For those aged 55+, a change in residence is not a cookie cutter, one-size-fits-all solution. Every individual, at different stages of their senior life, has unique requirements that dictate how and where they live.
The Wellesley, a retirement community in downtown Victoria, understands that.
There are two sides to The Wellesley: the independent living suites and the assisted living suites. The independent living area is best suited to seniors who require little to no assistance with their day-to-day routine and appreciate the social component of outings and activities with other seniors, plus not having to cook daily is a welcome bonus.
“Dinners are provided and the option for lunch is there as well,” says Jeff Nahnybida, community relations manager for The Wellesley. For those who prefer to cook for themselves, that can be accommodated as well. “There are full kitchens with stoves in the suites, which sets us apart as most retirement communities in Victoria don’t have that. But for provided meals, we have a 1.5 hour window for lunch and for dinner times. It feels more like a restaurant service, as we start with your starter salad and soup, then entrée and dessert, rather than everything coming to your table at once.”
The assisted living side of The Wellesley has suites geared to residents that are somewhat mobile, can take care of themselves in general but may need some help with a few everyday tasks, such as taking medication, dressing, bathing, and laundry. “Extra care is offered through Island Health Care or privately,” says Nahnybida, adding “but our assisted side is not like living in a hospital – it's your own comfortable apartment in a vibrant community.”
The Wellesley retirement community recognizes that seniors want to stay engaged and active, so a variety of amenities, including a movie theatre, hair salon, craft room, and fitness room keeps folks busy. An interior garden courtyard and two rooftop garden spaces mean tranquil spots are available year-round. The recreation department has two coordinators that schedule events seven days a week, like outings to the Butchart Gardens, Salt Spring Island, and dinner theatres.
The staff is what sets The Wellesley apart from their competitors as well, and Nahnybida says “we have a chef who has been here for 35 years, and some of our team for twenty-five to thirty years, and that says a lot. The residents get to know everyone by first name. It’s like a family – we take care of each other.”
Open houses are planned regularly throughout the year. The team at The Wellesley encourages those interested in a tour to give them a call so they can take a stroll through their vibrant community and enjoy meals with the current residents.
To register for the next open house and to find more information on retirement living at The Wellesley, visit www.retirementconcepts.com/the-wellesley
