More than ever, today's retirees lead an active lifestyle. However, with retirement also comes the desire to come home to a place that doesn't require endless hours of upkeep -- yet offers space and style. Enter Sturgeon Creek II Retirement Residence, 707 Setter St., in St. James (across from Grace Hospital).
"The concept here is that we will present you with the finest amenities and services to enrich your retirement years," executive director Terri Hammerback said.
"There are 153 one- and two-bedroom suites here, and we provide all your meals, do weekly housekeeping, your laundry and offer a wide variety of activities. The suites are rentals; rent for one-bedroom suites ranges from $1,975 to $2,460, while rent for two bedrooms ranges from $2,975 to $3,200 depending on the plan you choose."
Although compact, both the one- and two-bedroom suites are well laid out, making the best possible use of space available. The two-bedroom display suite viewed measured in at 640-square-feet, yet felt much larger due its floor plan, high ceilings (over nine feet) and large windows.
A large, bright sitting area with fridge and sink, and two large bedrooms down the hallway -- each equipped with its own bathroom -- mean there is ample space, privacy and access.
"This suite represents one of seven different styles," Hammerback said. "They all have a fridge, sink and moderate amount of cupboard space -- many residents like to have breakfast in their suite. In most cases, we don't expect people will cook as all meals and snacks are included. The bedrooms are a good size, and have wheelchair-accessible bathrooms with features like low bathtubs, walk-in showers with handshowers and grab bars. There's also plenty of storage space with two double closets and a broom closet in two-bedroom units."
Single seniors can also rest easy knowing that the one-bedroom suites offer the room and creature comforts they need -- all at reasonable, all-inclusive price.
"We're proud of the way the suites have been designed. This one-bedroom unit (a 570-square-foot display model) is a very neat design. It's angular, with a huge storage closet at front, big sitting area with fridge, sink and cupboards, and a large bedroom that's adjacent to a large, user-friendly ensuite," she said.
Staff is on call 24 hours a day to ensure comfort and safety, she added.
"From what we've been told by residents, it's all a single person needs in terms of size and amenities. Smaller one-bedroom suites are also available."
While the suites at Sturgeon Creek II are eminently livable, the real focus at the facility is on what residents are going to do outside their home. Consequently, the complex has been finished with oak trim, eye-pleasing pastel colours and many amenities.
"The focus here is one providing an environment that encourages both relaxation and activity," Hammerback said.
"We have a full-time activity co-ordinator on staff, and there are amenities such as recreation and fitness rooms, a games and billiards room, hobby and craft room, movie theatre and shuttle bus for outings."
The residence features elements aimed at kicking back in style.
"There's lots -- a tranquil library, Internet lounge, main-floor bistro and coffee lounge with fireplace, spa, and beauty salon/barber shop. Services such as weekly linen and towel service, dry cleaning pick-up and delivery and laundry facilities on each floor really make for retirement living with a touch of luxury. When you eat lunch and dinner in the elegant dining room (which offers a separate dining area for parties or family functions), it feels like you're treating yourself," she said.
"And that's how it should be. People have worked hard, so they should enjoy themselves," she added.
With an excellent location, spacious and secure suites, and a host of amenities, active seniors looking for a new place to call home should consider taking a tour of Sturgeon Park II Retirement Residence.
lewys@mts.net
