THE COMFORT LIFE REPORT:The Village at University Gates
Lifestyle options:
Independent Living, Assisted Living, Dementia & Memory Care, Long-term Care
Respite care available, Private home-care allowed, Palliative care available
Cost (from):
$5,022 (retirement), $2,036 (long-term care)
Suites:
229 suites (Studio, 1-bed, 1-bed + den, 2-bed, 2-bed + den)
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Our Perspective
How we see The Village at University Gates
This new 230 suite development opens an exciting opportunity for Waterloo-Wellington and area seniors seeking to get in on a still-very-new community. You’ll be onsite at University of Waterloo, benefiting from the expertise of Schlegel Villages and their work with the Research Institute for Aging.
Walk in, and you’ll find friends interacting happily, supported by Schlegel's innovative village design and layout (featuring a Town Square and more). With its proximity to UW and Laurel Creek Conservation, you’ll have nature, learning, and friends, all just outside the door. This began as exclusively long term care, but the spectrum of options now includes assisted living and memory care. It’s ideal for couples with different care needs to remain together in the same community, if one spouse is independent, but the other requires care. It’s also ideal for families and seniors who anticipate shifting care needs in the future.
We asked residents and their families about life at The Village at University Gates.
Access verified Reviews here
Community’s Perspective
How The Village at University Gates sees itself
Who are you as a community?
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.
- Ownership: Private. A member of Schlegel Villages
What do you do differently or uniquely well?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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
Insider Perspectives
Interview videos
What people with insider's knowledge of The Village at University Gates shared with Comfort Life.
Watch our interview with Jamie Hume to learn about the unique experience offered by The Village at University Gates.
Brad Bushby of Schlegel Villages speaks about how Schlegel combats ageism and empowers seniors within their villages.
Verified reviews of The Village at University Gates
What residents and their loved ones say about The Village at University Gates in reviews.
Lynn B, visitor or friend
"We had lunch at Ruby's, and I had Parmesan chicken on a bun with salad, and it was delicious. The view from the 10th floor was great!"Nelson Grant, family member
"I had agonized for almost 2 months about moving my wife, who has dementia, into University Gates as I felt she would reject the idea and would not be accepting of the move. I had several visits with Sophia and Sandy, and they were very understanding and supportive of the situation, understanding and listening to my concerns and questions, and always being very patient and caring about the situation and offering reassurance and support. I moved my wife into UG in early January, and I can truthf..."Dmitry Mishchenko, family member
"Nice and friendly retirement home. The people are nice. Staff workers are nice. I have family and a friend who live there. It is overall nice!"Lifestyle
Lifestyle options
Independent Living (definition)
Cost from $5,022
At Schlegel Villages we have two Neighbourhoods that support resident independence. As a Becker resident, you will enjoy living in a spacious apartment with a kitchenette featuring a full-size fridge and microwave, as well as an in-suite washer and dryer. Lunch and dinner are included in the cost, as well as weekly housekeeping and linen laundry. Additional services are available to purchase. In Williamsburg, our Full-Service Retirement Neighbourhood, you will benefit from supports to help you maintain your independence, including all the services listed below. All Williamsburg suites have a kitchenette and are on the Main Floor, with a beautiful walk-out patio. Residents in both of these Neighbourhoods benefit from all of the amenities and events that keep Main Street bustling throughout the day.
Includes
- Designated dining area
- Meals (Extra fee)
- Meals credits (Extra fee)
- Daily tidy (Extra fee)
- Housekeeping (1x/week)
- Medication administration (Extra fee)
Assistance with
- Bathing (Extra fee)
Independent Living at The Village at University Gates falls within the higher monthly costs for retirement communities in Ontario
Assisted Living (definition)
Cost from $6,861
As a resident living in Egerton, our Assisted Care Neighbourhood, a higher level of support with your activities of daily living is provided, due to greater physical needs. Our dedicated team members will support you as you continue to enjoy a life filled with meaning and purpose. Your studio or one-bedroom suite has a convenient kitchenette, and you will have access to our Main Street and all of the Village amenities to enjoy as you wish.
