How to Choose the Right Retirement Community for Your Loved One

Choosing a retirement community for a parent, grandparent, or loved one is a major decision. It's about more than just finding a place to live—it's about ensuring their happiness, safety, comfort, and well-being in a community that feels like home. With so many options available, how do you know which one is the right fit?

Here’s a helpful guide to walk you through what to consider when choosing the right retirement community for your loved one.

1. Understand Their Needs

Every senior is different. Some are fully independent and want a vibrant social life, while others may need more support with daily tasks.

Start by identifying what your loved one needs:

• Independent Living: Ideal for seniors who are self-sufficient but want amenities like meals, housekeeping, and social activities.

  
  

• Assisted Living: Suitable for those who need help with medication, bathing, dressing, or mobility.

  
  

• Respite or Convalescent Care: Short-term stays for recovery after surgery or to give a family caregiver a break.

  
  

👉 Tip: At Windsor Place Retirement Residence, all three options are available with personalized support plans tailored to each resident’s needs.

2. Consider the Location

Location plays a big role in your decision. Is the residence close to family and friends? Are there nearby services like hospitals, shopping, or parks?

Windsor Place, for example, is located in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, steps away from the boardwalk, Soo Market, public library, and Seniors Drop-in Centre—making it easy for residents to stay connected to the community.

3. Tour the Suites and Amenities

The suite your loved one lives in should be comfortable, safe, and easy to move around in. When visiting a retirement residence, ask questions like:

• Are the rooms spacious and well-lit?

  
  

• Is the bathroom equipped with safety features like walk-in showers and grab bars?

  
  

• Is there personal climate control?

  
  

Windsor Place offers Standard and Large Studio suites with features like plank flooring, LED mirrors, walk-in rainfall showers, integrated bidets, and panoramic views of downtown or the waterfront.

4. Look at the Lifestyle and Activities

Retirement should be fulfilling and enjoyable. A good community will offer a variety of activities that suit different interests and abilities.

Ask about:

• Social events, games, and clubs

  
  

• Fitness and wellness programs

  
  

• Learning opportunities and creative outlets

  
  

• Spiritual and cultural services

  
  

At Windsor Place, residents enjoy gardening, musical entertainment, bingo, exercise programs, book clubs, computer classes, wellness lectures, and more—all designed to nurture the body, mind, and spirit.

5. Ask About the Staff and Care Services

The staff will play a big role in your loved one’s daily life. During your visit, observe how team members interact with residents. Are they kind and respectful? Is care available 24/7?

Windsor Place offers around-the-clock professional support, including:

• Emergency response systems

  
  

• Resident wellness checks

  
  

• Medication administration

  
  

• Assistance with hygiene and personal care

  
  

• Health counseling and referrals

  
  

The team is trained to provide compassionate care while respecting each resident’s independence and dignity.

6. Understand the Costs and What’s Included

Pricing models vary between communities. Make sure you understand what’s included in the monthly fees and what might cost extra.

Windsor Place includes in its packages:

• Gourmet meals and snacks

  
  

• Weekly housekeeping and linen service

  
  

• Personalized wellness programs

  
  

• On-site activities and entertainment

  
  

• Access to the 24/7 Bistro

  
  

Always ask for a full breakdown of services and fees to avoid surprises later on.

7. Trust Your Instincts and Theirs

After touring a residence, ask your loved one how they felt:

• Did they feel welcomed?

  
  

• Could they see themselves living there?

  
  

• Did the environment feel positive and secure?

  
  

While amenities and services matter, it’s the feeling of home that makes the biggest difference.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right retirement community can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. When you take the time to understand your loved one’s needs, explore options, and ask the right questions, you can make a confident and loving choice.

At Windsor Place Retirement Residence, we understand how personal this journey is. That’s why we offer personalized care, beautifully designed suites, and a lifestyle that celebrates independence, comfort, and connection.

Book a tour today at Windsor Place, 617 Queen St. E., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, and let us show you how we make retirement living feel like home.