Abbeyfield, a non-profit housing option for seniors, is celebrating 25 years in Canada.
The internationally recognized society began in 1956 in England and today there are over 800 worldwide.
“Abbeyfield houses provide a home within a home to seniors who are no longer able to live alone,” said Donna Caruso, house co-ordinator of the Grand Forks home, which has been here for 13 years.
“It offers a warm, family-style house with a balance between privacy and companionship, security and independence.”
Caruso told the Gazette that the home is supported living; with 10 private rooms, each resident has his or her own space; however, the dining area is a common spot and all the meals are provided.
At 98 years of age, Edna Robertson is the eldest resident.
“I’ve been here for about five years,” she said. “So far I think it’s very good. The people are just 100 per cent as far as I can see.”
Robertson said she enjoys the place because it’s social but she still has her independence.
“You’re on your own to a certain extent, like I have my own room (and privacy) ... but there is always somebody if I need it,” she added.
Fred Novak is one of the few gentlemen at Abbeyfield.
“It’s very nice (here), I love it,” he said. “The food is good, the accommodation is perfect; this is the way to go.”
Novak adds that the home is close to town, which makes it very convenient.
“I am here because I need an operation on my hip and even with a sore leg, I can walk downtown and there are two older women (that) walk every morning. They go shopping downtown and back.”
Susan Courtney, relief co-ordinator, said the residents are great.
“They are so easygoing and they love their food, especially the women, because they don’t have to cook anymore,” she said.
Caruso said Abbeyfield is very much like a big family.
“The residents are pretty good, most of them get along really well,” she said.
Abbeyfield is not a nursing home but it is supported by Home Support Staff from Interior Health, who visit four times a day, said Caruso.
Since opening in Grand Forks, Abbeyfield has provided a home for 47 seniors.
The house is completely run off the residents’ monthly rent, which falls under the B.C. Tenancy Agreement.
“It’s a non-profit society and a volunteer board administer the house which keeps the costs low,” said the house co-ordinator.
In celebration of 25 years in Canada, the society is dedicating the week of June 9 to 16 as Abbeyfield week.