Includes
- Designated dining area
- Cancer care
- Diabetes
- Dialysis
- Huntington's Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Stroke care
- Meals (3x/day)
- Daily tidy
- Housekeeping (2x/week)
- Incontinence care
- Medication administration
- Resident Reminders
Assistance with
- Bathing (1x/week)
- Dressing
- Feeding (Extra fee)
- Transfers (Extra fee)
Assisted Living at The Village at University Gates falls within the higher monthly costs for retirement communities in Ontario
Dementia & Memory Care (definition)
Cost from $7,020
Emma's neighbourhood is designed for residents living with memory loss and offers care and recreation programs specifically designed for those with Alzheimer's Disease and other related forms of dementia. Residents will enjoy private time in either a studio or one-bedroom suite, while also having access to gathering spaces and programs in the Neighbourhood, as well as larger Village programs on Main Street. At Schlegel Villages, we believe there is no “loss of self”, but rather a “change in self” with the progression of dementia. Our Signature Program, LIVING in My Today, supports people living with dementia as they tap into their strengths, express themselves and enjoy the comfort and security of friendships in a place where they experience acceptance and belonging. Our emphasis on developing relationships while understanding the experience of those living with dementia forms the foundation of The Five Pillars of LIVING in My Today: (MEETS) Meaningful and Active Engagement, Enjoyable Mealtimes, Empowered Care Partners, Thoughtful Design and Supportive Approaches. Our dedicated team works with and cares for residents, supporting them to live well each day, regardless of what that day looks like. We’re proud of the foundation we’ve built in LIVING in My Today and the extensive work and collaboration that brought the program to life.
Includes
- Designated dining area
- Designated floor
- Meals (3x/day)
- Daily tidy
- Housekeeping (2x/week)
- Incontinence care
- Medication administration
- Resident Reminders
Assistance with
- Bathing (1x/week)
- Dressing
- Feeding (Extra fee)
- Transfers (Extra fee)
Memory Care at The Village at University Gates falls within the average monthly costs for retirement communities in Ontario
Long-term Care (definition)
Cost from $2,036
Includes
- Designated dining area
- Designated floor
- Meals (3x/day)
- Daily tidy
- Housekeeping (7x/week)
- Incontinence care
- Medication administration
- Resident Reminders
Assistance with
- Bathing (2x/week)
- Dressing
- Feeding
- Transfers
Long-term Care at The Village at University Gates falls within the higher monthly costs for retirement communities in Ontario
Suites
- Type: Studio
- Ownership: Rent
- Cost: $4,499 - $7,145
- Size: 331sq/ft
- Companion fee: +$1,000
- Details:
- Cable TV in room (additional fee)
- Call Bell System
- Kitchenette
- Mini-fridge
- Patio/Balcony
- Personal phone number in room (additional Fee)
- Contact:
- Type: 1-bed
- Ownership: Rent
- Cost: $4,655 - $8,684
- Size: 479sq/ft
- Companion fee: +$500
- Details:
- Cable TV in room (additional fee)
- Call Bell System
- Dishwasher
- Full size fridge
- Insuite washer/dryer
- Kitchen
- Kitchenette
- Patio/Balcony
- Personal phone number in room (additional Fee)
- Contact:
- Type: 1-bed + den
- Ownership: Rent
- Cost: $5,292 - $6,470
- Size: 855sq/ft
- Companion fee: +$500
- Details:
- Cable TV in room (additional fee)
- Call Bell System
- Dishwasher
- Full size fridge
- Insuite washer/dryer
- Kitchen
- Kitchenette
- Personal phone number in room (additional Fee)
- Contact:
- Type: 2-bed
- Ownership: Rent
- Cost: $6,365 - $6,766
- Size: 911sq/ft
- Companion fee: +$500
- Details:
- Cable TV in room (additional fee)
