent suite, with supports like administering medication, assistance with bathing, and selecting wardrobe,” explains Melvin.

“Some residents may need a little help getting moving in the morning, but are quite capable of continuing their day, perhaps eager to take in one of our art classes,

fitness classes, music sessions, or spa treatments—all the types of activities and amenities we offer. We’ve been described as a cruise ship on land—you can participate in as much or as little as you want.”

THE PEAK OF AMENITIES

Like the name suggests, a stunning 360-degree view envelopes the top floor through floor-to-ceiling windows, where the Grand Salon encompasses a host of superior amenities, backdropped by spectacular vistas of downtown Victoria and the ocean, out to the Olympic Mountains.

“The social dynamic keeps seniors vibrant,” says Melvin. “It’s been intentionally designed for community and comfort in mind, and we really took advantage of all the views around the building.”

Hemingwayesque touches bind the common spaces: the palm trees, Montmartre art studio, the library, and such, reflect the writer’s life and times.

Enjoy resort inspired dining prepared by Red Seal chefs in the Palm Dining Room and French Bistro, or partake in high tea in the English Garden Tea Room. Get in the groove in the Fred & Ginger

piano lounge, and don’t be shy to unleash your best moves.

A special space on the ground floor will house the Royal Canadian Legion, Esquimalt Branch #172, the original property owners.

HOME-LIKE ATMOSPHERE

Melvin notes, the gentle care and compassion provided are really something to behold.

“Our staff members become like family to residents. We’re not a revolving door of caregivers and we get to know you to provide that personal touch.”

“We’re proud The Vista and Avenir Senior Living are a familyowned company,” says Melvin. “Owners, Violet and David Craik take pride in designing communities they would be happy to live in.”

“Family members are grateful for the service we provide their loved ones, just as it gives us immense satisfaction that we’re doing good work in the community.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 778-402-4153 OR VISIT AVENIRSENIORLIVING.COM

SILVER THREADS SERVICE

CLASSES FOR

Try a new class this Fall

As an older adult taking a class is a good opportunity to connect with others after our long years of COVID isolation. You can try something new or rekindle an old favourite activity. It creates feeling of accomplishment, gets the brain firing on all cylinders and is fun. Lifelong learning is good for you! For those 55 years and better, Silver Threads Service offers over 80 different programs and services in two locations and a complete program listing is available at silverthreads.ca

OUR SAANICH CENTRE IS LOCATED AT 286 HAMPTON ROAD, IN THE TILLICUM GORGE NEIGHBOURHOOD.

For those who are musically inclined ukulele for experienced students begins Wednesday, October 26th from 10:30am to 11:30am. This is a lively class where players will learn new songs, new strums, new chords all in a friendly supportive environment. Teacher Molly Raher Newman (“Diamond Tooth Molly”) will bring her skills

and performing experience to help students gain an extra level understanding of the ukulele.

The Conversational French Workshop for those who already have some basic spoken French will further develop communication skills in a relaxed atmosphere lead by a qualified instructor from Alliance Française. Starts Thursdays, October 27th from 10:00am to 12:00pm.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THESE PROGRAMS CALL THE SAANICH CENTRE AT 250-382-3151.

OUR VICTORIA CENTRE IS LOCATED AT 1911 QUADRA STREET, NEAR THE POLICE STATION.

Celebrating 65 years of community ser vice to seniors!

Offering great programs &two locations to ser ve you.

Saanich Centre 286 Hampton Rd. 250 382-3151 Victoria Centre 1911 Quadra St. 250 388-4268

Visit www.silver threads.ca formoreinformation

*stay healthy *stay connected

For those who would like to explore music, Wednesdays from 10:30am to 12:00 noon is the Music for Everyone program. No experience is necessary as you play percussive instruments with the leadership of Shiri Music.

The Monday Song Circle with Patrick Smith is a relaxed place to come and sing with others. Music sheets are provided and features songs from various genres and decades. This month the group meets from 1:30 to 3:00pm on Monday, October 24th.

