Karsten SturmayIf you’re planning on moving to a retirement residence, we want you to find the best fit for your lifestyle and needs.
To help you decide, we compiled a list of the best retirement residences in Edmonton you may want to look into. We also studied the potential costs and answered frequently asked questions so you can go in with an informed decision.
What are you waiting for? Dive in with us.
Cost of Retirement Residences in Edmonton
Much like any kind of accommodation or care, many factors affect the cost of retirement residences in Edmonton.
First on the list is the location and size of the retirement home. Some areas are much more expensive than others.
Cities, in particular, may have more expensive retirement homes compared to smaller towns where the cost of real estate is also lower. Meanwhile, the price of the unit you’re taking up also increases the bigger the room is.
You also need to consider the type of care they offer. The more support they provide, the more staff they need to pay, so it makes sense that places which offer specific assisted living arrangements tend to cost more.
Meanwhile, amenities also matter. Places that offer more amenities will likely charge more because things like pools or fitness centers require maintenance.
All in all, in Edmonton these factors translate to an average of $2000 to $3000 per month.
Not to fear, however. While, strictly speaking, most government-issued health insurance does not cover retirement homes, you do have options.
In Alberta, there is a program called Special Needs Assistance for Seniors which offers one-time lump-sum payments as an aid to low-income seniors. This covers appliance upgrades, minor home repairs, and some medical costs although it has a cap of $5000.
Some insurance programs also cover nursing homes, although you will need to consult your provider because not every policy covers this.
In the end, the likely scenario is that you or your family will have to cover the majority of the cost of retirement homes. To give you a clearer picture of possible costs, check out the table below:
Review Criteria for the Best Retirement Residences in Edmonton
In the process of selecting the best retirement residences in Edmonton, we went through over 50 listings serving the Edmonton and surrounding areas.
In doing so, we had to veto many places due to several reasons such as issues with staff, overcharging, and sometimes because they don’t quite fit the criteria we set which include:
Rest assured that we exhausted all resources to bring you this list, so without further ado, let’s dive in!
1. Chartwell Retirement Residences
| Criteria | Rating |
| Location and amenities | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Care Provided | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Chartwell Retirement Residences is the largest senior homes provider in Canada with over 200 locations across the country. In Edmonton alone, they have four locations offering different kinds of lifestyle options for the elderly.
We like this fact because this means we have plenty of options to choose from depending on the kind of care you need. Whether you’re going for independent living, assisted living, or long-term care, Chartwell has options for you within Edmonton.
Having plenty of locations means they also have plenty of amenities, and we know this is what makes or breaks the decision of some people.
Many of their locations in Edmonton have activity rooms, cafes or bistros, convenience stores, dining rooms, gardens, personal mailboxes, and outdoor green spaces among others.
We believe Chartwell is one of the best options for retirement homes in Edmonton because they have different service levels to provide for the differing needs of elderly adults.
Their staff are also some of the most highly praised care providers for being friendly and approachable and being truly caring to their patients.
Also, while they are on the expensive end, care is funded by Alberta Health Services. They also have different suite and accommodation types, so you can find one that best fits your lifestyle and needs as well as your financial capacity.
To qualify for Chartwell, you can be referred by your Home Care case coordinator, then you’ll have to contact the service of your choice to get a housing and financial assessment.
In certain cases, you may also get help to pay for the service if you’re in a low-income bracket, or get income assistance.
All in all, we consider Chartwell Retirement Residences one of the best retirement homes in Edmonton.
