Your guide to senior living care options in Ontario
Are you looking for more clarity around the care choices available for seniors today? The good news is there are many assisted living alternatives, and you’ll discover them all in our guide to senior living care options in Ontario.
Understanding private and public senior care options
In this comprehensive assisted living guide, you’ll discover:
- The distinctions between private-pay retirement residences and government-subsidized long-term care homes — also known as nursing homes — in Ontario
- Information about funding and regulation. For example, unfunded private retirement residences must meet the same regulations as publicly funded facilities
- The range of senior care types, from Independent Living to Assisted Living to Memory Care (not all residences provide a full spectrum of care under one roof like Amica does)
- Eight signs you or your loved one may benefit from assisted living support, such as help with bathing, dressing or taking medications
- The reasons why Memory Care offers extra peace of mind for seniors with dementia, thanks to additional safety features, specially trained staff and engaging programs
- The best options if you or a loved one is living with complex medical conditions, as well as those who require palliative care and end-of-life care
Comparing home care and senior living
When a parent’s assistance needs outstrip a family’s ability to provide care, it’s time to consider support options. Read our primer on Ontario senior living care choices to learn:
- Considerations when hiring a senior caregiver, such as the need for timely assistance for or access to engaging social activities with peers
- How to assess care and safety needs in relation to in-home services available in your area
- Key questions to ask. Is home care enriching your life or your parent’s, or helping everyone get by? Would you or your loved one prefer socializing and enjoying premium dining, amenities and 24/7 wellness care at a senior living residence?
Assessing care services and amenities
Download our handbook on Ontario senior living care options by filling in the form before you begin researching long-term care homes and private retirement residences near you. It will help you:
- Ask the right questions about care and equipment at different facilities. For example, do they have hydraulic lifts for those with mobility challenges?
- Research care costs. Some retirement homes charge a blanket fee. You can access Amica’s care services, including bathing assistance, mobility support or B12 injections, a la carte or as part of a service bundle.
- Consider access to healthcare providers. Only some residences offer 24/7 nursing care, for instance. Depending on the location, some retirement homes also arrange for health and wellness providers to visit, which may be more convenient for you or your loved one than going out.
- Ask about respite care for you or your loved one to recover from surgery, provide a break for caregivers or to simply try out a residence for a few weeks.
- Think big picture: long term, how do in-home services or publicly funded homes compare with a senior living lifestyle that includes community, personalized care, engaging activities and premium amenities?
This guide will equip you to make that decision, and confidently choose the best care choice for you and your family.