55Plus October 25, 2022

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

The Vista delivers resort-style living and exible 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 lls this niche seamlessly.

The Avenir Senior Living team is applying the nishing touches on The Vista, an 11-storey high-quality 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-the-clock support is required, we have two oors dedicated to provide a 24hour support including specialized memory care."

The bespoke offerings are more akin to a ve-star all-inclusive resort with state-of-the-art services and premium amenities that supports residents' mental and physical

well-being. You have the exibility 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 ful lling 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, tness 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 oor through oor-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, re ect 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 oor 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, visit avenirseniorliving.com

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 resort-style living experience with industry-leading extended support services to comfortably age in place.

SILVER THREADS SERVICE

ON JOINING THE CLUB….

Grandparents being involved and are now - gasp – getting to the age of eligibility. Know that we have evolved and are cooler than you might think. How cool you ask? Led Zeppelin was played in a Fitness Class the other day and the book “50 Shades of Grey” is consistently out of the Book

Leading Libraries. Sure we still sing, dance, make stu , but we also are into tech, creativity and life long learning. So come be a part of the club.

Our complete Fall Program Guide is available at silverthreads.ca

Being a member is about knowing that you’re not on your own and that you share experiences with other people. For those who are 55 years and better, Silver Threads Service o ers a wide variety of programs and services at two locations. If you have thought about taking a class, getting a little exercise, trying a new sport, game or creative endeavour in a relaxed and positive setting with likeminded folks, we may be just what you need!

Annual membership is valid for April to March and is currently pro-rated to $35 to the end of March. By purchasing a membership, you will pay reduced fees for classes, have access to both Centres and over 80 classes a week. It is a great way to test drive – and get over the fact – that yes, you are joining a “seniors” centre.

Some of our activities are ageless – like Yoga or Tai Chi. People from teens to older adults are taking advantage of the restorative and relaxing benefi ts

of these activities. We o er classes that are seated, standing and floor based for all levels. You won’t get yourself in a position that you can’t get out of! The cost benefi t of membership will be a 6-class session for $54 compared to $78 for non-members.

There are nine di erent Games Programs each week and you can sign up as it fi ts your schedule for the members rate of $2. Social Bridge, snooker, mahjong, crib and scrabble are all on o er, because really, there is only so much solitaire and Candy Crush you can play by yourself.

Silver Threads Service has been serving the community for 65 years. For those of us who grew up in Victoria we may recall our

Our Saanich Centre is located at 286 Hampton Road, in the Tillicum Gorge neighbourhood and can be reached at 250 382-3151. Our Victoria Centre is located at 1911 Quadra Street, near the Police Station and can be reached at 250 388-4268

MEMORY PLUS CHALLENGE MEMBERSHIP 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 membership scramble.

REGISTRATION IS NOW ON FOR THE FALL SESSION!

Next available session begins October 26th to November 30th.

Classes are at the Saanich Centre, located at 286 Hampton Road from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

cost is 6 sessions - $54

or $78 Non-members.

250 382-3151 or visit

for more information.

of Advertising: Ed

Road, Victoria,

#201-655

250-380-5313 aross@timescolonist.com

The Social Butter ies

UP-COMING EVENTS CALENDAR

• Saturday November 5:

'Dead Ringer'Zachary Stevenson Chemainus Theatre @ 2:00pm Lunch 12:00 noon Cost $220

The Chemainus Theatre presents award winning actor Zachary Stevenson & his All Star Band. A tribute concert. Intimate stories & iconic songs. A charming glimpse inside the actor's life. "proof that singing legions never die" *Cost includes door-to-door transportation, show tickets, 3-course lunch & a drive up our beautiful island. Limited # of excellent tickets available and not much lead time. Be quick to book! We love the Chemainus Theatre!

• Tuesday November 15:

Relive the Music

Royal Theatre @ 7:30pm Dinner 5:00pm (restaurant to be announced) Cost $165

A ‘one of a kind’ show that takes the audience through music history, trivia & memories of the 50's & 60's.

Energetic band, amazing singers & costumes, & trends & dancing. Transforming & reliving through 2 decades. 19 standing ovations in a row & sold out shows - not to be missed!

• Sunday December 4: The Nutcracker!

