Planning for your senior years: how to design a future that feels like you

Life has a way of surprising us with new chapters—some anticipated, others unexpected. One of the most empowering choices you can make is to thoughtfully plan your senior years. This isn’t simply about preparing for “what’s next,” but about creating a vision for the life you want to live: enriched, independent, and full of expression. At The Edward, we believe planning should be less about limits and more about possibilities.

Whether you’re envisioning new travels, a vibrant cultural life, or simply more time for self-care, intentional planning ensures that your senior years are not just comfortable, but deeply fulfilling.

Key takeaways from this guide

1. Begin with your vision – Define what you want your senior years to look and feel like.

2. Build a secure financial foundation – Align your finances with the lifestyle you envision.

3. Prioritize health and wellness – Focus on physical activity, preventive care, and emotional well-being.

4. Enrich your cultural and social life – Stay engaged through arts, learning, and community connections.

5. Choose the right living environment – Select a setting that supports both independence and enrichment.

6. Stay purposeful – Embrace lifelong learning, volunteering, and creative pursuits.

7. Plan your legacy – Preserve traditions, values, and contributions for future generations.

Step 1: Redefine what senior living means to you

Planning for your senior years begins with reframing what “senior living” looks like. Today’s generation of older adults is more active, discerning, and adventurous than ever. This stage of life is less about slowing down and more about leaning into passions, relationships, and wellness.

Ask yourself:

• What activities bring me joy and meaning?

• How do I want to spend my days—quietly, socially, or a mix of both?

• What role does culture, art, or lifelong learning play in my life?

At The Edward, residents often pursue everything from language classes to yoga classes to resident-led gardening initiatives. These choices reflect not a retreat from life, but an expansion of it.

Step 2: Take stock of your financial picture

Financial planning is a cornerstone of designing your senior years. While it can feel daunting, thinking about your resources in advance allows you to make confident choices later.

Consider:

• Reviewing your retirement income streams (pensions, RRSPs, savings).

• Exploring lifestyle costs such as travel, dining, and hobbies.

• Factoring in the costs of senior living communities or long-term care.

With life expectancies rising—today’s retirees may plan for nearly a decade more than previous generations—thoughtful financial planning becomes essential, balancing both wealth and well-being over a longer horizon. You’ll find helpful strategies for managing this in Canada Life’s guide to planning for a long, healthy retirement.

Step 3: Prioritize health and wellness

Well-being is the foundation of an enriching senior life. Planning for physical, emotional, and mental health not only enhances quality of life but also supports independence.

Key practices include:

• Scheduling annual medical check-ups and preventative screenings.

• Staying active through walking clubs, yoga, or fitness programs.

• Nourishing your body with balanced meals—something The Edward’s chef-led dining makes both delicious and convenient.

• Tending to emotional health through mindfulness, social connection, or creative pursuits.

At The Edward, wellness transcends a morning routine; it embodies a lifestyle. From morning yoga sessions to leisurely walks and mindfulness practices, our holistic approach nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Explore how our wellness offerings can elevate your well-being to support a balanced and active lifestyle.

For more inspiration, this article from the Mayo Clinic highlights practical ways to age well and maintain vitality. 

Step 4: Design your social and cultural life

A well-planned senior life isn’t just about logistics—it’s about experiences. Enrichment, friendships, and culture form the heart of a fulfilling lifestyle.

In Calgary, opportunities abound:

• Attend performances at the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra or Theatre Calgary.

• Explore art at the Glenbow Museum.

• Join book clubs or interest groups, many of which meet at local cafés.

At The Edward, residents often start their own clubs for bridge or mahjong. This spirit of community ensures that your senior years are filled with laughter, camaraderie, and learning.

Strong social connections are more than a source of joy—they’re a cornerstone of health and longevity. Studies show that maintaining close relationships can reduce risks of heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline. Learn more about the profound benefits of staying connected in this Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health article.

Step 5: Consider where and how you want to live

Your environment plays a profound role in shaping your daily life. Do you prefer to remain at home, or does a vibrant community setting resonate more?

When exploring senior living options, look for:

• Flexibility in lifestyle choices (meals, activities, events).

• A welcoming community with shared interests.

• Proximity to cultural venues, nature, or family.

• Services that support both independence and convenience.

For those considering a residence, this helpful guide by CARP outlines what to look for in a senior living community. At The Edward, the focus is on offering not just a home, but an enriching, artful life in the heart of Calgary.

Step 6: Embrace lifelong learning and purpose

A vibrant senior life is enriched by curiosity and contribution. Many seniors find renewed purpose in volunteering, mentoring, or learning new skills.

Ideas to explore:

• Enrolling in continuing education courses at the University of Calgary’s Continuing Education program.

• Volunteering with local organizations such as the Calgary Seniors’ Resource Society.

• Pursuing new creative outlets—painting, photography, or even writing your memoir.

Engaging in volunteer opportunities not only enriches your sense of purpose but also contributes to your physical and emotional well-being. The Edward provides residents with meaningful opportunities to give back, whether it’s mentoring others, leading language classes, or working in the garden.

Step 7: Create a legacy plan

Finally, planning for your senior years includes considering your legacy. This isn’t just about estate planning, though that’s important—it’s also about how you wish to be remembered and the values you want to pass on.

Reflections to guide you:

• What family traditions or stories would you like to preserve?

• How can you share your skills and wisdom with younger generations?

• Do you want to support a cause or institution that matters deeply to you?

Many residents at The Edward find meaning in contributing to charitable causes or mentoring younger artists and professionals, weaving their legacy into the cultural fabric of Calgary.

Bringing it all together

Planning for your senior years is not a checklist—it’s a canvas. Each thoughtful step helps you design a future that reflects who you are and what you value most.

At The Edward, we’ve seen how intentional planning empowers seniors to live richly and fully, whether that means joining a walking club, attending an art lecture, or enjoying evenings of music and conversation with friends.

Your senior years are not a winding down, but a coming alive. The question isn’t “what will I give up?” but “what will I lean into?” With foresight, community, and inspiration, the years ahead can be your most vibrant chapter yet.

Continue your journey here

Looking to take the next step or simply stay connected? Here are a few helpful links:

• Contact us – We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.

• Book a tour – Come experience our community in person.

• Check out events at The Edward - From seasonal markets to art showings, there’s always something inspiring happening here.

• Visit our YouTube channel – See daily life, special moments, expert interviews and resident stories in action.

About The Edward:

Nestled in the heart of Calgary, The Edward is a luxury retirement living community where comfort, independence, and cultural enrichment come together in perfect harmony. Here, every day is thoughtfully designed to support a personalized lifestyle—one that celebrates your passions, priorities, and sense of self. With curated five-star dining, wellness-focused amenities, concierge and chauffeur services, vibrant social connections, and more, The Edward provides more than just retirement living—it offers a meaningful way of life. Experience a refined, worry-free lifestyle where your next chapter unfolds with grace, warmth, and endless possibility. Managed by Optima Living, a trusted operator with over 15 years of experience in Western Canada, The Edward is built on a legacy of warmth, respect, and purposeful living.