Staying put vs moving: how to decide

Last reviewed October 30, 2026

Many people would prefer to stay in their own home as long as possible. For some, a few smart changes make that easy. For others, the cost and effort of adapting the house outweigh the benefits of staying. Here's how to weigh it up honestly.

What "aging in place" usually involves

Home modifications

• Grab bars in bathrooms, and a walk-in or curbless shower
• A main-floor bedroom and bathroom, or converting a den
• Stair lifts, or a ramp at the entrance
• Better lighting, lever handles and non-slip flooring
• Moving laundry to the main floor

Services

• Snow removal, lawn care and housekeeping
• Grocery delivery and meal services
• Home care. Publicly funded home and community care is arranged through Ontario Health atHome, and private services can supplement it.
• Transportation, including London's specialized transit service for eligible riders

When staying makes sense

• Your home is already mostly on one level, or easy to adapt.
• You're close to family, friends, shops and healthcare.
• The modifications you need are affordable relative to the cost of moving.
• You love your neighbourhood and community, and that connection matters to your wellbeing.

When moving makes more sense

• Bedrooms and the only full bathroom are upstairs, and there's no practical way to change that.
• The house needs major repairs (roof, furnace, windows) on top of accessibility changes.
• The yard and snow are more than you can manage or want to pay for.
• You're isolated: driving is getting harder and nothing is within walking distance.
• Much of your wealth is tied up in the house and you'd like to free some of it.

Help with the cost of modifications

Federal tax credits such as the Home Accessibility Tax Credit may help with eligible renovations, and the Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit may apply if you create a secondary unit so a senior can live with family. Programs change, so check the CRA, the Province of Ontario and the City of London for current options.

A third path: living with family

Some families create a secondary suite, such as a basement apartment or garden suite, so a parent can live independently but close by. London permits additional residential units on many residential lots. Our sister site London Income Property explains what's allowed. It's a big decision for everyone involved, so talk openly about privacy, costs and care expectations first.

Safety first, whatever you decide

Whether you stay or move, a few inexpensive changes reduce the risk of falls, the most common cause of injury for older adults: secure handrails on both sides of stairs, night lights in hallways and bathrooms, removing loose rugs, and keeping frequently used items within easy reach. An occupational therapist can do a home assessment and recommend changes specific to you.

A simple framework

1. List what you'd need to stay safely and comfortably for the next ten years.
2. Get quotes for the modifications and estimate annual service costs.
3. Find out what your home would sell for, and what a suitable next home would cost.
4. Compare the totals, then weigh in the things money can't measure.
5. Revisit the decision every couple of years, or after any change in health.