Pros
- Multiple locations; plenty of amenities
- Certain locations include housekeeping and laundry services, leisure and fitness activities, and others
- Designated locations provide memory care and personalized support
Cons
- Expensive
Customer Reviews:
A really wonderful community
“I moved to Chartwell Griesbach one year ago and I really enjoy it. The atmosphere is very nice. And everyone is friendly. All the staff are fantastic and treat me well. Coby at the front desk always answers my questions and gives me (the) information I need. The suites are very nice and spacious and (are) cleaned well on a weekly basis. The courtyard is really nice and I always look forward to sitting out there. I know as a new resident I was made to feel welcome and they involved me in activities so I could meet people. It really is a wonderful community.” – Helga Nicholson, Google Reviews (Griesbach)
Keeps residents safe, happy, and entertained
“My mother became a member of the Chartwell Heritage Valley family a few months ago. I use the word family because that is how this place feels. They have thought of EVERYTHING to keep residents safe and happy and entertained and the only appropriate word to describe the staff is ‘angels.’ The care, love, attention and concern staff display to residents AND their families is truly remarkable. I have so much faith and trust in the staff, as displayed by a medical emergency my mother recently had that was calmly and expertly handled, very quickly! 5 GOLD stars is not enough to reflect how I feel about this place. Thank you to all the angels who care for my dear mother and to those who sanitize and prepare her delicious and balanced meals. You are all so very appreciated and respected!” – Bernette West, Google Reviews (Heritage Valley)
2. All Seniors Care Living Centers
| Criteria | Rating |
| Location and amenities | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Care Provided | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
All Seniors Care Living Centers have multiple locations across Canada, and in Edmonton, they have four that we just had to put on this list.
Their locations are typically surrounded by convenience stores and other necessary establishments which we feel is an important consideration for many.
You already know we like having options, so we’re stoked to hear that they offer multiple lifestyle options for our elderly. Much like Chartwell, you can choose between independent or assisted living.
We also like that they offer memory care, as it’s important for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related conditions to have the support they need.
Meanwhile, we are also hearing great things about the food. Most of their suites include a kitchenette so you can make your own, but it’s still a good thing if you don’t want to or can’t cook anymore.
As far as amenities go, we want to highlight the emergency call systems for each suite. They also have individual climate controls, which we think is cool.
On the other hand, they also seem to have great activities for seniors such as live entertainment, bistros, socio-cultural and recreational programs, fitness centers and game rooms among others.
Certain locations provide shuttle buses for daily trips, outings, and medical appointments.
Much like Chartwell, however, All Seniors Care Living Centers can be a bit of a financial burden. They do offer monthly lease agreements, but if you sign a 12-month lease they sometimes offer discounts.
We still suggest you speak thoroughly with a financial advisor or a lawyer to make sure your contract terms are beneficial to you.
Nonetheless, we still consider All Seniors Care Living Centers to be one of the best options for retirement living in Edmonton.
Pros
- Multiple locations
- Different lifestyle options provided
- Pet-friendly
- Wheelchair accessible bathrooms and walk-in closets
Cons
- Not budget-friendly
- Certain services may incur additional charges
Customer Reviews:
Staff were amazing through COVID
“Mom became a participating and loved resident at Mactaggart. Enjoyed the companionship with the other residents and staff, and participated in many of the activities on and off the site. The staff were amazing through the COVID crisis keeping everyone safe and engaged while communicating with the many families. The food was varied and pleasantly served by the great staff. Outings were thoughtfully designed around those with mobility issues as well. Well worth a visit to check it out.” – Jay and Gail D., Assisted Living Center Reviews (Mactaggart Place)
Food is excellent and activities are wonderful
“The staff at Lewis Estates have given excellent care to the residents during the pandemic. They are working diligently to keep everyone safe. The caring attitude is exemplary. Mom feels safe here and I have peace of mind as a consequence.” Don Legatt, Google Reviews (Lewis Estates)
3. Revera Living
| Criteria | Rating |
| Location | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Care Provided | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Revera Living has five retirement residences in Edmonton. They give you access to different lifestyle and accommodation options to fit your needs.
We like that they have different building types to suit different lifestyles. You can try the high-rise senior community of Our Parents’ Home or the cozy suites of Riverbend.
