Lists of reports on this page:
Find care details, insights, and insider perspectives gained from 20+ years of helping seniors and families.
What to know about this topic:
- Caregiver stress relief and other benefits
- In-home respite care
- Emergency respite care
- Respite care in provinces across Canada
- Costs of respite care in a retirement home
- Paying for respite care
- A closer look at short-term retirement home stays
- Sources and further reading
When families or seniors require respite care, retirement homes and home care services are there to help. Temporary living arrangements in a care home — complete with care services and an environment staffed with nursing and medical staff — offers caregivers a break. A brief period of rest offers relief to caregivers who may be only seeking a break or getting out of town for a short period of time. Short term stays are a valuable service offered by retirement residences; stays can range from a 24-hour short stay to a term of several months in a care home. Home care services can also be used to allow caregivers some time away.
IN-DEPTH REPORTSRetirement homes with respite care stays
FEATURED
Forestview Retirement Residence
537 Finch Avenue West, Toronto,
Ontario, M2R 0A8
Forestview Retirement Residence offers elegant, comfortable senior living in Downsview, Willowdale, and North York, with personalized care, flexible services, vibrant amenities, and a warm, connected community.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
FEATURED
Governors Walk Retirement Residence - Metta Lifestyles
150 Stanley Avenue, Ottawa,
Ontario, K1M 2J7
A former monastery and friary, Governors Walk is designed to pay respect to the past while featuring a modern touch. Governors Walk is steps away from the picturesque Rideau River and Stanley park.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
The Briton House
720 Mt. Pleasant Road, Toronto,
Ontario, M4S 2N7
Family-owned and operated, the Briton House is dedicated to the highest standard service for 50 years. Offering a full continuum of care, rich amenities and suites, home-cooked meals, and a 15,000 sq. ft. indoor garden.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Amica Dundas
50 Hatt Street, Dundas,
Ontario, L9H 0A1
This luxurious retirement home in Dundas, a short drive from Hamilton and the Niagara region, offers active living for seniors, with a variety of amenities including fine dining.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Stonemont On The Park
1068 Cummings Ave, Ottawa,
Ontario, K1J 0E2
Nestled steps from the park, Stonemont On The Park offers elegant studio-to-two-bed suites, chef-prepared dining, premium hospitality, and personalized independent to assisted living in a vibrant Ottawa community.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
FEATURED
Queenston Place Residence
6440 Valley Way, Niagara Falls,
Ontario, L2E 7E3
This Niagara Falls retirement home features local activities and scenery in a luxury environment offering a comfortable lifestyle, care and peace of mind.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
FEATURED
Greenview Seniors Residence - Metta Lifestyles
880 Lawrence Ave E, North York,
Ontario, M3C1P6
At Greenview Residence, we offer a complete range of care services in a welcoming environment. Whether it's our compassionate staff, fresh homemade meals, or exciting and engaging activities, you will truly feel at home.
Lifestyle Options: Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Queens Estate Retirement Residence - Metta Lifestyles
265 Queens Drive, Toronto,
Ontario, M6L 3C6
At Queens Estate, we offer a complete range of care services in a welcoming environment. Whether it's our compassionate staff, fresh homemade meals, or exciting and engaging activities, you will truly feel at home.
