FAQs - The Berkeley

Frequently asked questions

What makes The Berkeley different from other retirement residences?

The Berkeley offers a personalized retirement lifestyle for seniors with the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, independence and care. Our employees are warm, friendly and highly engaged, and they have the residents’ best interests at heart. Our buildings are inviting, intimate communities where residents quickly feel at home with a strong sense of belonging. Each of our buildings is in close proximity to amenities such as medical clinics, grocery stores and pharmacies. See our gallery of photos on our Lifestyle page.

What’s a typical day at The Berkeley?

The beauty of retirement living at The Berkeley is that there is freedom to live as you choose - always lots going on and friends with whom to enjoy your days. This might include taking an exercise class, going on a shopping trip, enjoying afternoon tea and musical entertainment, or taking in a movie. If you prefer a quiet day to yourself, you can choose to stay in your apartment – it’s up to you! Check out our activities’ calendars.

Mealtimes are wonderful opportunities to socialize with fellow 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. Check out our menus.

What if I should need some personal assistance later?

Our residents have varying needs that we know may change over time. We provide personal care as well as a variety of additional services to assist on a daily basis for a personalized experience. Check out Berkeley Care.

I don’t need assistance. Why would I move to a retirement residence?
Retirement living is a customized lifestyle solution for seniors who are lonely living at home and want to be free from the responsibilities of household maintenance both inside and out. The Berkeley allows you the freedom to live as you choose. Retirement residences are NOT nursing homes. At The Berkeley, people lead the same active, independent lifestyles they enjoyed in their own homes, with two exceptions; they enjoy the luxury of more leisure time because they no longer have daily chores such as housekeeping, grocery shopping and meal preparation, and there are many opportunities for socializing with other residents, as well as both in-house activities and off-site excursions. The Berkeley offers a personalized retirement experience for seniors with the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, independence and care.

What about safety and security at The Berkeley?

Personal safety is our top priority. A 24-hour emergency response system is standard in all apartments. A health care provider is onsite 24-hours a day. The main entrance is monitored 24-hours a day and a key fob is required to gain access as added security measure.

Will I be able to maintain my privacy?

While some areas of our buildings are meant to be shared, such as the dining rooms and lounges, your apartment is your own private space, furnished and decorated with your belongings. While there is always much to do, no one is ever obligated to participate in daily activities. If spending time enjoying quiet pursuits is more to your liking, you are always free to choose that option.

What size apartments do you have at The Berkeley?

We have a variety of sizes and layouts, and each building is different. During a tour, you will be shown the various options. We have everything from studios to two-bedroom apartments available. View our Locations page.

Can I afford to live at The Berkeley?

You would be surprised by how affordable it is to live at The Berkeley. If you consider your current cost of living, it is usually comparable, certainly more convenient and with regular access to a variety of social activities. To help you calculate and compare the many real costs of living in your current home versus living at The Berkeley, we’ve compiled a list that breaks down some typical monthly expenses all of which would be covered in your rent at The Berkeley:

Mortgage/rent/condo fees
Property Taxes
Groceries & prescription deliveries
Homeowners’ Insurance (**insurance for contents and personal effects would still be required**)
Utilities (water, electricity, fuel)
House Maintenance (furnace, plumbing, painting, repairs, etc.)
House Cleaning
Yard Maintenance (mowing, snow removal, raking, landscaping/gardening)
Alarm system monitoring
Transportation (taxis, buses, car insurance, gas)
Social Activities

View or download our Monthly Expenses Comparison Brochure

Will I have to move if I develop Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?

Changes, both physical and cognitive, are expected as people age and we want our residents to age in place comfortably. Our care reviews ensure both residents and their families are aware of any changes we observe. We are able to customize resident care by adding additional services if necessary. We are also able to offer Memory Care.

What are the steps I need to take to live at The Berkeley?

The first step is to schedule a tour. If you would like to move in, you will be asked to fill out an application form and have your family doctor complete a medical form. Next, you will meet with one of our nurses who will assess your healthcare needs. When you move into The Berkeley, you may not require care or additional services. Should your health change, however, a care plan will be developed for you and regular reviews will be completed to ensure your needs are always met.

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