For those who don’t sing, don’t play an instrument but like listening to music, there is Music Bingo on Monday, October 3rd from 1:30 to 3:00pm. Listen to a short musical clip and if you have the artist or song on your card, mark it!

years, and we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for those looking to try out new experiences and classes. Membership is valid at both locations. For more information call the Saanich Centre at 250-382-3151 or the Victoria Centre at 250-3884268 or visit silverthreads.ca .

MEMORY PLUS CHALLENGE MUSIC WORD SCRAMBLE

Memory PLUS is a Silver Threads Service program for those 55+ who would like to enhance their memory skills in an active and social group setting. The PLUS stands for Practice, Laughter, Useful Strategies. We encourage you to exercise your brain by solving an all about Music scramble.

Registration is now on for the Fall session!

NEXT AVAILABLE SESSION IS: OCTOBER 26TH TO NOVEMBER 30TH. Classes at the Saanich Centre, located at 286 Hampton Road from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. The cost is 6 sessions - $54 Members or $78 Non-members. Call 250-388-4268 or visit www.silverthreads,ca for more information.

Rain shower or full-on typhoon, this H2XTREME® 2-layer storm shell is designed for maximum protection from high winds and rain showers -without the extra weight and bulk of traditional wet-weather gear. Performance features include ahigh-zip storm collar, adjustable hood, and hardwearing vision zippers.

See us for hundreds of other Stormtech styles. We have agood selection of vests, fleeces, golf jackets, rain-pants and warm jackets. FREE waterproof bag included with every purchase. Great for whale-watching trips!

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THESE PROGRAMS CALL THE VICTORIA CENTRE AT 250-388-4268.

Silver Threads Service has been serving seniors in Victoria for 65

EAR TH’S

WE COME TO YOU

All arrangements made in the comfort of your home and all pre-arrangements are fully transferable at no cost. Specializing in low cost cremation and green burial.

778.440.8500 Ear thsOption.com

Silver Threads Ser vice

Eating Well and Aging Actively

The saying “you are what you eat” is not far from the truth as a healthy diet not only keeps our body functioning optimally, but also provides the mental and physical energy for everyday life. Diet plays a critical role in protecting us from illnesses and diseases. And while nutrition plays an important role in any person’s life, the benefits for seniors are particularly significant. According to a Harvard publication, “lifestyle factors may help delay the onset of cognitive decline—the erosion in mental skills and memory often seen before dementia—and dementia itself.” Food plays a prominent role in Harvard’s lifestyle factors, suggesting that cognitive health may be bolstered by a diet rich with fruits, vegetables and healthy sources of protein while limiting red meat and refined carbohydrates such as sugar and white flour. Smart food choices can

also help control cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Tapestry, an industry-leader of active aging communities across Canada, understands that a healthy and well-balanced diet is a central element of aging well and staying independent longer. Across the full-service restaurant and casual pub, meals are prepared to order by professional chefs using the highest-quality, local, fresh and sustainable ingredients that reflect Victoria’s unique geography as well as the changing seasons. Menu selections are reviewed by a registered dietician and emphasize plant-based nutrients and highquality proteins – reflecting the goal of creating meals that are not only unique and delicious, but also healthy and balanced.

And with cooking and nutrition classes integrated within the daily calendar of events and activities, residents are inspired to continue

with their own culinary creations in the comfort of their own full kitchen.

Tapestry’s focus on nutrition is just one component of a unique, holistic approach that supports residents across the seven dimensions of wellness – which encompasses physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, environmental and occupational wellness. This truly is a great place to embrace a new age.

To experience the Tapestry difference for yourself, you can join them for a personalized tour of the display homes and enjoy a complimentary lunch. With Tapestry currently offering significant incentives whether you choose to own or rent, the time has never been better to explore Tapestry at Victoria Harbour by Concert.

VISIT TAPESTRYVICTORIA.COM OR CALL 250-419-4261 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

first year is

Don, Tapestry at Victoria Harbour resident since 2021