Who are you as a community?

Berwick Royal Oak is a truly innovative resort-style retirement residence that has taken the always high Berwick standards to a whole new level of affordable luxury. Every aspect of this 4.5-acre oasis reflects the consistently high quality of amenities, services and care provided — from the gorgeously landscaped gardens to the exceptionally comfortable and beautifully designed suites.

• 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, 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?

At Berwick Royal Oak, seniors can continue living comfortably as their needs evolve thanks to the availability of both independent living and assisted living in our community. Services and personal supports can be arranged as needed so residents can remain in familiar surroundings while receiving additional assistance. The focus is on maintaining independence while ensuring help is available when it is required. If a resident eventually requires 24-hour nursing care, our Brio Care Unit may be a good setting for their evolving needs. Should they require memory care, the family should work with Island Health or a local private pay community for assessment and placement in long-term and memory care.

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

Berwick Royal Oak is designed for seniors who appreciate a full-service retirement lifestyle with amenities, dining, wellness programs, and opportunities to connect with others. Someone looking for a very basic residence with limited amenities or minimal community interaction may find another setting 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 Royal Oak will continue building on the qualities residents value most: attentive service, engaging wellness programs, and a welcoming community atmosphere. The focus will remain on enhancing the resident experience while preserving the independence, comfort, and strong sense of community that define daily life at the residence.

What five facts about your community should people know?

1) We are the largest of all 8 Berwick's!
2) We have a full stage and gorgeous theatre with 125 seats.
3) There are 4.5 acres of spectacular landscaped walking gardens with waterfalls, water walls, bridges and ponds.
4) We have a pub! The Shield & Dragon is a community gathering spot where you can dine for both lunch and dinner and you can invite friends and family to join you as well.
5) Our Active Living team is led by a professional musician who performs weekly in our café. The team is made up of a kind and talented group which includes a Registered Nurse, and those with certifications such as a Masters in Gerontology, a Certified Recreation Therapist, a Ph D in Kinesiology, and a Masters in Counselling Psychology candidate.