Lists of reports on this page:
Find care details, insights, and insider perspectives gained from 20+ years of helping seniors and families.
What to know about this topic:
- About senior independent living homes
- A brief look at the benefits of independent senior living
- Concerns for seniors moving into independent living homes
Independent living homes present a paradox for seniors — your life will become both increasingly active and more relaxing at the same time. You'll suddenly find yourself with plenty of activities and programs in which to take part, but your facility’s staff will take care of many of your needs. Some of these services, programs, and amenities may include:
- Games, like bingo, shuffleboard, trivia, and other brain fitness
- Grooming facilities — barbershops, hair salons, manicure and pedicure centers
- Scheduled transportation
- Light housekeeping and maintenance services (i.e. changing light bulbs)
- A concierge to help you discover the incredibly diverse and lively Ontario outdoors
- A dining hall (many independent living homes include meals in their monthly fees)
- Other common rooms, such as computer rooms, lounges, and card rooms
IN-DEPTH REPORTSIndependent living retirement communities in Ontario
FEATURED
The Briton House
720 Mt. Pleasant Road, Toronto,
Ontario, M4S 2N7
Family-owned and operated, the Briton House is dedicated to the highest standard service for 50 years. Offering a full continuum of care, rich amenities and suites, home-cooked meals, and a 15,000 sq. ft. indoor garden.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
The Dunfield Retirement Residence
77 Dunfield Avenue, Toronto,
Ontario, M4S 2H3
The Dunfield Retirement Residence has established a new standard in senior retirement living in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) with 177 spacious apartments. Where people come to LIVE!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Amica Unionville
34 Main Street, Unionville,
Ontario, L3R 4Z8
Located on the charming Main Street of historic Unionville, Amica Unionville blends heritage-village ambiance with upscale senior living, providing a backdrop for connection, activity, peace of mind, and relaxation.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Belmont House
55 Belmont Street, Toronto,
Ontario, M5R 1R1
A superb retirement home nestled in Toronto proper, featuring a variety of apartments and suites, along with a fitness room for active seniors, an on-site convenience store and more.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
FEATURED
Amica Dundas
50 Hatt Street, Dundas,
Ontario, L9H 0A1
This luxurious retirement home in Dundas, a short drive from Hamilton and the Niagara region, offers active living for seniors, with a variety of amenities including fine dining.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Amica London
517 Fanshawe Park Road West, London,
Ontario, N6G 0C1
This uniquely luxurious London, Ontario retirement home offers elegant dining, indoor fitness facilities, scenic walking trails and many other features for active seniors
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
FEATURED
Governors Walk Retirement Residence - Metta Lifestyles
150 Stanley Avenue, Ottawa,
Ontario, K1M 2J7
A former monastery and friary, Governors Walk is designed to pay respect to the past while featuring a modern touch. Governors Walk is steps away from the picturesque Rideau River and Stanley park.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
McCowan Retirement Residence - Metta Lifestyles
2881 Eglinton Avenue East, Scarborough,
Ontario, M1J 0A2
McCowan Retirement Residence is a vibrant and family oriented retirement home located in Scarborough. With team members who have been here since we opened in 2004, you can expect a warm welcome and a feeling of home.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Forestview Retirement Residence
537 Finch Avenue West, Toronto,
Ontario, M2R 0A8
Forestview Retirement Residence offers elegant, comfortable senior living in Downsview, Willowdale, and North York, with personalized care, flexible services, vibrant amenities, and a warm, connected community.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
FEATURED
Queenston Place Residence
6440 Valley Way, Niagara Falls,
Ontario, L2E 7E3
This Niagara Falls retirement home features local activities and scenery in a luxury environment offering a comfortable lifestyle, care and peace of mind.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
