Zuidoever welcomes first residents on 1 June

Zuidoever comprises 54 rented apartments and is intended for people with relatively serious care needs. Voermans: ‘These apartments are specifically for elderly people with a care needs assessment of category 4 or higher.’ However, there are some exceptions, including the three apartments for partners on the third floor. ‘Larger than the other apartments, these are intended for couples where one partner has a care needs assessment. This makes it possible for them to continue to live together.’

Not all of the apartments have been let at this stage. Voermans: ‘We did this deliberately. Because we’re determined to offer bespoke care, we decided to start up slowly and gradually grow towards full occupancy. That also applies to our team. Doing it this way, we can ensure a good match between staff and residents.’ But that does not mean that the apartments will stay empty for long. ‘Certainly not, new residents who are interested are warmly welcome to come for an individual guided tour.’

So, what can people expect from Zuidoever? Voermans: ‘A team will be standing by for the residents 24/7. They’ve been trained to recognise any health risks and have plenty of experience caring for people with dementia and/or somatic symptoms.’ All meals will also be provided and can be eaten in the apartments or in the communal areas. ‘We’re determined to make people feel at home, which includes having the freedom to spend a lot of time with other residents or not, as the case may be. For example, there’s a library where the residents can sit quietly, but also rooms where you can play games or receive family members and friends.’ Of course, living at Zuidoever and receiving these services costs money: future residents will pay around € 3,000 every month.

In the lead-up to the opening, most of the work is focusing on the details of the landscaping and outfitting. Voermans is also hard at work training the team. ‘It’s important that we’re completely ready by 1 June without having to reinvent the wheel. That takes time and it’s important to give it the attention it deserves.’ Voermans is excited about the prospect of opening. ‘It’s what you’ve been working towards. Besides, being so closely involved in the construction of Zuidoever has been a special experience for me. It was a learning process that involved dealing with lots of decision-making. Because it feels like it’s ‘my baby’ to some extent, I’m glad I’ll be staying on, but now as location manager.’

For more information: www.deoevers.amsterdam