Chartwell Westhill Retirement Community
The Village of Riverside Glen
Description
The Westhill is an inviting atmosphere of new friends and great times, with personalized support services for better living. The Westhill is conveniently located in Waterloo, near The Boardwalk shopping area. Situated on a quiet cul de sac, it's just minutes from shops, restaurants and recreation. Register on our website for more information.
The Village of Riverside Glen is Guelph's unique continuum of care residence featuring Full Service Retirement Living suites with walk out patios, Assisted Care, Memory Care and Long Term Care plus our signature Village Town Square and Main Street. Our residence is designed to build community while serving your personal needs. At Riverside Glen, our friendly, well trained team, includes 24 hour professional nursing staff. Come and discover why "It Takes a Village to Care".
What do you do differently or uniquely well?
What do you do differently or uniquely well?
We create a lifestyle that feels both personalized and welcoming. Every resident arrives with different interests and routines, so we focus on understanding those preferences and helping each person shape their own experience. Through attentive service, engaging programs, and comfortable surroundings, we support residents in living actively and independently while enjoying the benefits of a supportive community.
The Village concept that sets us apart was always meant to create a living space for seniors that feels like a small town. In many ways this is similar to the experience our founder, Ron Schlegel, had growing up in Ailsa Craig outside of London, Ont. Our Main Street connects to the Town Square as the social spine of the Village. Together these spaces allow for indoor and accessible options for residents to live life as they always have. Ron also envisioned the Village as community hubs for seniors and others from the surrounding community. His vision was to connect the Village to the broader community to enhance the lives of residents as well as support those living outside the Village.
What supports do you offer residents as they adjust to life there?
What supports do you offer residents as they adjust to life there?
When someone joins our community, we take time to ensure the transition feels comfortable and reassuring. Our team introduces new residents to the dining room, common spaces, and daily routines that shape life here. Just as importantly, we help them connect with neighbours and staff so they quickly begin building friendships and feeling at home in the community.
Each resident who calls the Village home, comes with a unique life story. By completing our My Experience (ME) Form, you help us better understand your life, experiences, values and preferences. In order to support you to live well within our village, we need to begin by hearing your story. Your dedicated Village Experience Coordinator helps guide you through this paperwork and helps make the move-in experience as smooth as possible. Our resident Welcoming Committee strives to help their new neighbours feel welcomed and connected.
How are residents supported if their needs change?
How are residents supported if their needs change?
If a resident’s needs evolve, additional services such as nursing support, personal care, medication administration, and emergency response can be arranged. Our team works closely with residents and families to ensure the right level of assistance is in place while maintaining independence and dignity. The goal is to help residents continue enjoying the lifestyle they value while knowing support is available when it is needed.
At The Village of Riverside Glen, residents benefit from a full continuum of care within the same village community. As needs change, residents can access additional supports such as assisted living, memory care, and long-term care, all supported by professional care teams available around the clock. Residents can remain in a familiar environment while receiving the level of support that meets their needs.
Under what conditions would you advise someone against choosing your community?
Under what conditions would you advise someone against choosing your community?
Someone needing a residence designed primarily for advanced medical care may find another setting more appropriate. The Westhill Retirement Residence tends to appeal to seniors who enjoy an active community lifestyle with opportunities to connect, dine, and participate in wellness programs. We work best for individuals who value independence alongside supportive services and social engagement.
Seniors who strongly prefer a very private lifestyle with minimal interaction may find a different type of residence more aligned with their preferences. Riverside Glen is designed around Schlegel’s “village” concept, where daily life centers on connection, shared spaces, and community involvement. Our community appeals to those who value relationships, participation, and a vibrant village atmosphere.
What might residents find surprising about your community?
What might residents find surprising about your community?
Many residents are pleasantly surprised by how lively and welcoming the community feels. From shared meals to social gatherings and wellness activities, there is always something happening. At the same time, the atmosphere remains comfortable and friendly, allowing residents to participate as much or as little as they wish.
New residents often say “I wish I had done this sooner!” They’re surprised by how quickly they become absorbed in the community and how fast new friendships develop. In no time at all, everybody knows their name and like in any small town, a walk down Main Street is an opportunity to connect with friends and new acquaintances. People are also surprised by opportunities offered to grow and learn in their new community. They find new passions like hosting a podcast, riding a mechanical bull, becoming an artist or fulfilling a lifelong dream of skydiving. As they say, the possibilities are endless.
How will your community change in the next five years?
How will your community change in the next five years?
Over the next five years, we expect to continue strengthening the lifestyle and wellness experience that residents already value here. Our focus will remain on healthy aging, engaging programs, and attentive service that supports independence while providing reassurance that help is available when needed.
In the coming years, Riverside Glen will continue strengthening the village model that guides daily life here. The focus will remain on deepening the continuum of care while enhancing programs, services, and opportunities for residents to remain active and connected. We’ll build on the strong sense of community that already defines the village while ensuring residents can age in place with the support they need.
What five facts about your community should people know?
What five facts about your community should people know?
• The Westhill Retirement Residence is located in Waterloo, Ontario.
• Residents have access to nursing support, personal care services, meals, housekeeping, and social programming.
• The community emphasizes healthy aging and an active retirement lifestyle.
• Daily life includes shared dining, wellness activities, and opportunities to connect with neighbours.
• The residence is known for personalized service and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Ask us about our:
#ElderWisdom: Stories from the Green Bench Podcast
Program for Active Living
Signature Programs
Our bucket list program
Independent Living
Assisted Living
Dementia & Memory Care
Long-term Care
