Are you one of the 36% of the older Canadian community that chose to sell their home over the last decade? The real estate numbers show that, in recent years, more people have chosen to age in place rather than choosing to downsize or move into a retirement home. 

However, many still opt for the convenience, comfort, and peace of mind that senior apartments in Ontario offer. While this decision is a deeply personal one, it always helps to have all the available information to help you make the best choice. Are you asking yourself, “Can I live in a senior apartment?”

Let’s examine the primary considerations for finding the perfect senior apartment and answer the pressing issues along the way.

Financial Considerations

What is the overall cost of living in senior apartments?

There is no simple answer to this question. 

The cost of apartments for seniors in Ontario varies widely based on the type of residence and included services. Monthly rent can range from $1,800 for independent living communities to $5,000 or more for retirement residences offering more advanced care. Always ask what is included—such as utilities, meals, or healthcare services—to avoid unexpected costs.

Are there financial assistance programs available for seniors?

Ontario offers several programs to help older ones manage living expenses. Benefits like Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) provide income support for eligible individuals. Additionally, Ontario’s Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) housing may reduce costs significantly for lower-income households.

Types of Senior Housing

What types of living options are available, and how do they differ from each other?


Retirement Homes

  • Definition: Designed for older adults who are generally healthy but want to live in a community with peers.
  • Services: Typically offer amenities such as meals, housekeeping, and recreational activities but do not provide extensive medical care. Residents usually live independently in their own apartments or units.
  • Cost: Generally higher than independent living due to included services and amenities.

Supportive Housing

  • Definition: Often referred to as assisted living or independent supportive living, this type of housing is for older adults who need need some assistance with daily activities but still want to maintain a level of independence.
  • Services: Provides personal care services (e.g., help with bathing, medication management) along with meals and social activities. It blends independent living with supportive services.
  • Cost: Higher than independent living due to the additional care services provided.

Community Housing

  • Definition: This term can refer to various types of affordable housing options that may be available to seniors, often subsidized by government programs.
  • Services: These may vary widely; some community housing options provide minimal services, while others might include support services similar to supportive housing.
  • Cost: Typically more affordable, especially if government-subsidized.

Retirement Communities

  • Definition: These are often larger developments that cater specifically to retirees and may include various types of housing (e.g., single-family homes, condos).
  • Services: Focus on community living with social activities, amenities like pools and fitness centers, but generally do not provide dedicated medical care. Some may offer a continuum of care options.
  • Cost: Varies widely based on location and amenities offered; can be comparable to retirement homes or higher depending on the features included.

Living At Levante

When exploring housing options, it’s important to find a community that can meet your current needs while also adapting to any changes in the future. At Levante Living, this philosophy is embraced through our continuum of care, offering flexible support as residents’ needs evolve over time.

Levante Living provides a range of options tailored to different stages of senior living:

  • Independent Living: Perfect for active ones who want to remain independent while enjoying a vibrant community and amenities.
  • Independent Supportive Living:  Perfect for active adults who want to remain independent while enjoying a vibrant community and amenities.  Levante’s signature program “LevanteThrive” allows you to add a la carte care services as your needs change over time allowing you to “age in place”.
  • Assisted Living: For those requiring help with daily activities, Levante Living’s assisted living plan offers additional support, including mechanical lifts, to ensure your comfort and support.
  • Memory Care: Designed for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s, this specialised care promotes safety, dignity, and quality of life.

This comprehensive approach means residents don’t have to worry about moving to another community if their needs change. Instead, they can stay in a familiar environment while accessing additional care services as required, creating peace of mind for both residents and their families.

Location and Accessibility

How Important Is Location When Choosing a Senior Apartment?

Location plays a huge role in ensuring comfort and convenience for older ones. Being close to healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies can save valuable time and reduce stress when attending medical appointments. It’s also important to consider staying connected with loved ones—living near family and friends can make visits easier and more frequent.

Don’t forget about nearby amenities, too. Choosing a community close to grocery stores, parks, and public transport can make daily errands and outings more enjoyable while promoting an active and independent lifestyle.

What Accessibility Features Should Be Considered in Senior Apartments?

Accessibility is all about creating a space where residents can move freely and safely. Look for barrier-free designs with wide doorways, wheelchair ramps, and elevators. Small details like bathroom grab bars, non-slip flooring, and bright lighting can make a big difference in everyday comfort.

It’s not just about the apartment itself—take a look around the community. Are the walking paths well-maintained? Is there easy access to transportation? These features can make life easier and help residents feel more connected to their surroundings.

Contact Levante Living about your senior living needs in Canada.

At Levante, we are as passionate about our residents as we are about delivering a level of care that will exceed your expectations.

For more information, please fill out the form and a Levante representative will get back to you as soon as possible to answer all your questions and offer you expert guidance and support.