FEATURED
Arabella Retirement Living
24 Dundas St West, Belleville,
Ontario, K8P 0H1
Arabella Retirement Living is a breath of fresh air for seniors looking for a vibrant and independent way of life. Our friendly staff will ensure your days are filled with amazing meals, fun activities, and so much more.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
FEATURED
Stonemont On The Park
1068 Cummings Ave, Ottawa,
Ontario, K1J 0E2
Nestled steps from the park, Stonemont On The Park offers elegant studio-to-two-bed suites, chef-prepared dining, premium hospitality, and personalized independent to assisted living in a vibrant Ottawa community.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Delmanor Northtown
5351 Yonge Street, North York,
Ontario, M2N 7L5
Delmanor Northtown is a full-service boutique retirement community located in the heart of North York, catering to active and independent seniors.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Southbrook Retirement Residence
400 Ray Lawson Blvd., Brampton,
Ontario, L6Y 4G4
Southbrook is all about choices - We celebrate independence in senior living but, are always here to provide assistance when you need it. Southbrook - come be a part of our community, our family and meet new friends!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Canterbury Place Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
1 Canterbury Place, North York,
Ontario, M2N 0G7
Canterbury Place offers Independent & Independent Supportive Living and suite styles in an elegant condo-like building for active adults. Unique healthcare programs available for our residents including palliative care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Don Mills Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
2 Green Belt Drive, North York,
Ontario, M3C 1L8
A luxury senior living community in the heart of North York. Be inspired by beautifully appointed amenities in our state-of-the-art building offering exceptional care, intelligent technology & exciting life enrichment.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Carp Commons Retirement Village - Verve Senior Living
458 Donald B. Munro Drive, Carp,
Ontario, K0A 1L0
One visit to Carp Commons Retirement Village and you’ll see the difference in terms of amenities, food, services, programs, and the little touches that make it feel like home.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
The Roxborough Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
1 Roxborough Road, Newmarket,
Ontario, L3Y 2P8
The Roxborough Retirement Residence is both elegant and cozy with a dedicated and caring team that go above and beyond for your well-being and happiness. We offer Independent living and Independent Supportive Living.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Delmanor Prince Edward
4180 Dundas Street West, Etobicoke,
Ontario, M8X 1X8
Situated in a treed ravine setting overlooking the Humber River, Delmanor Prince Edward provides vistas that vary from the serenity of the adjacent valley to the resplendence of the Toronto downtown skyline!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
The Village of Erin Meadows
2930 Erin Centre Boulevard, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5M 7M4
We feature a unique full continuum of care with a vibrant Main Street offering Independent Living, Retirement Apartments, Assisted & Memory Care suites . Our retirement community represents a diverse ethnic population.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Amica Stoney Creek
135 King St. E, Stoney Creek,
Ontario, L8G 0B2
Amica Stoney Creek celebrates its rich heritage on the site of Stoney Creek Dairy, a local treasure from 1929 to 2012. Stroll to shops, pubs, or Olde Town Stoney Creek, or take a trip to nearby Hamilton or Niagara.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
White Cliffe Terrace - Verve Senior Living
1460 Highway #2, Courtice,
Ontario, L1E 3C4
Discover Independent, Assisted, and Independent Supportive Living at our award-winning Oshawa residence. Enjoy tailored care, spacious suites, nearby parks, shopping and peace of mind. Readers Choice Winner, 2016–2019.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Parkland Ajax
3 Rossland Road West, Ajax,
Ontario, L1Z 0V1
Parkland Ajax offers independent and supportive options! Beautifully designed spacious suites, exceptional on site amenities and professional staff on site 24/7, Parkland is where you can live your best life!
