Memory Care in Winnipeg

Understanding Memory Care

Bergen Gardens offers a dementia-friendly community where people living with cognitive challenges, such as Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, feel safe and supported by the people in their community. With a uniquely designed environment, we focus on balancing quality of life with safety.

At Bergen Gardens, 48 private healthcare suites are grouped within four Cottages, with 12 people in each. Elders all have their own private bedroom and bathroom and share a common area with kitchen, dining, and living rooms. Each Cottage is its own neighbourhood, where meals and activities are planned as a group.

What Is Memory Care?

Memory care refers to specialized support and assistance provided to individuals experiencing cognitive impairments, particularly those with memory loss, such as Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Memory care services are designed to address the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals with memory-related conditions.

How Alzheimer's Is Different From Dementia

Alzheimer's and dementia are distinct conditions, but both require understanding and support. Dementia is a broad term encompassing cognitive decline, while Alzheimer's refers explicitly to a common type of dementia. Dementia care approaches can vary based on the specific type of dementia, but the goal remains the same: Creating a safe and supportive environment, managing symptoms, and providing emotional support. Although there is no cure for dementia, enhancing the quality of life through regular check-ups, medication management, and access to support is essential for those affected.

Quality of Life in a Memory Care Facility

Memory care facilities offer a safe place for people with memory loss to live, thrive, and socialize with their peers.

Managing Dementia Symptoms for Better Quality of Life

Cottage members have the opportunity to utilize all of Bergen Gardens’ leisure and common spaces with the support of wristband technology, which ensures safety and security 24 hours a day. We believe that when people are surrounded with opportunities to connect with pets, nature, and people of all ages, they will continue to thrive and grow. Our partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba ensures we are able to optimally implement best practices for those living with dementia, as well as assisting their families.

Services Include:

Nurses and HCA’s on staff 24 hours a day
All three meals and any snacks in between
Life Enrichment activities
Laundry/Housekeeping weekly
WanderGuard
SafelyYou - Fall Detection in suite
Incontinence Products
Laundry Detergent
All Utilities included

Integration Into Memory Care in Winnipeg

Studies have shown that those living with cognitive impairment can rapidly decline as soon as they move into an institutional care setting. Part of the reason for this is that institutions depersonalize the individual, and their care needs become a task on someone’s list for the day. Well-meaning staff in that setting are efficient and want to speed up the process of care, typically taking over the tasks and doing everything for their client rather than helping them be independent. As a result, people may lose the ability to take care of themselves, others, and even their pets. Without these productive daily activities, they lose a sense of purpose and may decline very quickly.

At Bergen Gardens, we support our citizens, regardless of their care needs, to help them keep up their daily routines from home if they are physically able to and if it still brings meaning and purpose into their life. We work with our citizens to carry out these tasks at a time of their choosing rather than what is convenient for us. Some examples of tasks we assist with include: Cooking meals, assisting with laundry, cleaning their own suite, interacting with others in the community, participating in leisure offerings, caring for a pet, and much more.

Trained To Intervene: Our Memory Care Approach

Special care is taken to ensure that all Care Partners and those living at Bergen Gardens—whether it’s a spa worker, fitness assistant, or a next-door neighbour—are educated and get comfortable with how to accommodate or assist should a challenging situation arise. As a dementia-friendly community, we understand that all behaviour has meaning, and when we know people really well, we are able to adapt our responses to meet their needs at every level.

Leaving Safe Environment: Transitioning to Memory Care

At Bergen Gardens, we make sure that people are safe even when they lose focus on their tasks at hand, whether that’s going for a walk or feeding a pet.

How To Prepare for the Transition to Memory Care

Over time, a person with dementia may have trouble problem-solving, communicating, and recognizing their surroundings. As a result, they are at risk of becoming lost, even in familiar places. We understand that all behaviour has meaning, and sometimes a person starts out on a journey to a place they have in mind, leaving their home suite. Our responsibility in such a situation is to ensure their safety, and if they need to make that journey, we support them by getting them where they want to go and then back to their suite safely. The wayfinding and navigation of Bergen Gardens have been designed with that practice in mind, providing pathway endpoints and features to help the person pause and find things of interest.