We also like that they are located in central areas close to different establishments. Meanwhile, you will actually get a lot inside the communities themselves because of their amenities which include pubs, cafes, gardens, fitness rooms, salons, art studios and greenhouses.
They offer independent living, assisted living, and memory care, so whatever level of care you need you can be sure to get it here.
However, we would like to note that certain locations aren’t very accessible. For example, Mcconachie Gardens seem to be car-dependent and may require cars to get to most errands around.
Others such as Our Parents’ Home appear to be very walkable, however, so when considering your options that may be something to look into.
We do believe Revera costs about the same as all the places we listed here, but we like that they are recommended by C.A.R.P. (Canadian Association for Retired Persons).
This recommendation comes with an offer as a special benefit for C.A.R.P. members, giving them a $2000 move-in bonus when moving into one of their retirement homes.
All things considered, we believe Revera definitely earned its spot on this list. We still suggest you check out each one of their locations to truly see the right fit for you.
Pros
- Multiple locations
- Offers independent and assisted living as well as memory care
- Locations are close to important establishments
- Offers different recreational activities for seniors
- Certain locations have heated underground parking
- Offers a move-in bonus for C.A.R.P. members
Cons
- Certain locations may have difficulty parking
- Certain locations are car-dependent where almost all errands require a car
Customer Reviews:
Staff are professional, caring, compassionate, and friendly
“Revera Riverbend has been a blessing for my family. There is evidence of a strong and resounding ethic of care upon first arrival onto the property. Well maintained greenery creates an astounding setting for residence. Cleanliness, organization and most importantly compassion resonates throughout the building. The care and attention to detail both with their residence and the families offers comfort and trust. I cannot say enough about the staff! Professional, caring, compassionate and friendly qualities are embedded into their practices! Thank you for creating a home for both of my parents, and making them feel like family!” – Nancy Lastiwka-Durling, Google Reviews (Riverbend)
Very welcoming and friendly staff
“Very welcoming and friendly staff. Great community to retire in. More and more activities as restrictions ease. Staff and residents have done a great job of keeping the building safe through the pandemic. Location can’t be beat for active, independent retirees!” – David Preshing, Google Reviews (Churchill)
4. Lifestyle Options Retirement Communities
| Criteria | Rating |
| Location | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Care Provided | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Lifestyle Options has four locations in Edmonton offering multiple levels of care for the elderly. We included them in the list because we like what they offer, and we think you might, too.
Firstly, we have their different accommodation options. You can choose one or two-bedroom suites with options for a den.
They also have different amenities including a central lobby with fireplace, craft rooms, a mezzanine with grand piano, pubs and salons, fitness rooms, a theatre and a library.
The provided amenities differ per location, and some have resident-kept gardens, which can be a bonus.
We also like that they offer competitive rates and even have move-in incentives for the Riverbend location. They also provide care plans in cooperation with Alberta Health Services that you can discuss with your case manager.
While we do not like that they require additional fees for cleaning and maintenance, we understand that this is sometimes necessary. Pets, meanwhile, are allowed but require a pet deposit.
Not all locations offer the same level of care, but we like that they have a dedicated location, Schonsee, for designated supported living for people with chronic conditions and dementia.
All in all, we are pretty pleased with Lifestyle Options Retirement Communities.
Pros
- Multiple locations and lifestyle options
- Offer move-in incentives for Riverbend
- Certain locations have resident-kept gardens
- Provides care plans through Alberta Health Services Case Manager
Cons
- Cleaning and maintenance require additional fee
- Pets are welcome in certain locations but require pet deposit
- Minimal parking in certain locations
Customer Reviews:
Excellent menu and portions
“I visited my mother and in-law. The place is clean, and friendly and both families are very happy there. This has less stress on the extended families. I do recommend this place to anyone. Let’s not forget the excellent menu and portions.” – Barb Busse, Google Reviews (Terra Losa)
A wonderful and caring environment
“A wonderful and caring environment for those that require assisted living. Clean. Fantastic staff. My papa loves it.” – Cindy Preston, Google Reviews (Schonsee)
5. Waterford Summerlea Retirement Residence
| Criteria | Rating |
| Location | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Care Provided | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
Waterford Summerlea is a great location for independent seniors. They have plenty of activities and amenities to enjoy, including a library, crafts room, a courtyard, gazebo, and a luxurious dining room among others.
