New Brunswick is one of four Atlantic provinces and is also a bilingual province. Approximately two-thirds of the province declare themselves anglophones, while one-third are francophones. In 2020 the estimated population is around 780,000 people. The Atlantic provinces are a popular destination for seniors. However, the climate in the province is more severe than the other Maritime provinces. There are three major urban areas within the province, which is the Greater Moncton, Greater Saint John, and the Greater Fredericton. Within these three urban areas are different options for senior housing and senior living.
The cost of senior housing varies, and much of it depends on the location, amenities, and the size of the room, condo, or apartment. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s annual review of seniors’ residences market, the province has seen a 19% increase in the average rent of standard spaces. However, when compared to the rest of Atlantic Canada, it remains the most affordable. In 2019 the vacancy rate for standard spaces decreased by 1% to 8.3%. Overall, the number of standard spaces decreased by 14%, and the number of residents decreased by 6% during 2019. There is a variety of senior housing options, which include independent living, assisted living, retirement communities, or active senior communities. Choosing the right one is crucial because it should provide the person with everything they need.
Choosing Assisted Living or Independent Senior Housing Options in New Brunswick
Every older adult is different, and as a person ages, their needs change, and it is essential to plan future housing. A reason usually prompts the search for senior housing or senior living in New Brunswick. For example, some seniors no longer want the responsibility of owning a home and want to downsize. The tasks of home maintenance, yard work, and house cleaning become too much to manage. There are other circumstances where they would require assistance with the tasks of daily living. The key to making the best choice is to match the housing with lifestyle, health, and financial needs. Whether this is modifying your home to make it more comfortable or moving to a housing facility with more support and social options. Many retirement communities provide extensive social amenities, recreation, meal services, and other services to its residents.
There are three common types of senior housing, which is assisted living, retirement communities, and independent living. New Brunswick offers a variety of retirement living options for seniors, and there is a wide variety of affordable choices for seniors. Retirement communities are excellent options because of the extensive amenities and services offered. Most retirement communities offer dining services, transportation, recreation, and social events. Retirement homes are great for meeting others and socializing and help older adults remain connected to the community. When choosing retirement home needs, there are some things to consider. For example, your physical and medical needs and how much assistance you may or may not require. As a person ages, they will eventually need help with the activities of daily life. It is also essential to consider the location and accessibility because circumstances could change. Social and emotional needs are also crucial to consider, such as staying close to friends or family. Finally, financial needs as the cost of retirement are different with each Atlantic province.
Independent living is any type of housing arrangement designed exclusively for seniors. Typically, this housing is for those aged 55 and older, and the style of housing varies. For example, this could include apartment-style living, free-standing homes, condos, or senior communities. The housing is generally friendlier to older adults, and it is easier for them to navigate with no maintenance or yard work to worry about. Residents live independently, and most communities offer amenities, activities, and services. Independent living facilities are aimed at older adults who need little or no assistance with the activities of daily life. Most types of housing do no offer medical care or nursing, and most seniors choose to live close to the amenities they need. It is good to consider having senior housing close to shopping, food stores, transit, healthcare, churches, and walking trails. Independent living may be the best choice if you or your loved one requires little to no assistance with the tasks of daily life. Also, if you no longer want the maintenance of a home and want to live within a social community.
Assisted living facilities are options for those who need help with some of the activities of daily living. For example, this could include cooking, cleaning, laundry, and travelling. Most assisted living or long-term care in New Brunswick provides 24-hour support and access. When choosing assisted living, it is a good idea to have a budget in mind and determine what level of care is needed. Assisted living is a good choice if the person requires more personal care services but does not require round-the-clock medical care and supervision.
The Senior Population in New Brunswick
According to a New Brunswick Action Plan regarding housing strategy, the demographic within the province is unique. The number and proportion of seniors in the population are increasing at a faster pace than in other parts of Canada. Statistics Canada projects by the year 2036, there will be an increase of 56.9% in the number of seniors aged 65 and older, which would represent 30.9% of the population. Homeownership within the province is higher than the national average, and 74% of residents own their homes, which includes seniors. However, there will be a need for more senior housing as some seniors will not be able to pass their home to the next generation or are no longer able to maintain it.
