Mohawk College students studying to become personal support workers or physical therapy assistants won’t have to travel far to their work placements.

Beneath the Tansley Woods retirement and long-term care home is a training ground for future PSWs, occupational and physiotherapy assistants.

More support is needed, according to a 2021 census, people aged 85+ are one of the fastest-growing groups in Canada, by 2046 their population will triple to almost 2.5 million.

The college and Schlegel Village already have an integrated classroom within another home at Wentworth Heights in Hamilton. Once it opens in September, 50 students will train there and put their skills to the test just steps away.

CEO of Schlegel Villages James Schlegel says many residents experience isolation once in a home and having eager students walking around goes a long way.

“They don’t really have a reason to get up in the morning. There’s no purpose to their lives. So this is one example of the way we give them an opportunity to contribute to the community in an important way. So it’s an opportunity for residents to stay engaged in life,” Schlegel said.

This is the fourth integrated classroom for Schlegel Villages.