My aunt ended up in one of the worst retirement homes I’ve ever seen. The place was run-down, the staff was rude, and the food tasted like cardboard.
Needless to say, I immediately got her out of that dreadful situation and vowed to find her a much better living arrangement.
That experience led me and the rest of The Waterview Vancouver team to investigate the top retirement homes in the city. We toured several facilities, talked to residents, and reviewed reports to find the absolute best.
Here’s who made it onto our list of the best retirement homes the city has to offer.
How much does it cost to live in a retirement home in Vancouver?
It costs at least 2,500 CAD to live in a retirement home in Vancouver.
The final cost will vary depending on whether you need assisted living, memory care, and more.
How We Chose
1. Granville Gardens Retirement Residence
Address: 1550 W 49th Ave #100
Contact details: +1 (604) 563-3540
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Granville Gardens’ atmosphere is just as tranquil as its Japanese-inspired gardens. We could have spent most of our tour in their gardens alone!
What truly stood out, however, was their exceptional team. We witnessed firsthand their warmth and attentiveness in their interactions with residents, whether in independent living or assisted care.
With live entertainment, religious services, and fitness classes, there’s always something engaging happening. During our visit, we even got to sit on one of their movie screenings!
Residents enthusiastically spoke about the Fit Minds and Java Music Club activities, crediting them for keeping their minds sharp and active. Several others shared how much they love the private dining room and monthly brunches.
Speaking of food, the meals here are quite healthy. The chef clued us in on a little secret: they use superfoods in each meal, prioritizing nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
However, a few residents mentioned that the on-site hair salon could use some upgrades as it’s a bit worn down.
Comfort and community
“I have been living at Granville Gardens and it is truly the best senior living that I could have hoped to find! I am an independent senior and Granville Gardens offers everything that I need and want at this time in my life. Michael Tablit, the outstanding General Manager of Granville Gardens, has dedicated himself to making sure that with his leadership, this residence is the best possible place for senior living; and all of his management team and staff are truly committed to the well-being of every resident. The accommodations are beautiful, the dining room serves fantastic meals three times a day (all included in the price), the wonderful range of many different activities throughout every day of the week every day of the year are extremely well organized and enjoyable, and I have made new great friends with many of the residents. In addition, the lovely Kerrisdale neighbourhood is within an easy distance including with Granville Gardens free weekly van shuttle trips for shopping and banking, and the van also takes residents (at no cost) on many different excursions to wonderful locations and attractions in Vancouver. I can join whatever activities I want, or I can spend quiet time by myself. It is the best of both worlds and I want to live here for the rest of my life!”
Barbara.
–Barbara Q, Google Reviews
The meals are delicious and offers a great variety
“We’ve recently moved my grandmother to Granville Gardens, as it was time for her to not be living by herself anymore. It is such a nice community here – the meals are delicious and offers a great variety, there are plenty of activities for my grandmother to join if she wants to, the other residents seem friendly and she seemed to have made some friends already, there are nice outside areas that are safe, and most importantly, the staff are friendly and attentive. We don’t have to worry about her not eating enough or just sitting around alone all day, and best of all, Granville Gardens doesn’t seem like an old person’s home. This is the best decision we all could have made for her.”
–Witty Lau, Google Reviews
2. Sunrise of Vancouver
Address: 999 W 57th Ave
Contact details: +1 (604) 261-5799
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you or a loved one are searching for long-term and memory care services, check out Sunrise of Vancouver.
With 24-hour nursing, dietitian services, and end-of-life care, many families we interviewed felt confident that their loved ones were well looked after. Residents even have access to in-house physicians.
The living spaces also vary from studios to companion suites, all offering great views. Plus, they are pet-friendly.
During our visit, we even met a few furry residents who seemed completely at home.
In addition to comfortable living arrangements, Sunrise encourages an active lifestyle. Their walking club encourages physical fitness, while the Scrabble Club offers a fun way for residents to connect.
The only downside we noticed was the food, which we found to be a bit bland.
You will be cared for with compassion and empathy
“I recently spent 2 months at Sunrise senior living after hospitalization for a compound fracture of my left ankle. I can not speak highly enough of the care I received while there. From Steven who met me at the hospital to the care managers, dining room staff and activity personnel my stay not only greatly assisted my recovery but also provided an anxiety free environment. I would highly recommend Sunrise as a place for recovery from a hospitalization. You will not only feel welcomed by the staff but you will be cared for with compassion and empathy.”
–Cathy Wildgoose, Google Reviews
Knowledgeable professionals who delivered exceptional care
“Although the phrase, “There’s no place like home” is true, when someone can no longer live safely at home, Sunrise of Vancouver is the perfect alternative.
When our mother could no longer live independently, despite the fact that she was as “sharp as a tack”, we started researching different assisted living residences. Sunrise of Vancouver fulfilled all of our requirements. On top of that, we had received a wonderful recommendation from a friend whose mother had recently been a resident.
From the moment our mother moved into Sunrise of Vancouver we knew we had made the right decision. The entire staff were consistently cheerful, friendly, kind and respectful to all the residents and their families. There was a positive sense of community in a warm and inviting environment.
Our mother’s designated Care managers were knowledgeable professionals who delivered exceptional care in a warmhearted way. They always remembered our mother’s “likes” and went out of their way to assist her if necessary. She enjoyed chatting and laughing with them.
Yes, “There’s no place like home”, but Sunrise Of Vancouver made our mother’s last home so welcoming and comforting. We will be forever grateful.
