Frequently Asked Questions
General
Residents of GISRA's living facilities (or Residents of Meadowbrook) are independent. Many still drive, all of our residents are able to manage their activities of daily living with minimal or no help.
Assisted living offers the same benefits, but is generally meant for someone who has significant health and/or mobility concerns. They therefore require more medical care and attention than someone living in an independent living community. GISRA does not provide assistance with activities of daily living.
Moving into an independent living community is a very personal decision, and people make the choice to move for many reasons. A few of the reasons people give us are that:
• their current home is a bit big for just them
• tasks like vacuuming and laundry are becoming harder to complete
• keeping up with yard work and gardening is becoming too hard
• cooking nutritious meals for themselves is proving to be a bit of a chore
• driving is a hassle and they prefer to have everything they need close by
• they’re looking for a strong sense of community and support
The types of services independent living offers will likely differ depending on the facility. Generally, you can expect to receive nutritious meals prepared for you, access to transportation, light housekeeping on your suite, and some laundry service. You’ll also have access to a strong social support network from the other residents and staff. You’ll have a huge variety of recreation of all levels, as well as a variety of arts, crafts, and other entertainment. It’s totally up to you how much, and when, you choose to participate.
Most independent living communities offer a strong sense of security. You’re free to come and go as you please and each suite is secure. All residents are equipped with a medical alert services call button that you can use for any sort of emergency. Although most people who live in independent living communities are still very mentally and physically capable, you’ll still find easy access to medical services, and health information.
Meadowlane
Meadowlane is similar to Meadowbrook. Both are residential projects of the Gulf Islands Seniors Residence Association (GISRA) and are managed by the GISRA volunteer Board of Directors. GISRA is a not-for-profit society that has charitable status with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Meadowlane is a 48 unit seniors’ residential facility that offers independent living in a community of age 65 plus. Meadowbrook and Meadowlane do not provide medical care. Greenwoods and Braehaven are both facilities that provide medical care for seniors who are unable to live independently. Meadowbrook and Meadowlane do not provide any level of medical care like you would find in Greenwoods or Braehaven.
Living in Meadowlane is estimated to be $3,000-$5,000 per month depending on the number of people and size of suite.
The suites are larger than the Meadowbrook units and larger than most senior’s suites on the island. Generally, the suites come in two sizes; a standard unit that has a living room, kitchen, eating area, bedroom, bathroom and a storage closet; and a little bit larger unit that has all of the features of the standard unit plus an additional guest washroom and another room for a den or office space. Every unit has a balcony which is large enough for a patio table and chairs as well as plants and an umbrella if you want one. The final square foot figures will be determined once we complete the “detailed drawings phase”.
Each unit will have the usual amount of in-suite storage cupboard in the bathroom, kitchen and bedroom. In addition, each unit has a dedicated storage closet.
In addition to the suite, heat, electricity, and water services, residents will enjoy an evening three-course meal, weekly housekeeping, laundry for major linens, 24/7 in-house security response, access to cable TV and internet connections, a library, media room, arts and crafts room, lounges, and outdoor relaxation and recreation spaces.
Moving into Meadowlane means you will have access to services which will make your life easier and safer while maintaining the same kind of independence you would enjoy in your own home. Our suites come equipped with small kitchens so you can cook on your own while also having access to our full-service dining room for evening meals. Laundry facilities are available on each floor of the building for personal items. Weekly housekeeping is included as is laundry service for major linens (sheets and towels).
Meadowlane does not provide a moving service. There are moving companies and independent contractors on the island that can assist you in relocating from your home to Meadowlane. When moving day comes, our staff will be available to welcome you and your movers as well as coordinate the access and use of the elevators and special parking.
According to Google Maps, it is approximately 350 metres from the front door of Meadowlane to the front door of Country Grocer. Salt Spring Transit Services runs right down Kings Lane.
Yes, there will be pathways on the property.
Residents are assigned one parking spot. We will provide EV plug-ins. In addition, we will have a dedicated space for scooter and bicycle parking which will also allow for electric scooters to plug in and charge.
We believe in the joy that pets can bring and work towards a smooth transition for your pets into our communities. Cats, fish, birds, and small dogs are permitted at the discretion of the Executive Director under the Pet Policy that forms part of the Tenancy Agreement. Pets that cause a disturbance to other residents will not be allowed.
Yes, the medical clinic will continue in its current location and will operate during construction as well as when the Meadowlane facility is completed and occupied.
Water for the medical clinic is provided by a North Salt Spring Water connection and will remain as such. There are three wells on the property; one is a shallow well that has been on the site for decades and will be dedicated to landscape and general maintenance water requirements; the other two wells have excellent quality and quantities of water and will provide more than twice as much water as we are required to supply by Island Health regulations.
There are no bathtubs in the suites. This conforms to our water conservation commitment. There is, however, a walk-in tub in the Spa area that can be reserved.