Aging in High-Rise Condos: Exploring Age-Friendly Community Planning and Housing in Toronto

Abstract

This Major Paper explores seniors’ experiences with aging in place in high-rise condominium buildings in North York, Toronto, and how these environments support or hinder age-friendly community planning, housing, and the well-being of seniors. With the aging population in North York and other areas of Ontario increasing, it is important for governments, planners, and developers to plan and design homes and communities that respond to seniors’ needs. This study examines the accessibility, safety, affordability, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability of high-rise condominiums, as well as proximity to healthcare services and access to age-friendly transportation that influence seniors’ ability to age in place. The study uses a qualitative case study methodology to investigate how seniors perceive and experience age-friendliness in their residential and community environments. Data collection includes semi-structured interviews with seniors, city and developer planners, and condominium stakeholders, with a residential mobility study embedded within the interviews. Additional methods include participant observation, on-site field observations, an accessibility audit, literature and policy analysis, and an analytical framework. Findings are interpreted through a multidimensional theoretical framework comprising interpretivism, intersectionality theory, the press-competence model, and Nancy Fraser’s (2013) framework of social justice. The findings highlight that aging in place in high-rise condominiums is influenced by interconnecting factors such as building design, accessibility, social relationships, condominium governance, and easy access to transportation and neighbouring services. Senior participants in this study were content with their living conditions and would rather remain in their homes and communities than move to senior homes. Senior participants also mentioned feeling safe, part of the community, and supported by building maintenance and nearby green spaces. Some issues were recognized, particularly with affordability and the fact that accessibility needs can vary as seniors age, necessitating home modifications. Overall, the findings indicate that condos can facilitate aging in place; however, as senior residents’ needs change over time, certain adjustments to condominium design, services, and supports will be required.