Looking for a New Home

As I sat down to write this column I was thinking about the many seniors housing tours I have experienced over the last 6 months. My most recent tour of a senior's housing project was the Maple Ridge Seniors Village a Retirement Concepts property at 22141 - 119th Avenue in Maple Ridge. It is part of the continuing evolution in seniors housing.

The cities of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Maple Ridge have been the beneficiaries of this new growth in senior's housing. From Belvedere Care Centre and its co located Residences in Coquitlam through to Amica at Mayfair in Port Coquitlam.

All the properties are centrally located on tree lined streets in quiet neighbourhoods and conveniently positioned near community services and shopping. As Jane Bryce the Marketing Coordinator of the Seniors Village Maple Ridge toured me though this newest property I thought "What a lovely home for all its guests." And I say guests as there is a common thread that runs through all these properties, a thread of quiet elegance, an elegance that seems so fitting for all those who residing here.

A sense of security, as sense of stability, a sense of dignity, places where the Eden Philosophy of dealing with loneliness, isolations and boredom are dealt with head on. These are retirement complexes providing very comfortable living spaces, beautifully appointed within well planned properties. Places one would want to be.

The developers and builders are becoming more and more competitive with one another. This is a huge benefit for their guests who can live in wonderful homes where the quality of life continues to improve. The new suites offer greater space and comfort. With each new property trying to outdo the previous sparkling light, each trying to exceed the previous standard, each offering more one wonders how far can they go?

In challenging times the developers are forced to get more ingenious with their marketing and with their offers, so for those looking to make a move, this maybe a good time to shop. Almost without exception every city is getting new facilities. The prices for the independent living units can begin from about $1,850 a month and up. Each company offers many varieties of amenities that are included so you will have to talk the managers and tour their facilities to find the right place you. Find out what you can reasonably afford and the luxuries you would like to include.

At the PASS Seniors Fair at the Wilson Centre in Pt. Coquitlam this coming September 19th weekend, you will have an opportunity to meet folks from some of these properties.
The fair also offers many other companies showing their wares and services that may enhance your life no matter where you live.

Life well and be involved,

David Hutchison