How Security Is Handled in Bergen Gardens

At Bergen Gardens, we have several systems in place to keep residents and staff safe.

Ensuring Safety and Comfort in Memory Care

While there will be the use of technology and wristbands that trigger alarm notifications to Care Partners in particular areas of Bergen Gardens, our citizens will also have the opportunity to enroll in the Safely Home program. This program is endorsed nationally by the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada. The program assists in helping to identify a person with dementia who is lost in the greater community and ensuring they are returned home safely in a timely manner. Being proactive, all Care Partners at Bergen Gardens are also specially trained in the proper steps to follow to locate missing elders.

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Worry-Free Living With Services And Amenities

One of the greatest benefits of choosing a 55+ community is leaving behind home maintenance hassles and gaining peace of mind through comprehensive services such as:

Regular housekeeping and linen services to keep your suite fresh and comfortable without lifting a finger
Flexible meal plans featuring chef-prepared dishes that are both nutritious and delicious, offering variety and accommodating dietary needs
24/7 on-site staff support for emergencies and general assistance, so help is always nearby
On-site wellness and healthcare services, including visiting physicians and therapists to help you stay healthy and active

This worry-free lifestyle means you can focus on what matters most—enjoying your time and the community around you.

Vibrant Community With Events And Engaging Activities

Life at Bergen Gardens is rich with opportunities to connect and thrive. Our full calendar of events and programs keeps residents active and engaged every day, with options like:

Movie nights in the Empire Cinema
Fitness classes designed for all levels
Creative workshops like painting, crafts, and music sessions
Social gatherings, including happy hours at the licensed Hometown Spirits lounge

These events foster friendships, encourage new hobbies, and promote a strong sense of belonging.

Your Perfect Location, Just Outside Your Door

Bergen Gardens offers the perfect combination of peaceful community living with convenient access to everything you need:

Shopping: Close proximity to grocery stores, pharmacies, and retail centres for daily essentials
Medical Services: Nearby clinics and hospitals ensure timely access to healthcare professionals
Parks & Green Space: Steps away from scenic walking paths and natural areas for fresh air and gentle exercise
Public Transit: Convenient bus routes make visiting family, attending appointments, or exploring the city easy
Parking: Ample parking available for residents and visitors, including accessible spots

This ideal location balances tranquility with convenience, so everything you need is always within reach.

LIFE AT BERGEN GARDENS

Living at Bergen Gardens means belonging to a vibrant, engaging community where you can pursue your passions and connect with others. Residents enjoy amenities like:

The Empire Cinema for movie nights and special screenings
The Hometown Spirits lounge—a licensed bar perfect for socializing
Art studios and creative spaces to explore your talents
Game rooms, puzzles, reading lounges, and quiet spaces for relaxation

Frequently Asked Questions

What services are included in the rent?

Rent includes your suite, access to common areas and amenities, housekeeping, some meals, and utilities. Care services can be added based on your needs.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Yes, residents must be 55 years or older to qualify for a senior living suite at Bergen Gardens.

Are pets allowed?

Yes! We welcome small pets and have amenities like a dog run and pet wash station to help you care for them.

How secure is Bergen Gardens?

We offer 24/7 security, keycard access, emergency call systems, and trained staff on-site at all times. Memory care areas also include secure entrances and wristband access.

Will I be able to walk indoors to the surrounding areas?

Our building is designed with spacious, indoor common areas and paths that allow residents to walk comfortably indoors year-round. While there is no indoor access to surrounding businesses, we are well-connected with nearby walking paths and public transit.

What’s the difference between Senior Living and Memory Care Cottages?

Senior living offers a range of independence with optional care services. Memory care cottages are specially designed for residents with memory loss and provide 24/7 specialized support in a secure, home-like environment.

Do you host events or recreational activities?

Absolutely. We offer a full calendar of events, including fitness classes, art sessions, group outings, and live entertainment to keep residents active and engaged.