The Abbeyfield Lifestyle

Abbeyfield’s core mandate is to provide affordable accommodation and companionship for seniors that are aging alone within their own local community.

These are often converted or purpose-built homes that house 10-15 residents with a house manager. Each resident has a private bed-sitting room with ensuite bath where they can seek privacy and solitude.

A small staff serves two meals a day, with a flexible, self-serve breakfast. Meals and social activities take part in a shared dining and sitting area.

Each house is a non-profit, registered charity. House ownership and support are undertaken by Board of Directors and community volunteers. Abbeyfield is non-denominational and inclusive.

Companionship For Seniors
Abbeyfield Durham
Abbeyfield Caledon
Abbeyfield Caledon

History of Abbeyfield Houses

The first Abbeyfield House was founded in England in 1956 by retired British Major Richard Carr-Gomm, in response to the profound human loneliness he saw. Since then hundreds of Abbeyfield Houses have formed around the world.

Abbeyfield Houses Society of Canada was established in 1985 with the first home in British Columbia. There are currently 19 Abbeyfield Houses across in Canada and several in the state of development.

History of Abbeyfield House Society of Prince Edward County

In 2024 Solo Seniors Prince Edward County, the umbrella organization, received a Municipal Community Grant through the PEC Community Foundation. Our mandate was to explore both the social and housing needs of seniors living alone in the County.

The Community Foundation Vital Signs Report showed that over 3,000 individuals live alone in the County (2016), with over half being widowed. Many are susceptible to poverty, social isolation and difficulty maintaining their independence.

The cost of living and the social barriers to inclusion for seniors living alone, lead to vulnerability, isolation and the need for connection. In our mind, the Abbeyfield model addressed each of those needs.

We completed of an Abbeyfield Community Interest Survey in December 2024. In June 2025, we received our initial provisional membership in Abbeyfield Canada that allowed us begin our quest to develop an Abbeyfield Home in Prince Edward County.

Abbeyfield Ottawa
Abbeyfield Ottawa

Get Involved

We are seeking members for our volunteer Board of Directors that will facilitate incorporation and seek charitable status.

For more information Click Here