However, what we really like about this place is their multiple apartment and suite options for different needs. The bigger and more luxurious units charge higher, but if it’s comfort you need the cost may be worth it.
On the other hand, we are a bit sad because Waterford does not offer assisted living even though they have staff onsite 24/7.
They are a great community if you don’t need much care aside from some housekeeping or chore assistance, but if you or your family member needs round-the-clock supervision or memory care, Waterford will not be able to provide.
Still, for independent living, they have great amenities. They have uncovered parking which is included in the rent, but for a fee, you can park your car in the covered parking.
We also like that they have a beauty/barber shop on-site which charges for each service. For a fee, you can also access their blood pressure clinics, foot care, and hearing clinic.
They also offer prescription delivery and personal care, although once again this may incur additional charges.
Another great thing about Waterford is they offer guest suites to accommodate out-of-town guests, so if you’re visiting a family member in Waterford you already have a place to stay.
What we like best, in the end, is that Waterford has competitive rates, so they’re not impossible to afford. For the level of care and amenities provided, we do believe Waterford is a great place to spend your retirement in.
Pros
- Amenities include a game room, library, crafts rooms, lounge and dining
- Has an outdoor courtyard and gazebo
- Onsite barber/beauty shop and blood pressure, foot care and hearing clinic
- Offers a guest suite for visiting guests
Cons
- No memory care unit
- Independent living only
Customer Reviews:
A wonderful and lovely place
“I have so much love for Waterford and the whole team and the people that live there. They go out of their way to make sure all residents are cared for and they succeed. A lot of love is given and the staff here is excellent. The way they handled the pandemics was impeccable. You are a very lucky person if you are going to make the move to Waterford. You will make friends very quickly and not only just that but the food is amazing. I could list so many wonderful things about Waterford but I would take up the page. The employees are fantastic and a lot of them have been there for years and they know all the names of the residents. Just a wonderful and lovely place.” – Krista Mellish, Google Reviews
Recreation is encouraged and staff really cares
“It all comes down to what you get for your money. My Dad paid about the same at Chartwell and Waterford is much nicer and the food is so much better. There is a large green space outside and two large indoor common areas. The dining room is beautiful and there is a huge buffet on Sundays for residents and family. Recreation is encouraged and he feels that the staff really cares about him. If you are looking for a gym or swimming pool you won’t find it here but you will pay more for those facilities.” – Debbie C., Yelp Reviews
6. St. Andrew’s Centre
| Criteria | Rating |
| Location and amenities | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Care Provided | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
St. Andrew’s Centre is a facility that has been providing seniors with affordable and safe residential options ever since its establishment back in 1980. Offering independent living and an inclusive community, with convenient access to maintenance, social, and support services.
We like that their suites are spacious and complete with amenities such as security, kitchenette facilities, and utilities to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free residence.
Furthermore, their website also conveniently offers virtual tours so that clients can have a glimpse of their desired suite in the comfort of their homes.
Note though for clients intending to bring in pets and take care of them in their suites, there will be a $500 deposit and vet requirements to be filled beforehand.
Overall, with cafes with comprehensive meal packages, exercise facilities, and a variety of on-site pampering services nearby, we highly recommend them for senior clients looking for a convenient and warm community to move into.
Pros
- Active social community
- Accommodating amenities included
- Versatile add-on services
Cons
- Additional charges for some services
FAQs About the Best Retirement Residences in Edmonton
Not quite ready for retirement yet? Check out these fun accommodation options around Edmonton:
