Multigenerational Home or Retirement Home: How to Choose the Right Option

In today’s economic climate, multigenerational homes are becoming an increasingly attractive housing option for many Canadian families. According to an October 2026 survey conducted by Léger for RBC among 1,810 Canadians, including 384 Quebecers, 53% of prospective homebuyers surveyed said they would consider purchasing a multigenerational home. Several factors help explain this growing interest. Among those considering this type of housing, 34% believe it is becoming more common because housing is increasingly unaffordable, while 32% see it as a practical way to manage housing costs.

For many families, these financial pressures intersect with another reality: their parents are getting older. Having an aging parent move into the family home may seem like a practical way to share expenses, stay connected and provide support with everyday tasks.

However, deciding whether to live in a multigenerational home—whether by purchasing a new property or renovating an existing one—involves much more than finances. Families must also consider their parent’s level of independence, safety needs, privacy, the availability of family caregivers and how their health may change over time.

This article compares multigenerational living with retirement home living to help families make an informed decision. Before examining the costs and benefits of each option, let’s look at what living together across generations actually involves.

What Is a Multigenerational Home?

Although multigenerational homes are attracting growing interest, it is important to understand what this type of property involves. Municipal bylaws and building regulations can impose specific requirements on these housing arrangements.

What Is the Difference Between a Multigenerational Home and an Intergenerational Home?

In Canada, the terms multigenerational home and intergenerational home are often used interchangeably to describe a home shared by members of different generations of the same family. However, there can be a distinction.

An intergenerational home, sometimes called a two-generation home, is generally designed to accommodate two generations. A multigenerational home is a broader term that can refer to three or more generations living under one roof.

In either case, the property is typically a single-family home adapted to allow relatives to live together while maintaining a degree of independence and privacy.

How Can You Create a Living Space for an Aging Parent?

To accommodate an aging parent comfortably, a home needs to be carefully planned. An intergenerational living space may take the form of a side addition, an additional storey, a converted basement or a space above the garage.

Depending on the municipality, regulations may require the additional unit to have a separate entrance, private access, and its own kitchen and bathroom. In some cases, the units must remain part of a single property with one civic address.

Before beginning renovations, check local zoning bylaws, permit requirements and building codes to confirm what is allowed.

Is a Multigenerational Home Suitable for Every Older Adult?

Living close to family can provide reassurance and make everyday support easier. However, a multigenerational home is generally better suited to older adults who remain relatively independent.

If a parent has significant cognitive impairment or requires substantial daily assistance, such as extensive personal care or ongoing medical supervision, a multigenerational home cannot replace the expertise of healthcare professionals. Living under the same roof—or in a separate unit nearby—does not guarantee that someone will always be available to provide assistance.

Families should consider both their parent’s current needs and the possibility that those needs may increase over time.

What Are the Benefits of Having an Aging Parent Live at Home?

Multigenerational homes have gained popularity partly because they may offer practical benefits at a time when housing and senior accommodation costs place pressure on family budgets.

Sharing Housing Expenses

Living with an aging parent can help a family share recurring expenses, including mortgage payments, property taxes, electricity and maintenance costs.

The federal government also offers the Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit (MHRTC), which may provide a credit of up to $7,250 for qualifying renovations that create a self-contained secondary unit for an eligible family member, including a person aged 65 or older. Eligibility requirements and limits apply, so families should consult the Canada Revenue Agency’s information on the Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit.

However, the potential savings depend on the family’s circumstances, the renovations required and the financial arrangements between relatives. Costs may include construction, rent or contributions toward the property, as well as monthly household bills.

Families should calculate the total cost of the arrangement before assuming that multigenerational living will be less expensive than a retirement home.

Staying Close to Family and Reducing Social Isolation

Living with family can create more opportunities for social interaction and help older adults feel connected to their loved ones. The Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) highlights the importance of social interactions for older adults’ health and well-being.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Nasreen Khatri has also discussed the relationship between social isolation, stress and cognitive health, including concerns about conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Sharing meals, spending time together and participating in family activities can help create a sense of belonging. However, living together does not automatically prevent loneliness. The quality of family relationships, opportunities for social interaction and the older adult’s own preferences remain important.

Making Everyday Support Easier

One of the main advantages of a multigenerational home is the opportunity to coordinate everyday assistance more easily.

Family members may be able to help with grocery shopping, meal preparation and transportation to medical appointments. In return, an independent grandparent may sometimes contribute to family life, such as by spending time with grandchildren.

These arrangements can make daily routines easier to manage and may reduce certain expenses, such as childcare. However, the extent of this mutual support depends on the older adult’s abilities, the family’s circumstances and the time everyone can realistically commit.

Living with an Aging Parent: What Are the Challenges?

Despite its potential benefits, living with an aging parent is not a solution that works for every family. It is important to consider the practical limitations and responsibilities involved to reduce the risk of stress and caregiver burnout.

