Aging in Place vs. Moving to a Retirement Community
One of the biggest decisions families face is whether to stay in the home and bring support services in — or move to a retirement community that offers built-in care and community. There is no single right answer. This guide helps you weigh both options honestly.
Aging in place: Staying in your home
For many people, the idea of leaving the home they have lived in for decades is deeply emotional. Aging in place means staying in your current home with modifications and support services that allow you to live safely and independently.
Advantages
- Stay in a home and neighbourhood you know and love.
- Maintain independence and control over your daily routine.
- Keep familiar connections with neighbours, friends, and local services.
- Avoid the disruption and cost of a major move.
- Personalize your space exactly as you want it.
Challenges
- Home maintenance becomes harder and more expensive over time.
- Social isolation can increase, especially if driving becomes difficult.
- Safety concerns: stairs, bathrooms, and uneven surfaces become hazards.
- Emergency response may be slower without on-site support.
- Family members may carry a heavy caregiving burden.
Modifications that help you age in place
Many homes can be adapted for aging in place with relatively simple modifications: grab bars in the bathroom, a ramp or step-free entry, lever door handles, improved lighting, and non-slip flooring. A professional handyman or contractor can assess your home and make these changes. Andrew connects you with trusted local handymen and tradespeople who specialize in accessibility modifications — so you can stay in your home safely and comfortably.
Moving to a retirement community
Retirement communities range from independent living (your own apartment or condo in a community with shared amenities) to assisted living (staff help with daily activities) and memory care (specialized support for dementia and Alzheimer's). The right level depends on your current and anticipated needs.
Advantages
- Built-in social network and community activities.
- No maintenance, yard work, or home repairs to worry about.
- On-site support services: meals, housekeeping, transportation.
- Access to escalating levels of care as needs change.
- Greater safety: emergency response, accessible design, and staff on-site.
Challenges
- Monthly costs can be significant, especially for assisted living or memory care.
- Loss of independence and privacy compared to living at home.
- Adjusting to a new environment can be emotionally difficult.
- Limited ability to personalize your living space.
- Waitlists for some communities can be long.
Financial considerations
Cost is often the deciding factor. Here is a general comparison to help you think through the numbers:
Aging in place costs
- Property taxes, insurance, utilities, and ongoing maintenance (averaging 1–3% of home value per year).
- Home modifications: $500–$15,000+ depending on scope (grab bars, ramps, bathroom upgrades, stair lifts).
- In-home support services: $25–$50/hour for housekeeping, meal prep, personal care, and companionship.
- Emergency medical response systems: $30–$80/month.
Retirement community costs
- Independent living: $2,500–$5,500/month in Greater Victoria, depending on the community and suite size.
- Assisted living: $4,000–$7,500/month, depending on the level of care required.
- Memory care: $5,500–$10,000+/month, depending on the facility and level of specialized support.
- Many communities include meals, housekeeping, utilities, and activities in the monthly fee.
The right choice depends on your equity, retirement income, health needs, and personal preferences. A financial planner who specializes in retirement transitions can help you model the costs of each option. Andrew can connect you with trusted advisors who do this work every day.
Self-Assessment
Questions to ask yourself
There is no rush to decide. Use these questions to start a conversation with yourself and your family.
Can I safely manage stairs in my current home?
If the answer is no, a single-level home or retirement community with elevator access may be more practical.
Do I have a support network nearby?
Family, friends, neighbours, and community connections are essential. If yours is shrinking, a retirement community can rebuild that social fabric.
Can I afford ongoing home maintenance?
Roofs, furnaces, plumbing, and electrical systems all need attention. A retirement community bundles these costs into a predictable monthly fee.
How important is independence to me right now?
If maintaining independence is a top priority, aging in place with support services may be the best option. If safety and support are more pressing, a community may be the wiser choice.
What happens if my health changes suddenly?
Think about your Plan B. Can your home accommodate a wheelchair or walker? Does your retirement community offer escalating levels of care?
How does my family feel about this?
Family input is important — they are often the ones providing support or worrying about your safety. An honest conversation can help everyone get on the same page.
Retirement community options in the CRD
Greater Victoria has a growing range of retirement communities, from boutique residences to larger multi-level care facilities. Here is a snapshot of what is available in key areas:
Sidney
Several 55+ communities with walkable access to the waterfront, shops, and medical services. Popular with retirees who want village living.
Victoria
Independent living and assisted living options throughout the city, particularly in Fairfield, James Bay, and along the corridor.
Saanich
A range of options from independent living to memory care, often near Uptown and the Shelbourne corridor for easy access to services.
Langford
Newer developments with modern amenities and competitive pricing. Growing range of senior living options as the community expands.
Oak Bay
Established retirement residences in a walkable, village-like setting. Higher price points but excellent quality of life.
Duncan
More affordable options in the Cowichan Valley with a slower pace and strong community ties.
Every community has different availability, pricing, and levels of care. Andrew can help you compare current options, arrange tours, and find the community that fits your needs and budget.
You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone
Andrew connects you with trusted professionals
Whether you decide to age in place or move to a community, Andrew can connect you with the right people to make it happen — from professional organizers who help sort a lifetime of belongings, to handymen who install grab bars and ramps, to financial planners who map out the costs. He also works with estate lawyers for any legal considerations involving property or powers of attorney.
Handymen & Contractors
Accessibility modifications and home repairs
Professional Organizers
Sorting, decluttering, and downsizing support
Estate Lawyers & Advisors
Legal guidance and financial planning
Common questions
How do I know when it is time to move to a retirement community?
There is no single right time. The decision is usually driven by a combination of factors: declining mobility, increasing isolation, difficulty managing home maintenance, safety concerns, or a health event that makes staying at home unsustainable. If you find yourself asking the question, it is worth exploring your options — even if you are not ready to decide yet.
Can I afford to stay in my home?
It depends on your home's equity, your retirement income, and the level of support you need. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that the equity in their home can fund a comfortable transition to a retirement community — and may actually result in lower monthly costs than maintaining the home and paying for in-home services. A financial planner can help you model the numbers.
What if my spouse and I disagree about the best path forward?
This is very common. One partner may want to stay in the home while the other is ready for a change. The key is honest, patient communication — and often a neutral third party (a counsellor, financial planner, or trusted REALTOR®) can help both sides feel heard and find a path forward that respects everyone's needs.
Have questions about your situation?
Andrew will reach out personally — no obligation. Whether you are leaning toward staying home or exploring communities, he can help you think it through.
Not sure which path is right for you?
That is exactly why Andrew is here — to help you explore your options and make a confident, informed decision.