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Heritage Place Retirement Residence
4151 Kilmer Drive, Burlington,
Ontario, L7M 5A9
Heritage Place is an independently owned retirement residence in Burlington, specializing in quality accommodation & services for the active senior, with 2 styles of living: apartment style suites & 2 bedroom bungalows
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living
The Village of Wentworth Heights
1620 Upper Wentworth St., Hamilton,
Ontario, L9B 2W3
The Village of Wentworth Heights is a full-service retirement living community offering retirement apartments, full-service suites, assisted living and memory care.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Evergreen Retirement Community - Verve Senior Living
820 Scollard Court, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5V 0A1
A stylish Mississauga retirement home offering Independent, Independent Supportive, and Assisted Living, tailored to seniors' lifestyles, featuring a hair salon, onsite bistro, and more.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Scarborough Retirement Residence
148 Markham Road, Scarborough,
Ontario, M1M 2Z8
A family owned and managed residence that offers seniors the opportunity to maintain their independence. Enjoy healthy Chef-prepared meals, daily life enrichment programs. We also offer short-term trial or respite stays.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Hazelton Place Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
111 Avenue Road, Toronto,
Ontario, M5R 3J8
Luxury and quality fill every corner of Hazelton, from its elegant lobby to its inviting Bistro & Bar. With exceptional amenities and tailored services, Hazelton empowers you to define and enjoy your ideal lifestyle.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Stouffville Creek Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
40 Freel Lane, Stouffville,
Ontario, L4A 0P5
Stouffville Creek offers cozy living with exceptional dining, tailored care, and nearby highways, shops, and trails. Choose Independent, Independent Supportive, or Assisted Living for a fulfilling retirement.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Chartwell Dorchester Terrace Retirement Community
143 Byron Ave, Dorchester,
Ontario, N0L 1G5
Dorchester Terrace offers area seniors a variety of suite choices, wellness support services, medication administration, housekeeping services, physiotherapy and daily dining in an open restaurant-style dining room.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Chartwell Palermo Village
3136 Dundas Street West, Oakville,
Ontario, L6M 0S5
Palermo Village is a luxurious condo-style residence offering Independent and Independent Supportive Living. Enjoy a vibrant community, expert care, and support tailored to your well-being.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Parkland on the Glen
1665 The Collegeway, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5L 0A9
Parkland is located at Mississauga and The Collegeway next to the Glenerin Inn. We are surrounded by beautiful green space. For the past 6 years we've been awarded one of the top 3 Retirement Communities in Mississauga.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Delmanor West Village
15 Summerland Terrace, Etobicoke,
Ontario, M9A 0B5
Delmanor West Village is a retirement residence in Etobicoke, Toronto, offering independent living, assisted living, respite stays, renovated suites with full kitchens, an Aquafit pool, and chef-prepared dining.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Port Credit Residences - Verve Senior Living
33 Hurontario Street, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5G 3G8
Port Credit Residence offers a resort-inspired lifestyle with an oversized pool, wellness centre, physiotherapy, movie theatre, library, spa/salon, and more. Offering Independent & Independent Supportive Living.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
The Riverine
328 Dundas Street West, Napanee,
Ontario, K7R4B5
Experience carefree living at The Riverine with all-inclusive rates & no hidden fees. Beautiful waterfront property; two levels of retirement living; elegant dining, housekeeping; 100% family owned & operated & more.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Golden Pond Retirement Residence
387 Goodrich Rd, Codrington,
Ontario, K0K 1R0
A truly unique environment for seniors who cherish a family-like atmosphere, complete with full support services, assisted living, and more—all in a natural setting enriched by light, sun, water, plants, and pets.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Sorrento Retirement Residence
10 Station Road, Bolton,
Ontario, L7E4L3
Welcome to Sorrento, a luxury take on retirement living in downtown Bolton. Inspired by the picturesque town of Sorrento, Italy, we bring the Italian zest for life to this unique community.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Four Elms Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