Family Availability and the Demands of Caregiving

Living in the same house does not mean a family member will always be available when help is needed. Adult children may need to balance employment, raising their own children and personal responsibilities.

Caregiver burnout is a genuine concern. Supporting a parent who needs regular assistance can require a substantial time commitment, and those responsibilities may become more demanding as the parent’s health and independence change.

Before choosing this arrangement, families should discuss who will provide assistance, how responsibilities will be shared and what additional support may be required.

Privacy and Family Balance

For multigenerational living to work well, open communication is essential. Potential sources of conflict include household responsibilities, noise, schedules, shared spaces and the need for privacy.

Establishing clear boundaries can help each household maintain its independence. Families should also discuss what would happen if someone wanted to move out, sell the property or change the living arrangement.

The Hidden Costs of Multigenerational Living

Creating a separate living space for an aging parent can be a major renovation project. Municipal permits may be required, and some municipalities have strict rules governing secondary units or intergenerational housing.

Renovation expenses can increase quickly, especially when the project involves installing a kitchen, improving soundproofing or making the home more accessible for someone with reduced mobility. Families should also consider insurance costs and potential legal or notarial fees if the property is purchased through a co-ownership arrangement.

A realistic budget should include both upfront expenses and the ongoing cost of maintaining the property.

What Happens If a Parent’s Independence Declines?

This is one of the most important questions to consider. A home that works well for an independent older adult may no longer be suitable if the person begins using a wheelchair or develops significant cognitive impairment.

If you notice changes in your parent’s ability to move around safely, read our guide to mobility loss in older adults: signs to watch for and possible solutions.

Even a carefully adapted home has limitations. If you can no longer ensure your parent’s safety at home, it is important to recognize the warning signs that an older adult living alone may be in an unsafe situation.

The family may need to reconsider the living arrangement or explore additional home care and senior living options.

When Is a Retirement Home a Better Option?

If living together is not practical or no longer meets an older adult’s needs, a retirement home may provide a more suitable living environment, depending on the services available and the person’s care requirements.

Choosing a retirement home does not mean giving up on a parent. In many cases, it can be a way to ensure that their needs are met while allowing family relationships to focus more on spending meaningful time together.

When a Parent Needs Help with Daily Activities

A retirement home or other senior living setting may be appropriate when an older adult needs regular assistance with activities of daily living.

Depending on the residence and the services included, support may be available with personal hygiene, dressing, meals and housekeeping. Services vary considerably from one location to another. Some private seniors’ residences provide primarily accommodation and hospitality services, while others offer access to qualified nursing staff or additional care services.

Families should confirm exactly what assistance is available, whether it is included in the monthly fee and whether the residence can accommodate changing care needs.

When Safety or Social Isolation Becomes a Concern

A retirement home may be worth considering when the family home presents safety risks or when an older adult is increasingly isolated.

Warning signs may include repeated falls, leaving the stove on, difficulty preparing nutritious meals or persistent loneliness. Depending on the residence, features such as emergency call systems, accessibility measures, organized activities and staff availability can provide additional support.

However, the level of supervision and care varies by residence. Families should ask about staffing, emergency procedures and the services provided at different times of day and night.

What Types of Senior Living Options Are Available in Quebec?

Quebec has several types of accommodation for older adults, and each serves different needs.

Private seniors’ residences (RPA) generally accommodate independent older adults and those with some loss of independence who want housing, services and varying levels of support.

For people who need more substantial assistance, intermediate resources (RI) or long-term care centres (CHSLDs) may be appropriate, depending on their assessed needs and eligibility.

These settings are not interchangeable. The right option depends on the person’s level of independence, health, care requirements and eligibility for available services.

To learn about the different types of accommodation and services available in Quebec, families can explore the senior living options directory.

Multigenerational Home vs. Retirement Home: How Do the Two Options Compare?

The right choice depends on a realistic assessment of the family’s financial resources, physical capabilities and emotional needs. Comparing the total costs is important, but families should also consider safety, privacy, caregiving responsibilities and future changes in the older adult’s health.

Compare the Total Cost of Each Option

When comparing a multigenerational home with a retirement home, look beyond the initial monthly cost.

For a family home, consider the purchase price or major renovations, property taxes, insurance, maintenance and the potential cost of private home care if the older adult needs more assistance in the future.

The cost of a retirement home typically includes accommodation and may include services such as meals, housekeeping, security features and recreational activities, depending on the residence and package selected. These services may reduce some of the practical and financial responsibilities placed on family members.

Compare projected costs over five to ten years to get a more complete picture. Include potential renovation expenses, additional care and changes in the older adult’s needs.

Assess the Older Adult’s Independence and Safety

Should an aging parent move into the family home or a retirement home?

Living together may be a workable option if the home can be adapted with features such as grab bars and accessible pathways, and if there are no major hazards such as difficult stairways.