Royal Theatre @ 7:00pm Dinner 4:45pm (restaurant to be announced) Cost: $185

Classical ballet. Canada's wonderful Royal Winnipeg Ballet, plus live music from our beloved Victoria Symphony. A snowy pond, a battle on Parliament Hill, Mounties & a cast of Canadian critters, plus stunning Ukrainian costumes, make this production memorable! Dazzling & classy … BRAVO!

A not to be missed, seasonal favourite! Be quick to book. Technically supreme dancing. A knockout – Calgary Herald Hot ticket! – New York Times

• Wednesday December 7: Holly Jolly Christmas! McPherson Playhouse @ 7:30pm Dinner @ Thai Lemongrass 5:00pm Cost $160

“It’s only rock n’ roll…but we LIKE it”

Zachary Stevenson is the main attraction & host, along with the Legends All Star band - the man from The Buddy Holly Story. Ben Klein performing as Elvis & Cassandra Jean as Brenda Lee. Hear all the big hits, plus a sprinkling of your favorite seasonal tunes.

Imagine Your Best Possible Self

The Social Butterflies 2 Col x 1 Row

T

hink about your life in the future. Imagine that everything has gone as well as it possibly could. You have worked hard and succeeded at accomplishing all of your life’s goals and dreams with respect to family, friends, health, hobbies, goals, character, and other aspects of life. What did you imagine?

As a part of an ongoing study through Harvard University*, researchers are examining how we ourish. Early results of this study suggest that by answering these questions one can experience positive effects on their happiness and life satisfaction, increase

optimism, and possibly health.

Residents of Tapestry at Victoria Harbour are empowered to imagine their best selves anchored by the Seven Dimensions of Wellness. The result is an awardwinning wellness-focused seniors’ community that encourages residents to pursue their passions, nd purpose in their community. and achieve happiness in their lives – whether that means painting, exercising, lawn bowling, gol ng, music, or another hobby or activity.

This past summer, members of Tapestry’s 'Sip & Stitch' Club created a beautiful quilt and then organized a raf e, fundraising over

$18,700 in support of displaced Ukrainians in Victoria. Meanwhile another group of Tapestry residents ful lled their lifelong dreams of skydiving, soaring 10,000 feet above Campbell River.

While these Tapestry residents’ achievements are nothing short of extraordinary, you can learn more about Tapestry and how they can help you live your life to the fullest. Visit Tapestry at Victoria Harbour today for a personalized tour and a complimentary lunch by contacting 250.419.4261 or TapestryVictoria@ ConcertProperties.com

Tapestry’s Sip & Stitch Club ra ed the quilt they made to support displaced Ukrainians in Victoria.

Tapestry Resident, Bobbie, skydiving at the Campbell River Skydive Centre.

Tapestry resident, Don, enjoying a game of lawn bowling.

year

Tapestry at Victoria Harbour resident since

A New Retirement Living Community for Vancouver Island Seniors

in the Alberni Valley will soon have a new option for housing. On September 20, VRS Seniors Communities broke ground on a 102-unit retirement community in Port Alberni: Timberline at North Park. Timberline will provide Island seniors with well-designed homes, a full range of services and programs, and a chance to safely age in place.

Seniors

be completely accessible, with the remainder universal-designed and adaptable as residents’ needs change over time.

“Timberline at North Park will provide safe and secure homes for our residents with services designed for seniors of a variety of ages, interests, and abilities,” said Andrew Trinder, director of VRS Seniors Living, during the groundbreaking event. “We are proud to be a new part of this community and be building homes for local seniors in Port Alberni.”

The ve-story building will have a West Coast modern design and offers studio, one- and twobedroom options for independent seniors living. The building's design includes a clubhouse with amenities such as a dining room, lounge, commercial kitchen, bistro, e-learning centre, tness room, games room, and community gardens. Twelve of the units in the 100,000 square foot facility will

Port Alberni was identi ed as having a high need for this style of home based on an aging demographic in the area. The location, in the 3500 block of Anderson Avenue, is close to community trails and aims to be part of a master-planned community that is under development in the area. In addition to providing new homes, the project will enhance the local economy by hiring local staff to run the facility.

ABOUT VRS COMMUNITIES SOCIETY:

VRS Communities Society has been providing homes for seniors, people with disabilities, and families for 50 years. As a non-profi t, every dollar earned goes back into quality housing and services.

Timberline at North Park is the 12th property on VRS’ roster of seniors’ homes throughout the province including Ross Place (Victoria) and Lakeside Gardens (Nanaimo) on Vancouver Island.

