Retiring in Canmore – What to Know
Retiring In Canmore
Thinking about retiring in Canmore? You’re not alone. Many Albertans and Canadians have looked to this scenic mountain town for years as a perfect place to spend one’s golden years. With the right mix of adventure and comfort, Canmore makes a great option for those looking towards retirement.
Today, let’s take a look at what you might be wise to look for in a retirement residence in Canmore, as well as some great resources and activities for seniors here in town.
Retiring in Canmore – Things to look for in a Home
As we age, our needs change. Things like excessive stairs and levels can be tough on our bodies. While you may currently own a home in Canmore that doesn’t meet these needs, you could explore modifying and renovating your home. Most importantly, when we have a home suited for “aging in place,” we avoid having to make a big move down the line (say in our 80s or 90s).
In considering a retirement property in Canmore, look for the following:
- The floor space should be large enough for ease of movement
- There should be lots of bright lighting
- The storage space should be easy to reach to
- The Kitchen counters should neither be too high nor too low
- Wider walkways are best
- Single storey layout without entry stairs (elevator to your floor in a multi-storey works well)
- Avoid having random steps
- There should ideally be a walk-in shower with a seat
For instance, even if your current Canmore home doesn’t meet these criteria when make your purchase, many of these modifications are possible to do through renovation. Often people will purchase their first Canmore home when they have a young family, or are perhaps in their prime skiing years. As needs change, your house should change with you.
Canmore Retirement Resources for Seniors
Canmore has a vibrant seniors community! The Canmore Seniors Association is a fantastic resource for anyone new to the community. A charitable, volunteer-led organization, Canmore Seniors Association enhances the lives of our members through indoor and outdoor activities, social events and learning opportunities. Annual membership, $45 per year, is open to all seniors 55 years and older and runs from July 1 to June 30.
From their website:
“From its small beginnings in 1976 as a collaborative project between the Town of Canmore’s Family and Community Support Services and our founding members, Canmore Seniors Association today has over 850 members and runs a variety of programs and activities. The heart of the CSA is our Seniors’ Centre in downtown Canmore, supported by the Town of Canmore.
From pickleball to bocce, floor curling to cross country skiing – our outdoor and indoor sports cater to all abilities and fitness levels. And if you’re looking to get physical, increase flexibility or mobility, our fitness programs with varying degrees of intensity, from very gentle to Get-Up-and-Go or even juggling could be the answer. For control, suppleness and calmness, try Hatha Yoga or Tai Chi. If dancing is in your blood – we provide opportunities for learning or practicing ballroom, Latin, Scottish and line dancing.”
A great group within the Canmore Seniors Association is the “Meanderthals.” This group takes hikes into the surrounding mountain landscape (organized & lead). Abilities range from relatively easy D-rated to challenging A-rated hikes.
Activities & Things To Do
As for activities, Canmore is a community that keeps on giving. In addition to our incredible Rocky Mountain landscape and scenery, we have a huge assortment of local shops, restaurants and sporting activities ready to be enjoyed for visitors of all ages.
- Walking
- Hiking
- Biking
- Kayaking/Canoeing
- Downhill & Nordic Skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Arts & Music Festivals
- Farmers Markets
- Elevation Place activities – fitness, swimming & climbing
- Arts Place activities & programming
- Social & Service Clubs (Lions, Rotary)
Retiring in Canmore
In conclusion, Canmore is a small town, but it packs a big punch for anyone looking to get the most out of life. Even if you aren’t an Olympic athlete (we have a few of those…), there are so many fulfilling and engaging activities and options for people of all ages here.
If you’re considering retiring in Canmore, Banff or anywhere in the Alberta Rockies, reach out to me. I would be happy to chat with you about our special town. I’m also here to assist you in finding the ideal property for your specific needs. Cheers!
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