However, if a parent has Alzheimer’s disease and is prone to wandering at night, a setting with appropriate supervision and support may be more suitable. Families should assess the level of care available rather than assuming that every retirement home provides continuous supervision or specialized dementia care.

Consider How Much Time Family Members Can Provide

Welcoming an aging parent into the family home can involve a significant time commitment. Family members may need to coordinate medical appointments, shopping, meals and personal care.

In a retirement home, some of these practical responsibilities may be handled by staff, depending on the services offered. This can allow relatives to spend more time with their loved one without being responsible for every aspect of daily support.

The goal is not to eliminate family involvement, but to find a sustainable balance between caregiving and maintaining meaningful relationships.

Plan for Changing Needs

Consider what would happen if a parent became incontinent, had difficulty walking or needed more help with personal care.

Would the home remain accessible and safe? Could the family arrange additional support? Would the cost be manageable?

Some retirement homes offer different levels of services or care, but not all can accommodate every change in health. Ask about the residence’s ability to respond to evolving needs before making a decision.

Comparison Table: Multigenerational Home vs. Retirement Home

What Questions Should You Ask Before Making a Decision?

When deciding what to do for a parent whose independence is changing, an open and honest discussion involving the older adult and family members is essential.

What Are the Parent’s Needs and Preferences?

The older adult should remain at the centre of the decision. Would they prefer the privacy of an apartment in a retirement home or the atmosphere of a family home filled with grandchildren? How independent are they, and what kind of support would make them feel safe?

Choosing between a retirement home and living with family should respect the parent’s preferences while ensuring that their everyday needs can be met.

Does the Family Have the Resources to Provide Support?

Before inviting an older adult to move in, family members should realistically assess their time, energy and capacity to help.

Do they have the physical ability, patience and availability to provide the support their parent may need while maintaining their own health, relationships and responsibilities to their children?

It is also important to identify other available resources, including home care services, community programs and support for family caregivers.

What Is the Real Cost in the Short and Long Term?

Look beyond the initial price. Budget for unexpected expenses such as home repairs, accessibility renovations and specialized equipment.

Compare these costs with the monthly fees of a retirement home, taking into account which services are included and which may cost extra. A clear financial comparison can help prevent unexpected expenses from putting pressure on the family.

Can the Arrangement Be Reassessed If Circumstances Change?

No housing decision needs to be permanent. A multigenerational arrangement that works today may no longer be appropriate if a parent’s health or independence changes.

For example, if your parent begins having difficulty with basic personal hygiene, our guide on what to do when an older adult stops showering may help you identify issues to discuss with a healthcare professional.

Families should agree in advance to revisit the arrangement if the parent needs more assistance, the caregiver becomes overwhelmed or the home can no longer meet their needs safely.

What Can You Do When Your Parent’s Needs Become Too Complex?

Many families eventually realize that their home can no longer provide the level of support their parent needs. Recognizing this does not mean that the family has failed. It is a normal part of supporting an older adult whose independence is changing.

Reassess Care Needs and Available Support Services

The first step is to contact your local CLSC or a social worker to request an assessment of your parent’s needs and level of independence.

They may be able to explain which home support services are available, such as meal delivery or assistance with bathing. Depending on the situation, these services may help an older adult continue living at home safely for longer.

Families should also discuss their concerns with the parent’s healthcare team and ask which services or living arrangements may be appropriate.

Consider Another Living Arrangement If Necessary

When safety becomes difficult to maintain or family caregivers are approaching burnout, it may be time to explore retirement homes or other accommodation options for older adults.

Admission criteria, waiting lists, available services and costs vary between public and private settings. The process may involve assessments and discussions with healthcare professionals or social workers to determine which options are suitable.

Taking time to understand the available choices can help families find a setting that better matches their parent’s needs.

See a Change in Living Arrangements as an Adjustment, Not a Failure

If your parent is losing independence, it is natural to feel uncertain or guilty about considering a retirement home. However, arranging for professionals to provide daily support is not the same as abandoning a loved one.

It can be a way to ensure that the parent receives appropriate assistance while allowing family members to focus on their relationship and spend quality time together.

The most important consideration is whether the chosen arrangement supports the older adult’s safety, dignity, preferences and quality of life.

Choosing the Right Housing Option for Your Family

Multigenerational housing is attracting interest because it can offer a way to share housing expenses and maintain close family connections. However, a multigenerational home and a retirement home meet different needs.

Living together requires careful planning, potentially costly renovations and a realistic commitment of time from family members. A retirement home may provide accommodation, services and additional support, depending on the residence and the older adult’s needs.

There is no single solution that works for every family. The best decision is one that respects the older adult’s independence and preferences while taking into account what the family can realistically provide.

Take time to discuss the options, compare total costs and consider how your parent’s needs may change in the coming years.

If you determine that a different living environment may better support your loved one, you can contact Bonjour Résidences at 1 (844) 918-1020 or submit an online accommodation request online to discuss available senior living options.