What is living in a retirement residence really like? Separate fact from fiction as we debunk the 10 most common retirement myths. Want more information? Download our Guide to Get Started today!

Myth: Retirement homes will take all my money

Fact: You will retain complete control of your finances. Retirement residences do not require access to any of your accounts and do not have the right to make financial or medical decisions for you. That is entirely between yourself and your power of attorney. Your money is your money.

Myth: I will not be able to leave the residence without permission

Fact: You can come and go from the residence as you please. Some residences may ask you to let them know if you will be away for an extended period (several days or weeks) for safety reasons, but you are free to come and go, just as you are free to come and go from your home.

Myth: If I get a cold or fall ill they will force me to move out

Fact: A retirement residence will always do everything they can to keep you safe at their residence. Many offer assisted living services if your health needs ever change. If you have concerns about needing more care than your retirement residence is capable of providing, kindly speak with their director of wellness. They will be able to walk you through all of the care options available.

Myth: My loved ones can only visit at set hours

Fact: Your loved ones can visit you whenever they want and for as long as they’d like. Many residences even have guest bedrooms that can be rented by family and friends. Family and friends are also usually welcome to join you for meals and activities, as long as room allows.

Myth: My pet can't come and live with me

Fact: There are many pet-friendly senior living and retirement home options available. If you’ve found a residence you like, speak with them about your specific pet. Most will allow cats and small dogs without a problem. If you’d like more information, you can download our guide for retirement living with your pets.

Myth: I will have to get rid of all of my possessions and furniture

Fact: Most retirement homes would prefer that you bring your own furniture with you. Your suite is yours, and it should feel like home.

Myth: I will lose my independence

Fact: Quite the contrary. Retirement homes make it so that you no longer need to spend your time doing housework, cooking, grocery shopping or home maintenance. That only gives you more time to do the things you enjoy! If you love cooking find a residence with full kitchens in the suites so you can cook when you want. You can also ask to run a demonstration for fellow residents in the craft kitchen. If you’ve always been an avid golfer, now you have more time to spend on the green. Or perhaps you're a knitter? Now you have a wider social circle to chat with while mastering their craft.

In addition, at a retirement residence you can easily receive support if you need it, which allows you to maintain your independence longer.

Myth: I will have to attend programs whether I enjoy them or not

Fact: A reputable retirement residence should have a full calendar of events for you to attend if you want to. You’ll never be forced to attend any programming; it is there for you to enjoy at your convenience. Whether you decide to join events, stay in your room with a book, play cards in the lounge with friends or leave the retirement residence entirely for the day, that's entirely up to you.

Myth: I will be forced to eat whatever they cook for my meals

Fact: Most retirement residences offer two choices for each meal, plus an à la carte menu for you to order from. If you want a break from the dining room, you’re welcome to treat yourself to a meal in a restaurant or some takeout ­— the choice is always yours.

Myth: I will no longer be able to drive

Fact: Most retirement homes have parking spaces designated for residents. You can absolutely continue to drive and enjoy all of the outside activities you enjoy now.

We hope this list helped to show what retirement living is really like. If you have a myth you want us to tackle, leave it in the comments below!

Have more questions? Call our Canada-based team toll-free at 1-866-959-4848. They would have happy to help you in any way they can!

Download our Guide to Get Started today!