EXCLUSIVE: First look inside Vanderhoof’s new senior housing facility

The district Vanderhoof, BC Housing, Connexus Community Resources, and Northern Health, came together to create one solution for two problems: Parkview Place. A first-its-kind-facility in British Columbia. That solution is opening its doors to residents for the first time.

Parkview Place is a three-story housing facility that will house 28 people. On the top two floor are 20 rooms. Each room has a kitchen with appliances, a bathroom, balcony, and a bedroom that can comfortably fit a queen sized bed. These rooms are designed to support seniors who are living independently. Rent is based off a percentage of the resident’s income and typically ranges between $375 to $900 a month.

However, on the first floor is a different kind of living facility. Eight units—similar to the top two floors—are designed for residents who live with mild to moderate dementia. Each room can comes with closet space, a bathroom, and a flat screen TV. These eight rooms were created to get more patients out of the hospital.

“When we get them out of the hospital—which is unique about this place—is that now it’s creating flow in the hospital. You get people out of that long term care. Better quality of life, in community, then you’re able to move other people in the hospitals into those beds. Overall, it’s just a better all system for the community.” said Malachy Tohill, Regional Director of Operations in the North, BC Housing.

The eight units do not come with a kitchen. There is a community kitchen where residents will be able to cook their own meals—or get some assistance if they need it. It’s part of a new way that Parkview Place is helping residents regain and maintain their cognitive abilities. While it’s classified as a long-term care facility, the purpose of this housing complex is to encourage residents to do things for themselves.

“Our motto is doing with not for. We’re going to be encouraging them to participate in the home from cleaning, general housekeeping, laundry, cooking their meals, deciding what meals we’re eating that week.” said Julie Lidstone, Parkview Place Program Manager.

There will still be the same services expected from long term care facilities.

“24 hour supervision, so we’ll have staff outside 24/7. There’ll be an LPN who’ll provide some critical oversight to the other staff.” said James Simpson, Health Service Administrator for Omineca, Northern Health.

The facility also has the latest in memory care as well including circadian lighting and hydroponic gardens. Residents will be given opportunities to take part in activities with other guests, but have the freedom to go out on their own.

Some residents have already moved in.

“This place is perfect. The staff is good, the way its laid out. The light switches are all the right level…I got a balcony, I can sit out there and paint in the summer. So no, there’s no place better than this place, honestly.” said Ken Pridham, Resident.

Four residents total are living at Parkview Place and there are still spots open. Those interested can contact Connexus for more information.

by Oli Herrera

EXCLUSIVE: First look inside Vanderhoof’s new senior housing facility

What's Trending