FAQs

Questions and Answers:

Q:	I’m not sick or frail yet. Why would I move to a retirement residence?
A:	Today, seniors remain active and stay healthy longer than ever before. It is important to remember that retirement residences are NOT nursing homes. At The Berkeley, people lead the same active, independent lifestyles they enjoyed in their own homes, with one exception; they enjoy the luxury of more leisure time because trustworthy, reliable staff take care of the chores such as housekeeping, yard work, shovelling snow, window washing and meals. Most importantly, there are many opportunities for socializing with other residents, as well as both in-house activities and off-site excursions.
Q:	What’s a typical day at The Berkeley?
A:	There’s always plenty going on and many other residents with whom to enjoy it! A day might include taking an exercise class, a shopping trip, a visit to the Art Gallery or a museum, or a day trip outside the city. You could also choose to stay home and visit with friends at afternoon tea. It might also mean listening to a musical group, playing games, enjoying Music Therapy, Bible Studies or taking in a movie. Mealtimes are wonderful opportunities to socialize with other residents or invite a friend or family member to visit. Residents are also welcome to host family and friends for a private party in one of our lounges or the private dining room whenever they wish.
Q:	What about safety and security at The Berkeley?
A:	At The Berkeley, personal safety is one of our most important priorities. A 24-hour emergency response system is standard in all units. A health care provider is available on-site to provide assistance around the clock. The main entrance is monitored 24-hours a day and the front door is locked as an added security measure.
Q:	I cherish my freedom and independence. I like to do what I want to do, when I want to do it. Will this still be possible living at The Berkeley?
A:	Living at The Berkeley can actually maximize a person’s independence because staff take care of so many of the time-consuming tasks associated with home maintenance. Without the burden of keeping up a house, people are finally free to call their time their own which will actually make it easier to do what you want, when you want.
Q:	Privacy is very important to me. Will I still have my privacy?
A:	While some of the areas of the buildings are meant to be shared, such as the dining room and lounges, your apartment unit is your own and is furnished and decorated with your own belongings. While there is always much to do, no one is ever obligated to join in on activities if they are not interested.
Q:	I’m healthy now, but what if I should need some personal assistance later?
A:	At The Berkeley, we recognize that some people might need extra assistance in the future and we are able to provide hourly personal care to our residents as well as a variety of services to assist you on a daily basis. A medical escort service is also available for doctor’s appointments and hospital visits.
Q:	Will I have to move if I develop Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?
A	We do our best to keep you in your original ‘move-in’ location. However, if your needs exceed your ability to live independently with some hourly care, then we will approach you and your family about a move to The Berkeley Halifax, located on Green Street, where we are able to provide more care and security.
Q:	What size apartments do you have at The Berkeley?
A:	Each building has slightly different sizes and layouts. When you take a tour, we will show you a few units so that you will know your options. We have everything from small studios to 2 bedroom units available, but not necessarily in each building.
Q:	What is the procedure for coming to live at The Berkeley?
A:	The first step is to schedule a tour of one of our buildings. You will be asked to fill out an application form and have your family doctor complete a medical form. Next we ask that you meet with one of our nurses so that your healthcare needs can be assessed.