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Billings Lodge:
Respected, family-owned retirement
residence is a truly caring place
Billings Lodge is a rare gem among retirement places.
One of the few independent, family-owned and
operated residences in the Ottawa region, it may be the
only address where the owner, Alain Brunet, is onsite
five days a week, greeting residents by name.
Sometimes he answers the phone.
In fact, this beloved family-owned residence – at
1180 Belanger Avenue, just off Bank Street in the city’s
south end – will celebrate 25 years of caring in 2009.
And that’s truly exceptional.
The sort of consistency, stability, reliability and
quality of care found here is virtually unheard of in
these parts and it’s a huge lifestyle advantage for the
people lucky enough to live here.
For their relatives, it’s equally beneficial.
Imagine never having to worry about the wellbeing
and quality of life of your loved one.
The same friendly, familiar faces are always there to
greet you. There’s continuity of care. And there’s the
wonderful reassurance of getting to know and trust the
friends, neighbours and caregivers that make up your
family member’s new community at Billings Lodge.
The residence is a bit like a family itself. There are
monthly residents’ meetings when the folks who live
here have a say in what’s going on. Simple acts of kindness
are the rule rather than the exception. Thanks to
the sensitivity and kindness of the experienced staff
members, people always feel included, welcome,
respected and valued.
You never, ever get lost in the crowd.
Billings Lodge is the
genuine article – a warm, welcoming,
wonderful place to live.
An impressive staffing ratio ensures exceptional,
hands-on service. “We staff better than anyone else in
the city,” says Director of Operations Gail Beaven.
The main residence features a variety of retirement
suites, combined with an inclusive program of services
and amenities.There are two special care floors for people
suffering from dementia who need a secure, supportive
environment with structured activities and
additional care. In fact, Billings Lodge has a stellar reputation
for its expertise in cognitive care. Many of its
referrals are from ARDU (the Alzheimer and Related
Disorders Unit), the Alzheimer Society and the CCAC
(Community Care Access Centre).
There’s also a connected 14-unit building that
offers fully equipped apartments. Residents living in the
apartment building can access the full range of services
and amenities in the lodge, from meals to leisure activities.
Wherever you go, the atmosphere is relaxed and
friendly – an unspoken invitation to enjoy yourself.
People do.
“When you live here, you get to know your neighbours
pretty quickly,” Gail explains.
“It’s just the perfect size, so that we get to know the
residents and their families.”
There’s a full activity and social program, with a bus
for special outings.Afternoon teatime is a big hit and so
is happy hour, complete with entertainment. And help
is always there, if and when you need it. Church services
and a beauty salon are right in the complex and outdoors,
the landscaped grounds include four patios and a
vegetable garden. Meals are a social event in the attractive
dining room and space is also available for family
gatherings.
There’s plenty to celebrate at Billings Lodge. For
details and a tour, call 613 737-7877.
November/December 2008 • Ottawa 2 • Fifty-Five Plus Magazine