I recently read an article about a survey conducted by the National Institute on Ageing at Toronto's Ryerson University saying that COVID-19 has more people thinking about ageing in place. The survey of 1,517 Canadians suggests more seniors want to continue living at home as they age, rather than move to a retirement home or long-term care facility. Sixty per cent of respondents said the pandemic had changed their opinions on whether they would arrange for themselves or an older loved one to live in a retirement home. Seventy per cent of respondents aged 65 and older said they would try to live safely and independently in their own home as long as possible. Do you feel the same about your own ageing process? The good news is, you can stay in your present home as long as you want if you design it to meet your future lifestyle needs. Here are some things to consider.

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Dave Wilkes is President and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), the voice of the home building, land development and professional renovation industry in the GTA. For the latest industry news and new home data, follow BILD on Twitter, @bildgta, or visit the website.

As a cooperative with 1,000 stores worldwide, we not only have enormous buying power, but we have partners in all of the major brands, mills and manufacturers.

With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.

IKO has grown from humble beginnings to a global leader in the roofing products industry, with more than 3,000 employees worldwide, and state-of-the-art manufacturing plants.

FLEURCO specializes in holistic designs and finishes that easily adapt to both traditional and contemporary bathroom décors.

For over 50 years, Faema Canada has introduced the art of traditional Italian Espresso and Cappuccino to Canadians. We carry a variety of premium brands that can be tested at any one of our retail stores. Our selection of machines is only complemented by our assortment of fine espresso blends imported from Italy. Our wide selection of beans can also be brewed and sampled at all of our locations.

Deckorators Voyage decking joins the patented Eovations technology line. Vertical grain variegation gives Voyage — an ultra-low maintenance composite — the trend-forward appearance of the highest-quality wood.

At JELD-WEN, we craft custom windows and doors from the highest quality materials, designed to inspire homeowners and add beauty to the world.

Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.

At Riobel we design, create and assemble faucets, shower systems and accessories in our Canadian facility located in St-Jérôme, a suburb of Montréal. Our modern and fashionable products are designed to fit all kitchens or bathrooms. They are easy to install, while mechanical parts are accessible from above the counter to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. Riobel: a benchmark of excellence since 1995!

As the world’s leader in skylights, Sun Tunnels and roof windows, VELUX is one of the strongest international brands in the building materials sector.

Since 1873, Kohler Co. has been improving the level of gracious living by providing exceptional products and services for our customers’ homes and their lifestyles.

Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.

From a modest machine shop in Baltimore to the surface of the moon, we’ve proudly provided innovative solutions for over a century. Discover the pioneering history of BLACK+DECKER.

Canadian Appliance Source has become the fastest growing provider of Major Home Appliances in Canada for over 10 years, we have grown to include over 13 locations across Ontario & Quebec.

Leak, Clogged Drain, Complex Plumbing Repair? We offer 24 Hour 7 Day Emergency Plumbing Service.

Since 1989 Selba Kitchens and Baths has become a leader in the production of fine quality cabinetry in Toronto and surrounding areas.

Sharp Electronics of Canada Ltd. is dedicated to improving the lives of consumers through the use of advanced technology. With a commitment to innovation, quality, value and design, Sharp consumer electronics and appliances enhance enjoyment, while adding to comfort.

Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.

By becoming the standard bearer in the basement renovation industry, we can promote quality materials, professional trades, honest pricing, and better communication standards to create customer advocates and inspire our competitors.

Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.

ROCKWOOL insulation is the sustainable way to make an impact on the challenges of climate change, urbanisation, improving people’s health and quality of life, and resource scarcity.

ROBINSON, formerly known as Sescolite Lighting, is a Canadian owned retailer of lighting and plumbing.

All-electric fireplace showroom and design centre with the largest selection in Toronto and York Region. Combining specialized expertise with over 20 years' interior design experience. On-wall, in-wall, fireboxes, retrofit inserts, mantels, custom cabinetry, stone and brick veneers. Residential and commercial. Trade and volume inquiries always welcome.

IMPROVE is totally unique to Canada. Based on the international success of similar concepts throughout the world, IMPROVE understands how to make home improvement much easier and more pleasurable for consumers and trades to shop all under one roof.

Custom fabrication, marble granite quartz and a boutique showroom that caters to designers, architects, contractors and more! Everyone is welcome!

Shelter Furniture recognizes your individual style and are sensitive to your space and your vision for your home. With our in store design services, we help you create unique space that helps bring your home to life.

SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.

Crystal chandeliers, sconces, mirrors, accent furniture and accessories. Visit our 4,000 sq.ft showroom where we are proud to offer the most knowledgeable and courteous staff in the business. Crystal Design and Decor offers quality and value at reasonable prices while providing individualized attention and customer service. Customization also available to suit requirements and design preference.

Atlantis Bath Centre is committed to providing clients with exceptional service and quality plumbing products that reflect their personality and lifestyle. Channeling the latest design trends and the desires of the client, Atlantis is the one-stop-shop for every kitchen and bathroom project. Visit one of our locations and experience the Atlantis difference.