Chartwell Westhill Retirement Community
The Village at University Gates
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.
Our Village is a proud part of a Canadian family tradition of community building that goes back 70 years. The first Schlegel family home became the foundation of what Schlegel Villages is today. Here at The Village at University Gates, we offer several lifestyle options to meet a variety of needs. Our continuum of care allows for residents to age with us in place as their needs change. The residents we serve come from a range of backgrounds that thread together the fabric of our community, and while we know resident-centredness is a term that many lean on these days, we truly do focus on each individual’s wishes to guide our approach to service.
Our Signature Programs help us focus on the individuality of each resident we serve. Our LIVING in My Today dementia care philosophy, for example, was developed by our team and our partners alongside people with lived experience. This provides our team the opportunity to learn exactly what it means to support a person who is experiencing the changing perceptions of dementia. We also celebrate the Wisdom of the Elder as another Signature Program, thanks to the inspiration of our founder Ron Schlegel. Ron once said: “The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders,” and we honour the individual and collective wisdom of those we serve in ways large and small.
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 at University Gates, we’re built around a true continuum of care, which means you don’t have to face change alone or make disruptive moves as your needs evolve. Our focus is always on supporting your independence first, while thoughtfully introducing additional care and services as you need them. Because our team knows you personally—your routines, your preferences, your story—we’re able to respond in a way that feels seamless, respectful, and reassuring. The goal is for you to continue living with confidence, comfort, and a strong sense of belonging, every day.
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.
University Gates may not be the right fit for someone looking for a very private or independent lifestyle without much connection to others. Life in the Village is designed to feel like a small town, where relationships, shared spaces, and daily interaction are part of the experience. Residents should also be comfortable living in a community where fellow neighbours have a variety of different care needs. We are a full continuum of care Village and we strive to make it a place where everyone belongs. We’re best suited for people who want to be part of a community—to know their neighbours, to be known by name, and to live in a place where connection and belonging are part of everyday life.
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.
As we look ahead, we’ll continue to build on the Village concept that defines life at University Gates. That means deepening our connections within the broader community, expanding opportunities for learning, creativity, and engagement, and continuing to listen to residents’ stories through tools like our ME Form. The Village will keep evolving as a place where people’s needs can be met in a variety of ways, where they can live fully and receive the support they need while staying connected, and continuing to discover new passions, just as they would in any vibrant small town.
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:
Ruby Restaurant: Schlegel Village’s hidden gem
#ElderWisdom: Stories from the Green Bench Podcast
Program for Active Living
Riverstone Spa
Signature Programs
Independent Living
Assisted Living
Dementia & Memory Care
Long-term Care
