Who are you as a community?

The definition of resort-style retirement living, Berwick on the Lake’s gorgeous, peaceful setting on Long Lake in Nanaimo is perfectly complemented by the superior quality of the amenities and services we provide. This is affordable luxury at its finest, with an abundance of fine features along with 24/7 monitoring & security. Contact us today to arrange a personal tour. We look forward to seeing you.

• Ownership: Private. A member of Berwick Retirement Communities
• Languages Spoken: English

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, a grab n' go Bistro and traditional English pubs 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?

As residents’ needs evolve, they live comfortably through the availability of both independent living and assisted living within the same community. Services and supports can be arranged to provide additional assistance while residents remain in familiar surroundings. The focus is on maintaining independence while ensuring help is available when it is needed. If a resident eventually requires 24-hour nursing care, the resident’s family member should work with Island Health or a local private pay long term care community for assessment and placement in long-term care.

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

Someone seeking a very basic lifestyle with limited amenities or minimal community interaction may find another setting more aligned with their preferences. Berwick on the Lake appeals to seniors who value a full-service retirement lifestyle with amenities, dining, wellness programs, and opportunities for social engagement.

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?

Berwick on the Lake will continue building on the qualities residents value most—strong hospitality, engaging programs, and attentive service. The focus will remain on enhancing wellness opportunities and community life while maintaining the welcoming environment and beautiful waterfront setting that define the residence.

What five facts about your community should people know?

Berwick on the Lake is nestled at one end of beautiful Long Lake. The lake is stocked with trout, bass and is home to a variety of wildlife including Canada Geese, Mallard Ducks, Mergansers, Trumpeter Swans and frogs.

Berwick on the Lake boasts its own floating gazebo and dock where residents can relax and enjoy the activities on the lake which include fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing.

Berwick on the Lake's private dining room displays exquisite and unique stained glass windows that were custom ordered from Germany.

Berwick on the Lake's patio water feature contains a large carefree whimsical frog that instills a sense of fun and lightness to residents and staff alike.