- Call Bell System
- Full size fridge
- Insuite washer/dryer
- Kitchen
- Kitchenette
- Personal phone number in room (additional Fee)
- Contact:
- Type: 2-bed + den
- Ownership: Rent
- Cost: $6,176 - $6,504
- Size: 1132sq/ft
- Companion fee: +$500
- Details:
- Cable TV in room (additional fee)
- Call Bell System
- Dishwasher
- Full size fridge
- Insuite washer/dryer
- Kitchen
- Kitchenette
- Personal phone number in room (additional Fee)
- Contact:
Amenities & Services
Residence Amenities & Services
Arts and crafts
Billiards
Chapel
Community Garden
Computers
Emergency call system (pendent)
Emergency call system (pull-cord in room)
Fitness Studio
Games Room
Gift Shop
Hairdresser
Hobby kitchen
Internet
Laundry machines
Library
Mail box
Mail delivery to suite
Movie theatre
Newspapers delivered to concierge
On-site General Store
Onsite foot care
Parking (indoor)
Parking (outdoor)
Patio/Courtyard/BBQ
Pet friendly
Pond/Lake
Private bus for outings, regular trips
Private dining room for family/friends
Putting Green
Recreation facilities onsite
Religious Services & Holiday Celebrations
Spa Services
Spa tub or shower room
Spa/Beauty Salon
Storage lockers
Walking Path
Wheelchair (electric)
Wheelchair (scooter)
Wheelchair Accessible
Programs & Activities
Arts and Crafts
Assisted Walks/Trails
Bible Classes
Billiards/Pool Tables
Bingo
Bocce Ball
Brain Fitness
Card Games
Continued education
Day Trips
Entertainment
Excursions
Exercise Program
Gardening
Golf
Movie Nights
Parties
Religious & Holiday Services
Resident social / activity club
Sewing
Table Tennis
Volunteering
Weekly Shopping Trips & Excursions
Staff & Care
Staff
| Medical and other support staff | |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | 24 hrs/day |
| Registered Practical Nurses | 24 hrs/day |
| Personal Support Workers | 24 hrs/day |
| Doctor | on call |
| Foot care specialist | on call |
| Dentist | on call |
| Physiotherapist | on call |
| Chiropodist | on call |
Number of care staff:
- Daytime:
- Weekends:
- Nights:
Care services
Care options available:
- Respite care available
- Private home-care allowed
- Palliative care available
Health Services:
- Catheter care(with special assistance)
- Cognitively impaired residents(with special assistance)
- Medication charted by electronic pen(with special assistance)
- Medication charted by exception(with special assistance)
- Ostomy care(with government assisted)
- Oxygen assistance(with special assistance)
- Physically challenged residents(with special assistance)
- Vitals monitoring(with special assistance)
News
Recent News
More Than Just Keeping Busy: Engagement Transforms Lives
How a simple act of listening sparked joy and transformed lives at The Village at University Gates. ... read more.
Accreditation & Associations
Neighbourhood
Neighbourhood
Village at University Gates is located at 250 Laurelwood Drive, Waterloo, Ontario, N2J 0E2.
Compare The Village at University Gates with nearby communities
| Compare with | Lifestyle options | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Chartwell Westhill Retirement Community | Independent Living, Assisted Living, Dementia & Memory Care, Long-term Care | Waterloo, Ontario |
| The Village of Winston Park | Independent Living, Assisted Living, Dementia & Memory Care, Long-term Care | Kitchener, Ontario |
| The Village of Riverside Glen | Independent Living, Assisted Living, Dementia & Memory Care, Long-term Care | Guelph, Ontario |
| The Village of Arbour Trails | Independent Living, Assisted Living, Dementia & Memory Care, Long-term Care | Guelph, Ontario |
| Brierwood Court Apartments | Independent Living, Assisted Living, Dementia & Memory Care, Long-term Care | Brantford, Ontario |
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