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Independent Living

What is Independent Living?

Independent living is an ideal option for people who want to maintain an independent lifestyle, with optional care services available should they be needed one day. In this section, we’ll discuss the benefits and costs of independent living, describe the similarities and differences versus living in your own home, and answer some common questions. Independent living is about living life the way you want.

Your suite provides you with comfort, privacy and every convenience. You’ll also enjoy the added benefits of being part of a safe and secure community with a range of independent living services, chef-inspired dining, and fun and fulfilling social and recreational activities to enjoy with new friends.

What services are offered in Independent Living?

Our independent living homes offer a range of services for your use, which may include:

  • Housekeeping and laundry

  • Chef-inspired meals

  • Salon and spa

  • Bus transportation and outings

  • Fitness classes (some retirement homes even have swimming pools!)

  • Social and recreation activities

  • Concierge services

  • Underground parking

Frequently Asked Questions

In senior independent living, it’s all about having the freedom to choose how each day unfolds, in an environment designed for, and focused on, you and your needs.

Independent living in Canada is offered in retirement homes that each look and feel a bit different, and that offer a range of amenities and services. The key is finding the right one for you. Our retirement homes have a variety of suites (such as one-bedroom or two-bedroom suites, some with an in-suite kitchen, as well as studios), so you can choose what suits you best. Ready to have someone else do the cooking? Food and nutrition are a big part of life, so relax and enjoy the chef-inspired meals in our dining rooms. Had enough of housekeeping? We’re here to help with that, too.

The wide range of recreational, cultural and social events and activities at each independent living home means there is something for everyone – and you have the freedom to decide what you’d like to do each day. Want to get or stay fit? Join an exercise class. Want to hone your artistic side? Share your creativity at art class. Want to visit the theatre? Join like-minded people from your residence and enjoy the show together. And don’t forget about your furry companions – our retirement residences welcome pets, and some of our newer homes even feature dog runs and dog wash stations!

Another great benefit to independent living is access to care should you need it. There are a variety of terms used to describe the care that is offered or accessible to residents in retirement communities: assisted living, independent supportive living, memory care and dementia care. Bottom line is that by choosing to live in a retirement residence, if you ever need care – whether it’s nursing care, physician services, nutritionist support or other healthcare services – we can help.

Each individual’s choices and options are different – so each of our retirement homes is different. Do you want a studio, or a one-bedroom or two-bedroom suite? Do you want to live in the heart of a major city, or do you prefer a smaller town atmosphere? What independent living services or care options do you need? The answers to all of these questions determine how much you’ll end up paying; for most seniors living in one of our retirement homes it works out to about $3,000 - $5,500 per month. We also have some retirement residences that cost more per month, for those looking for a luxury experience.

Retirement living is a welcome, affordable option for seniors who no longer want to worry about the upkeep or expenses associated with maintaining their home. In a retirement home, you not only have a suite of your own that you’ve chosen, you have delicious meals, social activities, a thriving environment and the ability to let someone else think about mundane tasks like cleaning, so that you can focus on what matters to you most. You also have the comfort of knowing that you have access to the care and support you need to manage your health, through onsite or visiting care professionals. In some cases, you can also choose to bring in government-funded or private services.

When you move to senior independent living, you retain the joy of making your own choices and pursuing your own interests, and gain freedom from the tasks and challenges that come with home ownership – all in a place dedicated to you and your needs.

Retirement homes offering independent living feature:

  • A safe and secure environment with safety features such as emergency call bell systems and staff on hand around the clock.

  • A team of talented people creating delicious, healthy, chef-inspired meals in a variety of dining settings.

  • Services like housekeeping and laundry, so you can free up your time to do more of what you want to do.

  • An active, social atmosphere of people at a similar stage of life as you are. Socialization is a primary reason many seniors move to independent living, and whether you feel like spending time on your own or connecting with your new friends, the choice is always up to you!

  • Events and activities (like fitness classes, art classes, cooking demonstrations and much more) to keep you as busy and engaged as you want to be. And they’re all close by.

  • Access to the care you need, when and if you need it.


You’ll have all of the benefits of retirement living with the peace of mind that comes with no longer worrying about the upkeep of your home – shovelling the snow, mowing your lawn or dealing with an unexpected breakdown of your washing machine or dishwasher. When you opt for independent living, you are choosing the lifestyle freedom you enjoy, backed by all the support you may want or need.

Find more answers

Care Comes in Many Forms

You may need different kinds of support over time. Our experienced team is ready with highly personalized care services.

Want to learn more about independent living?

Contact one of our Senior Living Advisors at 1-877-929-9222 or complete the form below. We look forward to connecting with you!

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