If you want to hear the real story of living at the new Gateway Lodge in Prince George, you need to talk to the residents.
They'll tell you exactly how it is in the $42 million retirement home that held its official opening Friday.
Resident Gladys Griffin said she just "thanks anyone who had a hand in the planning" of her new home.
"I've found security, friendship and fun. Our units are lovely and spacious, and the caregivers listen to all our cares and woes with a smile, and sometimes that's not easy," Griffin said during the official ceremony held in the 50-unit assisted living area that began accepting residents in March.
"It's a beautiful place," said resident Anne Orton. "My family sees me with a happy face."
She added the staff, management and food are all great, and the coffee breaks with the little treats are a bonus.
As well, resident Joan Welch said she enjoys the "range motion" exercises, bingo, entertainment and 24-hour emergency response.
Assisted living is for those who still live fairly independently and don't require complex care.
When assisted living turns into long-term care, it's a short move to the other side of the facility where 94 complex care residents are housed with around-the-clock nursing care, wheelchair accessibility, patient lifts and support devices.
MLA Pat Bell (Prince George North) said he likes that idea of just moving down the hall when that time comes. "It's a known fact that the less moves a person has to make means a better quality of life."
Shirley Bond, MLA for Prince George-Valemount sees the Gateway, constructed mainly of wood by Western Industrial Construction, as warm and physically attractive with special details that make it an award-winning place.
