Shepherd's Care Foundation Goes High Tech ~ In January 2010 construction commenced on a 115 unit multilevel, aging in place care building adjacent to the existing Vanguard College. Completion of construction is scheduled for August 2011. The care levels will include designated assisted living, enhanced designated assisted living for those with dementia, and independent supportive living apartments. The new building will incorporate multigenerational programming between students and residents. Integration of non-intrusive technology to support the seniors' quality of life and independence is a unique aspect of this location.
Innovative features of this residence include leading edge technology such as wireless electronic sensors as assistive devices within the units. The use of unobtrusive technology such as this to help seniors maintain independence and safety within their homes is a joint project in partnership with The University of Alberta Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine and Department of Computing Science.
This residence will be a teaching-learning-living site where student practicums from the University of Alberta, Vanguard College and other educational institutions are part of the day to day life of the building.
Research on the use of the technology, Master's student projects in Occupational Therapy and field education assignments with Vanguard College students will enrich the life of the seniors living in this building. They will also be able to take advantage of opportunities to use the college facilities next door such as the library, gymnasium and taking classes should they so choose.
Shepherd's Care Foundation thanks Honourable Mary Anne Jablonski, Minister Alberta Seniors and Community Supports for their confidence in this project by awarding $10.4 million in grants and is very appreciative of their other partners: The Pentecostal Assemblies of Alberta and Vanguard College, Alberta Health Services, the City of Edmonton, Servus Credit Union, Stuart Olson Construction and PGA Architects.