1500 Steeles Avenue West, Thornhill,
Ontario, L4J 4H6
Four Elms is an elegant Retirement Residence offering the finest in Senior Living. Choose a suite style that is perfect for you and enjoy an active lifestyle, fine dining and the company of good friends.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Chateau Glengarry Retirement
105 St. Paul Street, Alexandria,
Ontario, K0C 1A0
Located between Ottawa & Montreal, our bilingual staff cater to seniors who are independent, need assistance or have early memory loss. Enjoy home-cooked food, fitness & daily activities. Respite stays are welcome.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Chartwell Erinview
2630 Fifth Line west, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5K 0A8
Located in the heart of Mississauga, Erinview offers an atmosphere of worry-free, comfortable living with personalized support in the presence of good friends.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Chartwell Longworth Retirement Residence
600 Longworth Road, London,
Ontario, N6K 4X9
Voted London's Best Retirement Residence seven years running! We promote our passion for seniors living well by offering choices for an active, wellness focused lifestyle with the security of knowing help is at hand.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
VIVA Thornhill Woods
9700 Bathurst Street, Vaughan,
Ontario, L6A 4V2
Vaughan's premier all-inclusive rental retirement community! Enjoy bright, spacious suites, modern amenities, delicious dining, and a Team devoted to Making Today Great! for you and your family! Book your tour today!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Delmanor Aurora
25 Butternut Ridge Trail, Aurora,
Ontario, L4G 3Z3
Delmanor Aurora provides a new twist on retirement living, in a five-star resort-style setting. Extensive amenities including saltwater pool, fitness centre, theatre, spa, market, ground floor patio and rooftop terrace.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Crown Ridge Retirement Residence
106 Crown Street, Trenton,
Ontario, K8V 6R3
Located on the east side of Trenton in a quiet neighbourhood. Enjoy beautiful suites of various sizes & layouts with advanced safety features. Elegant dining plus snacks & beverages included.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
The Village of Taunton Mills
3790 Brock Street North, Whitby,
Ontario, L1R 0H2
The Village of Taunton Mills in Whitby presents several levels of service from seniors' apartments with full kitchens, retirement apartments with meals and services to memory care, assisted living and long-term care.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Amica Taunton
85 Taunton Road East, Whitby,
Ontario, L1R 0S4
AMICA Taunton offers a full continuum of care from townhome condos to Memory Care. We have 24/7 nurses and a visiting doctor. Residents choose to dine between 7am-7pm and enjoy special menus created by our Red Seal Chef.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Delmanor Glen Abbey
1459 Nottinghill Gate, Oakville,
Ontario, L6M 4W1
Delmanor Glen Abbey celebrates 20 years! Country club style, surrounded by nature, birds and bees. Minutes from downtown Oakville, hospitals and senior’s centres. Truly an inspired retirement living experience.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
New Horizons Tower
1140 Bloor Street West, Toronto,
Ontario, M6H 4E6
A well-established not-for-profit, NHT is committed to enriching the lives of seniors. Gracious dining & café, the Terrace Garden, daily fitness, vibrant Concert Series - there is plenty for residents to enjoy at NHT!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
The Village of Glendale Crossing
3030 Singleton Avenue, London,
Ontario, N6L 0B6
A true retirement hub featuring independent Living Apartments with full kitchens, Retirement Apartments, Full Service Retirement suites with walk out patios, Assisted Care, Memory Care and LTC.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Holland Gardens - Verve Senior Living
552 Holland St W, Bradford,
Ontario, L3Z 4H3
Located in the heart of Bradford, Holland Gardens offers a luxurious resort lifestyle where you can age gracefully with Independent Living, Independent Supportive Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Chartwell Westhill Retirement Community
25 Westhill Drive, Waterloo,
Ontario, N2T 0B6
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.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Chartwell Richmond Woods Retirement Community
200 North Centre Road, London,
Ontario, N5X 0B1
A desirable retirement residence in London, Ontario, including 130 suites with extensive amenities designed to provide the ultimate in retirement living. Proud winners of the "Best of London in Retirement Living 2020!"
