The University of Waterloo will soon host a new centre of excellence for research, training and innovation in senior health care and wellness.
Feridun Hamdullahpur, president of the University of Waterloo, says "Never has there been anything of this kind that covers a very broad spectrum of areas."
A group including the Ontario government, University of Waterloo, Conestoga College and Schlegel Villages will be providing funding for the $130-million construction project plus ongoing operating costs.
The three phase development will begin with a 192-bed long-term care home on the north campus that will include a specialized building for students to work and learn with residents and staff.
The two additional phases will include assisted and independent living facilities for seniors and a primary health care centre.
Construction of the first phase is expected to begin in late 2012 and be completed by spring of 2014. The entire complex is expected to take 10 years to complete.
It is hoped the initiative will help improve the quality of life for seniors, as the number in Ontario is expected to double over the next 20 years.
Ron Schlegel, president and CEO of Schelgel Holdings, says "Our objective here is to find solutions now for the aging tsunami that is coming upon us rapidly."
Seniors at the facility will be part of university-run focus groups, research and education. Nine research teams will look at nutrition, geriatric medicine, spirituality and how they play a role in improving the quality of life for seniors.
