“Planning ahead is such an important thing to do for those wanting to maintain their independence and move into a retirement community of their choosing,” says Loren Butler, Community Relations Manager at Berwick by the Sea in Campbell River.
While being at full capacity is fantastic news for Berwick by the Sea, and certainly a testament to the sense of community residents enjoy, it also means those hoping to join the Berwick family will likely be waiting six to twelve months for a suite.
“We’re currently working off a waitlist, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t steps that individuals and couples can take to ensure they’re ready when space becomes available,” Butler says.
Even if moving to a retirement community is still a few years down the line, Butler suggests getting the process started sooner rather than later.
“We generally suggest individuals and couples set up a tour, which we’re still offering despite our full capacity status, and for those interested in next steps, we suggest spending a few nights with us in one of our guest suites, to get a taste for what life at Berwick is like,” Butler says. “Once you’ve had a tour and a short-term visit, we then suggest adding your name to the waiting list.”
At that point, Butler suggests taking a few additional steps towards being ready when a suite becomes available.
“Once a suite becomes available, things generally move quite quickly. Due to the high demand for our residences, we usually request that the next on the waiting list make a decision within 48 hours. If they decide they want the suite, they’re generally moving in within one or two months,” Butler says.
“Due to the quick turnaround, we encourage those on the waiting list to start the downsizing process early. This can help reduce the stress and help facilitate a smooth transition from a private home to their new home at Berwick.”
It’s also a good idea to create a plan B with family, should someone on the waitlist need additional support before a suite becomes available at Berwick. This could include a temporary living situation with a family member, for example.
Ready for a closer look at life at Berwick by the Sea? Stay tuned for updates on an open house later this spring!
Learn more about Berwick Retirement communities online at berwickretirement.com or book a tour with Loren today at Berwick by the Sea in Campbell River.
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