Ross Place Retirement Residence

Benefits of walk-in tubs

As we age and begin to lose our mobility and sense of balance, bathing can not only become dif cult but also a cause of additional stress and anxiety. Fear of falling and a fear of not being able to get out of the tub are two of the most common occurrences with many of our seniors today. Walk-in tubs have become extremely popular in the last decade and estimates show that people who go ahead and install a walk-in tub in their homes today, will be able to live independently for an additional ve years.

Walk-in tubs are exactly what the name implies, tubs that have large doors that open, and you simply walk in and sit down on a 17-inch-high seat. You close and lock the door and the tub lls rapidly while you are sitting comfortably and safely inside. All the taps and controls are easily accessible at your ngertips. Once you are done your bath, turn the dial and the tub quickly drains and you simply open the door and walk out of the tub. The various models all have numerous grab bars and non-slip surfaces making getting in and out worry free. Walk-in tubs are designed for an aging population who desire to remain independent for many years to come.

Manufacturers have optional tub designs accommodating every shape and size of person and bathroom. There is a tub size that will t in the space where your existing tub or shower is. Walk-in tubs can be as basic as a soaker tub to as deluxe as your own personal spa. Offering numerous options such as heated back,multispeed warmair jets, water jets, ozone, light therapy, aromatherapy, and more.

The bene ts of a walk-in tub are numerous. Many people crave being able to con dently have a bath again and nd relief by just soaking in a warmtub. Owners say they believe they sleep better after a soothing bath. The warm air or water jets give a deep massage and help to stimulate circulation,

thus carrying additional healing oxygen throughout the body to the hands and feet. This has shown positive results increasing mobility and helping to relieve the pain and symptoms of such conditions as arthritis, chronic back pain, bromyalgia, diabetic and peripheral neuropathy, as well as various other acute and chronic conditions.

The Canadian Government website states that 1 in 4 seniors fall every year, and 25% of these falls are serious, leaving the victims permanently disabled and bedridden. A large percentage of these falls take place in the bathroom. Aside from all the pain and suffering it also ends up costing the Canadian medical system two billion dollars

annually. Therefore, the British Columbia and Federal Governments are helping many people who decide to purchase a walk-in tub now. The help comes in the forms of a tax credit, a Provincial Sales Tax waiver, and in certain qualifying cases a $7,500.00 Government Grant.

As we all age and the years y by, many seniors are faced with the reality that taking proactive steps today and deciding to retro t their homes with a walk-in tub is one of the best investments they can make to help them age in place, comfortably and independently in the home they love. Sponsored content provided by Walk-in Tubs Fraser Valley. walkintubsfraservalley.com

Improve your health at the Nature Sanctuary

Spending time in nature provides many bene ts including reduced stress, improved health, and increased mood. Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is an accessible green space in the heart of the Great Victoria landscape where you can nd deep and unique connections to the natural world. Your body and mind will be more relaxed and your immune system will be boosted, as you take a pause to enjoy the wind in the trees, catch a glimpse of an elusive otter or wren and breathe in the smell of r.

The Nature Sanctuary is offering several fall and winter classes as opportunities to improve your nature connections and promote healthful living. Join a Wellness Wednesday session to slow down and experience immersive nature observation and journaling. Attend a Seasons of the Year workshop to discover creative and community building activities which honour and explore the seasonal cycles of nature. For those wanting to learn about native

species and ecosystems, attend a Saturday session of Marvelous Mushrooms or watch for spring Native Plant workshops. Discover all the opportunities at swanlake. bc.ca/in-person-programs

You can also simply come explore the Nature Sanctuary! Observe birds, river otters, willows and rushes from the boardwalk spanning the lake. Carve out an hour to wander the trails through wetland marshes and Garry Oaks meadows. Watch clouds and raptors soar overhead. Pop by the Gift Shop and nd a memento for your journey or a sweet note card for a friend. Improve your health and mental well-being as you prioritize nature immersion, creativity, and learning at the Sanctuary.

You can help support the vital preservation of green spaces at the Nature Sanctuary by becoming a member, volunteering, or donating.

Visit swanlake.bc.ca or contact info@swanlake.bc.ca to learn more.

DISCOVER

N ature S anctuary Workshops

about local ecosystems and increase your connection to nature info@swanlake.bc.c a 250.479 0211 @SwanL akeN ature

today!