Frequently asked questions

Whether you’re just beginning your research about retirement lifestyles, or you’ve been looking into this for a while now, you’re sure to have a few questions. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about Independent Retirement Living in general and Orchard Gardens Retirement in particular. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to contact us — we’re here to make your life easier in any way we can.

  • Yes. VRS Communities has 11 seniors communities across BC and Alberta, including:

    Lakeside Gardens in Nanaimo

    Ross Place in Victoria

    Pacific Carlton in White Rock

    Sunnyside Manor in White Rock

    Orchard Gardens in Kelowna

    Sunshine Ridge in Osoyoos

    Silver Springs in Vernon

    Charles Manor in Penticton

    Andover Terrace in Salmon Arm

    Shuswap Lodge in Salmon Arm

    Garneau Hall in Edmonton

  • Orchard Gardens is an independent living residence for self-directed living, providing rental accommodation with services and amenities for seniors who can live independently with minimal to moderate support.

    Long-term care facilities (such as homes for the aged and nursing homes) are designed for people who require the availability of 24-hour nursing care and supervision, sometimes within a secure setting.

  • Orchard Gardens chefs use the freshest, highest quality ingredients around. We pride ourselves on our high standard of quality cooking, prepared from basic ingredients. This is your home, and you deserve the best.

  • Orchard Gardens offers a wide variety of activities and our objective is to provide life-inspiring activities and events that will benefit our residents in every aspect of living. Coordinating opportunities for residents to discover purpose and passion through participating and volunteering, enriching their lives as well as those they serve.

  • While market rents at a retirement residence may vary by location and suite size, Orchard gardens offers an affordable and enriching lifestyle. All-inclusive Studio suites start at $2,600 per month and one-bedrooms start at $2,950. There are no expensive buy-in fees or long-term leases. Our agreements are all on a month-to-month basis, so we can prove ourselves one day at a time, month after month, year after year.

    Please download our free expense calculator worksheet to assist.

  • Orchard Gardens is pleased to provide a state-of-the-art wireless emergency response system. Should you require assistance during a medical emergency, our staff can respond immediately and dispatch the appropriate help you need 24/7.

  • Orchard Gardens encourages residents to make their living space their own. Feel free to bring all the comforts, furnishings and décor of your current home to Orchard Gardens.

  • Our community welcomes furry friends, including those that bark and purr. For complete details, please contact our Sales Manager.

  • The Short Stay Program is a trial stay option that may be suitable for older adults and families who wish to learn more about retirement living and how seniors engage with these environments, including living arrangements, dining options and activities. We also provide respite/convalescent stays. For more information, please contact our Sales Manager.

  • Meals

    • Three home-cooked meals daily
    • Continental breakfast daily
    • Snacks & refreshments offered in the Great Room and Country Kitchen

    Common Areas

    • Libraries and reading room
    • Wellness and exercise rooms
    • Landscaped gardens with pergola, and patios
    • Theatre, multi-purpose activity, and games rooms

    Suites

    • Kitchenettes with sink, fridge, and microwave
    • Pre-wired for phone, cable, internet, and individual thermostat
    • Fire alarm, sprinkler system, smoke detectors, and emergency lighting

    Comfort and Convenience

    • Complimentary laundry facilities
    • Smoke-free environment, air conditioned common areas
    • Daily safety checks, and weekly housekeeping
    • 24-hour staffing and emergency response

    Recreational Programs, Activities, and Services

    • Daily social, cultural, educational, and recreational activities
    • Exercise, fitness and wellness programs
    • Creative pursuits (arts and crafts, knitting, painting, and drawing)
    • Worship services

    Utilities

    • Hydro, gas, water, and basic cable

“What a wonderful community and home we've found for our Dad! The staff have been so caring and accommodating and as per my Dad, the food has been excellent. His apartment is quiet and perfectly sized and the grounds are just beautiful. But what takes a place and makes it a home is the warmth and good feeling you get when you come in. You feel that at Orchard Gardens. It feels alive with happy staff and happy residents mingling and socializing. We can't begin to describe the positive effect it's had on our Dad and how much younger and happier he seems. Our biggest regret is not moving him here sooner. Thank you Orchard Gardens. We are relieved and grateful to have found you.”

–Leslie

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