Everyone is different. What appeals to you may not appeal to someone else. As you are going through your planning, think about the types of living options you want. To get you started here’s a list of ideas and topics to get the thought process started.

• Where do you want to be geographically?
• What do you need to be near? For example family, medical facility, friends, or places of worship.
• Is the weather an issue for you?
• Is travelling time important to you?
• Are you able to drive?
• Do you like walking to places instead of using transit?
• Would you rather have two smaller places in separate locations instead of one large home?
• Do you want a standalone house?
• Do you need a backyard?
• Do you want a 2-storey home with a master bedroom on the main floor and guest rooms on the upper floor?
• Do you want to go into a condo building?
• Will the noise from your neighbours above or around you bother you?
• Will your home have easy exits for emergencies?
• Are you the active type?
• You may want to consider a 55+ community where the lifestyle suits you better. Being with friends, going biking or hiking or joining clubs. Generally enjoying life and having fun.
• Do you need some help with your day-to-day living? If yes, then continuing care community with independent living may be a better choice for you.
• Do you need extensive care? An assisted living facility may be a better fit for you in this case.
• What will your finances allow you to afford? How much expense you would like to handle?

To help you make sense of your options, a high-quality realtor who knows the area will be very helpful. Rely on the local resources of the area you want to live in.