Brenda Young and Arlene Alexander”
–Brenda Young, Google Reviews
3. Cedar Springs PARC
Address: 3633 Mt Seymour Pkwy
Contact details: +1 (604) 986-3633
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
If you’re on the hunt for a retirement home that truly has it all, Cedar Springs PARC could be the perfect fit.
The reception and management team is available on-site during the day. Plus, they have 24/7 staff trained in first aid to ensure residents are well cared for.
The staff pointed out to us all the emergency pull cords, personal pendants, and video monitors during our visit. This definitely provided peace of mind.
With weekly outings, movie nights, and fitness classes, there’s always something happening. We particularly loved the lively fireside lounge, not to mention the bustling billiards and games area.
Other residents shared their excitement about the convenient access to Parkgate Shopping Centre, Seymour Golf and Country Club, and many scenic walking trails.
And get this—they even have a greenhouse! We joined in one of their gardening events during our visit and it was loads of fun.
The only complaint we have about this retirement home is that good parking can be hard to find.
The staff were warm and generous
“I want to give a huge thank you to the staff at Cedar Springs Park. My mom moved there 3 and 1/2 years ago, at 92 years old in the middle of the COVID19 pandemic. The staff did everything they could to make this transition for my mom as smooth as it could possibly be. She remained there until the end of her life. She took advantage of the social activities and made new friends during her time there. The staff were warm and generous and took time to know her and share time with her. This was a huge transition, and it could not have gone better. Thank you to the staff. I will forever be grateful. Karen Muenter (daughter of Ann G.)”
–Karen Muenter, Google Reviews
Helpful, understanding, and friendly staff
“My parents moved in July 2021 and what a difference Cedar Springs has made to their lives! They’ve expanded their social circle by attending happy hours and discussion groups, they enjoy at least one excursion a month, and both love the food. Recently they enjoyed a wine tasting and food pairing event – they have a richer social than I do! The staff is always very helpful, understanding and friendly. We always joke that it’s like living on a cruise ship but it really is. They love the quiet, park-like setting of the Mt Seymour area with services and amenities just across the road in Parkgate Village, too. Very happy with Cedar Springs!”
–Susanne Macauley, Google Reviews
4. Chartwell Churchill House Retirement Residence
Address: 150 W 29th St
Contact details: +1 (778) 382-0099
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Chartwell Churchill House Retirement Residence is an impressive choice for seniors looking for an independent lifestyle with the added comfort of on-site assistance.
During our visit, we found it to be a well-rounded and welcoming community.
The studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites are spacious and comfortable. Plus, there are kitchenettes and extra dens in some units for those who appreciate a bit more independence.
We were particularly struck by the stunning mountain views from one of the suites!
But the appeal doesn’t stop there. Residents are spoiled for entertainment with fitness classes, hobby groups, and live performances.
We especially loved the tearoom, and the library is the perfect cozy little nook for bookworms. To top it off, they have a fitness center and billiards room to enjoy.
Other residents we chatted with praised the convenience of the on-site hairdresser. This makes it easy for them to look their best without the hassle of off-site appointments.
Several people especially enjoyed organized outings to nearby attractions like Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain.
However, these perks come at a price, as the cost of living here is pretty high.
The residents and staff are such a happy bunch
“I have had the pleasure of facilitating drumming with the residents of Churchill House for over 2 years now. The residents and staff are such a happy bunch. From the time you walk in , the staff are very welcoming, professional and accommodating. Residents have mentioned how impressed they are with the activities that are provided for them, describing it as being on a cruise – except they are not out to sea! It seems a very happy place for seniors to live. I just met Sue who is the new program manager – she has a beautiful bubbly energy and I look forward to working with her.”
–Abby GB, Google Reviews
Staff do their best to ensure residents feel comfortable
“My parents are very happy staying at Churchill and we have peace of mind knowing they are well looked-after. All staff from the front desk, the care team, dining services and cleaning staff do their best to ensure residents feel comfortable and at-home. The other residents have been very welcoming and the activities are creative and engaging.
Thank you!”
–Manjula Dufresne, Google Reviews
5. Legacy Senior Living (The Leo Wertman Residence)
Address: 611 W 41st Ave
Contact details: +1 (604) 240-8550
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you’re looking for a retirement home with excellent comfort, community, and care, consider Legacy Senior Living.
Each air-conditioned suite we saw was equipped with every amenity imaginable. We could see why several residents we interviewed love staying here.
Additionally, many of them praised the home’s personal alert system.
Knowing that trained resident attendants are just a call away for any urgent needs provides many people with incredible peace of mind. This includes situations like sudden illnesses or falls.
Meanwhile, others praised Legacy’s dedicated team of experts in fitness, nutrition, and brain health.
Speaking of living well, there’s always a variety of activities available. They host chair yoga, Zumba classes, and Spanish lessons.
Several residents opened up about their favorite activities, expressing excitement for seated balloon volleyball and the lively Happy Hour gatherings.
They also mentioned enjoying the Men’s and Ladies Club, the Knit and Chat group, and the sing-along sessions.
However, some people did complain about the food menu lacking in variety.
They are very helpful
“The food, staff, management, and the trainer are all great here. They are very helpful when it came to answering questions. Staff there are very polite. Food is top notch! All in all, awesome place to be for independent living at a retirement community!”
–Imthe Man, Google Reviews
Exceptional to say the least
“My aunt has lived there a while now, and we dine at the restaurant when I visit. The management and staff are always super friendly and helpful. My aunt loves them. And the food! Wow! Exceptional to say the least.”
–Marko Paulic, Google Reviews