Who are you as a community?

Berwick Comox Valley offers a resort-style retirement residence in a convenient downtown setting. This is West Coast living at its finest, truly affordable luxury—from carefully tended gardens and picturesque ponds outside, to the rooftop Lighthouse Lounge and a greenhouse with wonderful views of the waterfront inside. The options for relaxation and fun are limitless, so you can truly enjoy your active, independent lifestyle to the fullest. Come live on Vancouver Island with us in one of the most sought-after communities.

• Ownership: Private. A member of Berwick Retirement Communities

What do you do differently or uniquely well?

Berwick offers a resort-style lifestyle in unparalleled locations throughout British Columbia. it's inspired senior living designed to empower independent seniors to thrive, stay active and engaged. Our resort-style amenities and services enable residents to age on their own terms. With multiple dining venues from restaurant-style dining rooms and lounges to a grab n' go Bistro (Choices on the Fly) offering seasonal menus and local wines, fitness centres with state-of-the-art equipment, many thoughtfully designed multipurpose spaces for more opportunities to engage with others or pursue interests on your own time, expansive suites with kitchenettes, and a robust wellness program all designed to help you maintain your independence.

What supports do you offer residents as they adjust to life there?

As advocates for seniors, we believe that by learning about their lives and interests, and helping them articulate their needs and wants, we can truly facilitate the transition from a situation that is not quite working anymore, whether to our community or elsewhere. In the event that one of these amazing people decides to call Berwick their home, we are then able to welcome them in a way that says, “This is home.”

How are residents supported if their needs change?

At Berwick Comox Valley, residents are supported through a retirement lifestyle that emphasizes independence while ensuring help is available when needed. The residence offers services and supports that can be arranged and scheduled as needs evolve, allowing residents to continue living comfortably in their suite while maintaining their routines and connections within the community. If a resident eventually needs nursing care, our team supports the resident and family as they coordinate with private care facilities or Island Health regarding assessment and long-term care options.

Under what conditions would you advise someone against choosing your community?

Berwick Comox Valley is designed for seniors who enjoy an active, social retirement lifestyle. Residents here tend to appreciate opportunities for wellness programming, dining, events, and engagement with others. Someone seeking a very quiet setting with minimal activity or a highly clinical care environment should find another type of residence more aligned with their preferences.

What might residents find surprising about your community?

We are proud to be locally-owned and operated by father and son, Gordon and Chris Denford. From the opening of our very first retirement community, the Denford’s realized the importance of creating a warm and welcoming community that put the needs of our residents first. Gordon and Chris are actively involved in the development and operation of each unique location and their philosophy of accessible, approachable and effective listening allows Berwick to adapt quickly to the residents’ changing needs. Their openness and commitment to our residents can be felt in every aspect of life at all our Berwick’s.

How will your community change in the next five years?

In the years ahead, Berwick Comox Valley will continue building on the qualities residents value most: strong community life, engaging wellness programs, and a beautiful setting connected to the surrounding natural environment. We’ll continue to enhance services and experiences that support independence, wellbeing, and meaningful connections among residents.

What five facts about your community should people know?

- Our ponds entice regular visits (much to the enjoyment of residents and staff, not so much the fish) of Blue Herons, otter, and racoon.
- The two Garry Oaks that were saved when we did our extension have been voted for the list of the most beautiful trees in the Comox Valley.
- We are the only site with a Community Room that was regularly used by outside groups including the White Cane Club, Hospice, toastmasters, Elder college, knitting club, needlepoint group, Philosophy café and church.
- The house that was on the main site in the early 20’s (where the offices are now) was a bootlegger’s house.
- We have the most scooter parking of all the Berwick’s. Boasting 24 spots in 6 converted parking spaces.