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Grandview Retirement Living
83 Centennial Parkway South, Stoney Creek,
Ontario, L8G 0B7
In the heart of downtown Stoney Creek, Grandview Retirement Living offers a variety of suites, delicious dining and unsurpassed amenities. Inclusive, customized independent and assisted living service packages available.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Delmanor Elgin Mills
80 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill,
Ontario, L4C 0L3
Award Winning Delmanor Elgin Mills, has proudly served the Richmond Hill community since 2002, offering Independent, Assisted Living, and Memory Care options, you can choose from a variety of well-appointed sized suites.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Amica Riverside
4909 Riverside Drive East, Windsor,
Ontario, N8Y 0A4
Premium 11-storey retirement residence with a beautiful waterfront setting, located on Riverside Drive East, just south of Wyandotte Street. Overlooking the Detroit River, with views of Belle Isle and Reaume Park.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Amica Pickering
1450 Pickering Parkway, Pickering,
Ontario, L1V 0G2
Amica Pickering offers contemporary senior living in a vibrant lakeside community. Thoughtfully designed and welcoming, it supports your pace of life while offering the assurance of care when you need it.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
The Village of Humber Heights
2245 Lawrence Avenue West, Etobicoke,
Ontario, M9P 3W3
The Village of Humber Heights is a retirement community that offers various lifestyle options and levels of services ranging from independent living with meals, to assisted living, memory care, and long-term care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
The Village of Arbour Trails
32 Bayberry Drive, Guelph,
Ontario, N1G 0C9
Guelph retirement home offers Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care. Includes 24 hour onsite nursing team and medication support within a Village-like setting. It takes a Village to care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Chartwell Riverstone Retirement Community
1951 Shore Rd., London,
Ontario, N6K 0K5
Riverstone supports an independent retirement lifestyle in a brand-new community built for you. Choose from retiree apartments, one-floor villa townhomes and retirement suites coming Fall 2023!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Delmanor Wynford
187 Wynford Drive, North York,
Ontario, M3C 0C7
A full service 5-star retirement community centrally located in Toronto - features extensive common areas, a rooftop putting green and a variety of other amenities catering to today's active seniors.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Amica Little Lake
70 Lakeside Terrace, Barrie,
Ontario, L4M 0J2
Set on the shores of Little Lake in Barrie, Amica Little Lake offers beautiful views, a vibrant community, and a comfortable place to call home, with independent, assisted and memory care, dining, programs, and support.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Ashley Oaks Retirement Residence
200 Rivermont Road, Brampton,
Ontario, L6Y6L4
Ashley Oaks offers a vibrant and active lifestyle. Our new community has a touch of European charm with spacious suites, delicious cuisine, and a variety of amenities. It's not just a place to live but a place to thrive!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
The Village of Winston Park
695 Block Line Road, Kitchener,
Ontario, N2E 3K1
This elegant retirement residence in Kitchener-Waterloo offers a continuum of care from independent living apartments to assisted living, memory care and long-term care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Richmond Hill Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
70 Bernard Avenue, Richmond Hill,
Ontario, L4C 0W7
Richmond Hill Retirement Residence is full service including meals, housekeeping, independent and independent supportive living. Our focus is on maintaining good health, great food, new friends & lots of laughter!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Living Water Retirement Residence
19 Keith Avenue, Collingwood,
Ontario, L9Y 5B5
A Resort Style Community Served by a Team With Loving Hearts. We commit to providing an exceptional, caring experience for all residents with a culture that is people-centred, actionable love, compassion, and humility.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Shepherd Terrace
3758 Sheppard Avenue East, Scarborough,
Ontario, M1T 3K9
Shepherd Terrace offers a variety of independent and assisted living suites within the renowned Shepherd Village. With its long history of providing caring service you’ll love the amenities and the excellent services.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
The Village at University Gates
250 Laurelwood Drive, Waterloo,
Ontario, N2J 0E2
Now welcoming our Retirement Home Residents to the Village. We offer Waterloo a range of services for today's Senior including Retirement Apartments, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Long Term Care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Parkland Ancaster
558 Golf Links Rd., Hamilton,
Ontario, L9G 4W9
At Parkland Ancaster, we will offer a luxurious, vibrant, social lifestyle in a beautiful safe, premium home. Enjoy upscale amenities, creating a supportive space for you to thrive socially and lead fulfilling lives.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Parkland on Eglinton West
4650 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke,
Ontario, M9A 0E3
Parkland on Eglinton West offers Lifestyle Apartments, All-Inclusive Lifestyle and Supportive Lifestyle options for seniors. Parkland makes it easy for you to do more of what you love!
