Next month, people will start moving into the assisted-living facility at the Our Lady of Fatima Villa on Saratoga­Los Gatos Road.

The 34,409-square-foot facility is completely ready. "People will start moving in on Nov. 1," said Bella Mahoney, chief executive officer.

The new construction features 34 assisted-living units, including studio and one-bedroom units. "The facility is designed to maintain some level of independence," said Mahoney. Some studio apartments are also available with an optional room.

The facility features an emergency call bell system and assistance during bathing, meals and dressing. A nurse is always available on call. There is even a fenced area outdoors with redwood trees where seniors can take a walk or sit.

Other facilities that seniors can take advantage of are a library, a beauty salon, a spa room and a central dining room.

"We are a small, boutique assisted-living facility. We really try to care for the people who live here," said Mahoney.

A blessing to open the new facility was held on Oct. 19 where Bishop Patrick McGrath formally dedicated the building. The construction of the new building started in the fall of 2002. The chapel at the front has now given way to a three-story care facility.

Mary Schott, a longtime volunteer at the Villa, said she felt lucky to be associated with the institution. "Looking back at all the years I have volunteered, it has been wonderful," she said. Schott started volunteering at the Villa in the 1950s.

The land where the current property sits was purchased in 1948 for $75,000.

Fatima Villa will also continue to provide a skilled nursing care center at the same location. This is an older 85-bed facility that offers private and semiprivate rooms. The Villa has transfer agreements with local hospitals for patient services.

For more information, call 408.741.2950 or go to www.fatimavilla.org.