Creating new possibilities for aging in place

A first-of-its-kind centre advancing new models of social connection and accessible care for older adults living in the community.

A group of three older women smiling at the camera and wrapping their arms around each other
An older woman interacting with a doctor in a video call while holding a medication

Our Mission

NORC Innovation Centre at University Health Network (UHN), Canada’s largest research hospital, has a bold mission to design the future of aging in place.

Canada’s urban areas are home to a large number of older adults, and more are choosing to live in apartment and condo buildings than ever before.

With this shift comes the opportunity to rethink models of care to align with the natural density in these buildings, and enhance support for older adults to stay active, healthy and engaged.

The first-of-its-kind centre merges integrated care delivery with a community development approach to provide Canadians with new options for aging in place with dignity and choice.

Our Approach

Community-Led
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Community-Led

Our Model is rooted in mobilizing and empowering older adults, developing trusting relationships, and building on intergenerational strengths to create new solutions.

Integrated Health
and Social Care
Data-driven
Partnership-Based
Policy and Research

The Inaugural NORC Ambassador Program

Want to boost the community where you live?

We work alongside motivated residents to understand what your community might want and need to thrive, and support you in building a vibrant community that supports healthy aging. The Ambassador Program is the foundation of the work we do.

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Insights

We will regularly release research, tools and insight to shape the future of aging in place.

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Publication

It’s Time to Unleash the Power of Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs)

Recommendations developed by the National Institute on Ageing and NORC Innovation Centre for policymakers across Canada.

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Publication

NORC Innovation Centre Policy Recommendations for 2023 City of Toronto Mayoral Candidates

We urge City of Toronto mayoral candidates to prioritize policies that help older adults age in place.

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Publication

Mobile On-Site COVID-19 Vaccination of Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities

Exploring targeting NORCs as an approach to protecting those at highest risk of COVID-19 hospitalization.

Keep updated with everything happening at the centre!

Are you interested in new possibilities for aging in place? Join our mailing list and keep up to date with what we’re learning and developing.

NORC Innovation Centre is Canada’s first centre dedicated to advancing a 21st century model of integrated health and social care in naturally-occurring retirement communities (NORC). The Centre is based out of the University Health Network (UHN) in Toronto, Canada.

Our Location

489 College Street
Suite 400
Toronto, Ontario
M6G 1A5

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