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
The Shores of Port Credit - Verve Senior Living
280 Lakeshore Rd. W., Mississauga,
Ontario, L5H 0A5
The Shores is designed for vibrant living with the highest quality of personal care. Amenities include pool, fitness & exercise club, restaurant, bistro & cafe, a golf simulator lounge & wine cellar.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
The Village of Tansley Woods
4100 Upper Middle Road, Burlington,
Ontario, L7W 4W8
At The Village of Tansley Woods, we offer the full continuum of care - Independent Living Suites, Retirement Apartments, Full Service Retirement Suites, Assisted Care, Memory Care and Long Term Care all in one village.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
About senior independent living homes
One of the most common questions about independent senior living homes is what one’s physical style of living will look like. In most cases in Ontario, these homes are in the style of an apartment for seniors. However, this province’s independent living homes are also available in portable homes, bungalows, townhouses, and subdivision developments.
The cost of your home will depend on its location and quality. In Ontario, the former is the most important factor. For instance, living in a big city, like Toronto or Ottawa, will, on average, cost more than an independent living home in a rural town where land is less expensive. The latter simply depends on the overall quality of the home (i.e. how old it is, its cleanliness, its interior decorating) and the number of services and amenities that it offers.
Tools to help you choose
A brief look at the benefits of independent senior living
Three benefits make independent living homes unique from your own home. These include:
- Alleviating safety concerns — Almost all independent living retirement homes in Ontario offer round the clock security and emergency procedures. On-site professionally-trained staff will always be available to assist you.
- Visiting Hours — Unlike your own home, an independent seniors' living home may restrict the hours at which you could invite guests.
- A Busy Life — Your senior years should be relaxing! But, at Ontario’s independent living homes, they need not be dull or lonely, as you will have many opportunities to get involved in community activities, like movie nights, and to be social with other residents. Moreover, since your lifestyle will be a lot less stressful than it would be in your home, you will have lots of time to explore Ontario’s wonderful natural sites, bustling cities, and cultural riches.
Concerns for seniors moving into independent living homes
I never want to move into a "home," even if you call it "independent senior living"
This is a typical line we hear from seniors. Open up your mind to the possibilities and take a look at one of these places! Realize that your needs are going to change as you get older, and there are advantages to being in a home "before you really need one." If you’re living on your own and think you have all you really need, think about living in a typical independent senior living community. Do you have a pool right in your own home? An independent living retirement home might very well. Is there a reading group you’re part of? There’s probably one in a retirement home. Do you have different friends to walk with every day? You might, in one of the independent senior living home your family wants you to think about.
Look at it as an opportunity to grow in new directions. Expanding your horizons and learning new things is good for you at any age. As with any change in life, you can choose what attitude you take towards this move.
Retirement homes are in fact bustling, busy places where there is much socializing to do, along with group activities, days out, trips to local activities, and indoor activities including fitness areas and many more amenities. And within any independent senior living home, you have the option to just sit and relax with friends or spend time just doing your own thing. Living on your own is over-rated (and not nearly as independent as you think it is) when you consider the value of spending time in community with other seniors who have the same abilities, interests and outlook on life.
This type of home really can create independence for seniors. When your daily meals are taken care of, when your complete living space is easily accessible and does not require the exertion of stairs or ramps or hills, when you’re free from paying all the bills because all your bills are fit into one, you may find a new kind of freedom. You may find yourself freed in a new environment, where you have time to discover and do things that were never possible before. In the past, we have profiled seniors who took up golfing like they never have before or who discovered newfound passions like gardening, and developed those passions in new and original ways.
These senior independent living homes look wonderful, but how can I afford it?
Many people move into a retirement home, surprised at what they can actually afford. Don’t forget that all of your costs are covered under one umbrella by the monthly fee you pay in a retirement community: everything from communal meals to heating and air conditioning and all your other utilities, to the roof over your head. Once you have that single monthly cost, you just need to cover it. Like most Canadians, you probably collect Old Age Security (and possibly some supplements), Canada Pension Plan benefits, and you may also have a work pension. If you have savings or left-over equity in your own home, investments or any other income, this can be applied to your monthly costs. There are also many sources of income and funding available to Ontario seniors looking at independent living.
Do the math before you give up on the idea. List the resources you have, what you have to pay, and figure out how to live within your means; it can be done!
