Hamilton Seniors Co-Housing

Senior cohousing provides a balance between privacy and community. Residents live in their own units but share amenities such as gardens, activity rooms, and communal areas that encourage interaction and connection. Each community or residence is usually self-managed by the residents, who collaborate on decisions, maintain the property, and provide mutual support.

This type of housing suits seniors who wish to age in place among peers while maintaining their independence. Cohousing encourages social contact, reduces isolation, and allows participants to share resources, caregiving, and household responsibilities in ways that benefit everyone.

While formal senior cohousing developments remain limited in Canada, some exist in Ontario and British Columbia. In other cases, small groups of individuals or couples create their own version by purchasing a shared property and organizing it as a private cohousing venture.

Residents generally own their individual homes or units within the community and share ownership of common spaces such as dining areas, gardens, and workshops. A common house may include shared dining, kitchens, laundry, and gathering rooms, along with outdoor areas designed to encourage interaction.

Some cohousing developments are organized as larger multi-unit communities, while others may consist of one or two houses that accommodate four to six couples, singles, or a mix of both. Each model is designed to balance privacy with connection.

Cohousing is not considered assisted living, but residents may coordinate shared caregiving or hire outside help as needs change. It offers a unique balance of independence, participation, and mutual support in a socially connected setting.

• Maintains independence while fostering a sense of belonging and connection
• Reduces isolation through shared spaces and daily interaction
• Encourages participation and community-driven decision-making
• Provides cost efficiency through shared expenses and collective resources
• Supports environmental and social sustainability
• Enhances emotional well-being through purpose, companionship, and engagement

If cohousing is not the right fit, seniors in Hamilton may also explore:

• Independent Living
• Independent Living for Purchase
• Independent Living plus Care Services
• Supportive Housing
• Retirement Homes

Each of these options offers different levels of independence, amenities, and services to meet varying needs and preferences.

What makes senior cohousing different from a retirement home?
Cohousing is self-managed and focuses on shared participation rather than professional management or regulated care. Retirement homes are licensed under the Retirement Homes Act and provide services such as meals, housekeeping, and personal care.

Can I create my own cohousing environment?
Yes. Some people form their own cohousing arrangements by purchasing a property with trusted friends or relatives and sharing costs, caregiving, and responsibilities. This approach allows for flexibility and personalization while keeping living costs manageable.

Do cohousing communities offer care services?
Cohousing is not a care model, but residents often coordinate or share caregiving privately. The emphasis is on independence supported by a social network rather than formalized healthcare delivery.

Is cohousing affordable?
Because resources and common spaces are shared, many seniors find cohousing to be more economical than living alone. The ownership model allows residents to maintain equity while sharing costs such as maintenance and utilities.

Where can I learn more about senior cohousing in Canada?
To explore current and planned cohousing communities across the country, visit cohousing.ca.