Vanderhoof to be site of new affordable housing project for seniors, dementia-care patients

A new first-if-its-kind housing complex is being built in northern B.C. for seniors that require dementia-care supports on a daily basis.

Today (Feb. 26), the B.C. government announced a three-story development in Vanderhoof aimed to host those on low-to-moderate incomes and need on-site care as they adapt to everyday life.

The province explains the project is set to provide 28 units, including 20 one-bedroom rental homes and eight accessible studio units for patients in need of dementia care.

Construction is underway and set to be completed later this year with residents expected to move in by the end of 2021.

“This seniors and dementia health housing project is such a positive asset to the Vanderhoof community,” said Mayor Gerry Thiessen in a news release. 

“Not only will it give us a much-needed supply of one-bedroom apartments, it will also be home to adults suffering with dementia, which will be a significant benefit to the capacity concerns we have faced at St. John Hospital. There are so many who have made this unique-to-B.C. project a success – thanks.”

Location and information on a new first-of-its-kind affordable housing unit for seniors and dementia-care patients in Vanderhoof. By BC Housing/Screenshot

It’s a joint-partnership project between BC Housing, Northern Health, the District of Vanderhoof, Connexus Community Resources and the Centre for Technology Adoption for Aging in the North.

The province says it’s meant to act as a smooth transition for independent seniors slowly losing their cognitive function that may also need an extra hand with their day-to-day routines.

“For people living with dementia, having proper care close to home can make all the difference,” added B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix. 

“Our government’s investment will support residents in Vanderhoof to live in a home-like environment while continuing to be as independent as possible.”

The building is located at 2657 Church Ave.

It’s set to be under the management of Connexus Community Resources with assistance from Northern Health nurses that specialize in dementia care.