Lifestyle Options: Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Arabella Retirement Living
24 Dundas St West, Belleville,
Ontario, K8P 0H1
Arabella Retirement Living is a breath of fresh air for seniors looking for a vibrant and independent way of life. Our friendly staff will ensure your days are filled with amazing meals, fun activities, and so much more.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
FEATURED
McCowan Retirement Residence - Metta Lifestyles
2881 Eglinton Avenue East, Scarborough,
Ontario, M1J 0A2
McCowan Retirement Residence is a vibrant and family oriented retirement home located in Scarborough. With team members who have been here since we opened in 2004, you can expect a warm welcome and a feeling of home.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Amica Unionville
34 Main Street, Unionville,
Ontario, L3R 4Z8
Located on the charming Main Street of historic Unionville, Amica Unionville blends heritage-village ambiance with upscale senior living, providing a backdrop for connection, activity, peace of mind, and relaxation.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
FEATURED
Amica London
517 Fanshawe Park Road West, London,
Ontario, N6G 0C1
This uniquely luxurious London, Ontario retirement home offers elegant dining, indoor fitness facilities, scenic walking trails and many other features for active seniors
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Thornebridge Gardens - Verve Senior Living
649 8th Avenue, New Westminster,
British Columbia, V3M 2R2
Thornebridge Gardens is one of New Westminster’s finest retirement residences, providing luxurious, worry-free surroundings with life enriching services that inspire healthy senior living. Many options are available!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Port Credit Residences - Verve Senior Living
33 Hurontario Street, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5G 3G8
Port Credit Residence offers a resort-inspired lifestyle with an oversized pool, wellness centre, physiotherapy, movie theatre, library, spa/salon, and more. Offering Independent & Independent Supportive Living.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
The Roxborough Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
1 Roxborough Road, Newmarket,
Ontario, L3Y 2P8
The Roxborough Retirement Residence is both elegant and cozy with a dedicated and caring team that go above and beyond for your well-being and happiness. We offer Independent living and Independent Supportive Living.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
OPAL Vancouver
438 West King Edward Ave, Vancouver,
British Columbia, V5Y 05M
OPAL Vancouver offers luxurious senior living with 30,000+ sq. ft. of amenities and a full continuum of care, creating a vibrant, connected community designed for comfort, wellness, and aging in place.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Long-term care
Carp Commons Retirement Village - Verve Senior Living
458 Donald B. Munro Drive, Carp,
Ontario, K0A 1L0
One visit to Carp Commons Retirement Village and you’ll see the difference in terms of amenities, food, services, programs, and the little touches that make it feel like home.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Amica Taunton
85 Taunton Road East, Whitby,
Ontario, L1R 0S4
AMICA Taunton offers a full continuum of care from townhome condos to Memory Care. We have 24/7 nurses and a visiting doctor. Residents choose to dine between 7am-7pm and enjoy special menus created by our Red Seal Chef.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
White Cliffe Terrace - Verve Senior Living
1460 Highway #2, Courtice,
Ontario, L1E 3C4
Discover Independent, Assisted, and Independent Supportive Living at our award-winning Oshawa residence. Enjoy tailored care, spacious suites, nearby parks, shopping and peace of mind. Readers Choice Winner, 2016–2019.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Stouffville Creek Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
40 Freel Lane, Stouffville,
Ontario, L4A 0P5
Stouffville Creek offers cozy living with exceptional dining, tailored care, and nearby highways, shops, and trails. Choose Independent, Independent Supportive, or Assisted Living for a fulfilling retirement.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
The Village of Erin Meadows
2930 Erin Centre Boulevard, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5M 7M4
We feature a unique full continuum of care with a vibrant Main Street offering Independent Living, Retirement Apartments, Assisted & Memory Care suites . Our retirement community represents a diverse ethnic population.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Crown Ridge Retirement Residence
106 Crown Street, Trenton,
Ontario, K8V 6R3
Located on the east side of Trenton in a quiet neighbourhood. Enjoy beautiful suites of various sizes & layouts with advanced safety features. Elegant dining plus snacks & beverages included.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Scarborough Retirement Residence
148 Markham Road, Scarborough,
Ontario, M1M 2Z8
A family owned and managed residence that offers seniors the opportunity to maintain their independence. Enjoy healthy Chef-prepared meals, daily life enrichment programs. We also offer short-term trial or respite stays.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Hazelton Place Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
111 Avenue Road, Toronto,
Ontario, M5R 3J8
Luxury and quality fill every corner of Hazelton, from its elegant lobby to its inviting Bistro & Bar. With exceptional amenities and tailored services, Hazelton empowers you to define and enjoy your ideal lifestyle.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Sorrento Retirement Residence
10 Station Road, Bolton,
Ontario, L7E4L3
Welcome to Sorrento, a luxury take on retirement living in downtown Bolton. Inspired by the picturesque town of Sorrento, Italy, we bring the Italian zest for life to this unique community.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Delmanor Wynford
187 Wynford Drive, North York,
Ontario, M3C 0C7
A full service 5-star retirement community centrally located in Toronto - features extensive common areas, a rooftop putting green and a variety of other amenities catering to today's active seniors.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Evergreen Retirement Community - Verve Senior Living
820 Scollard Court, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5V 0A1
A stylish Mississauga retirement home offering Independent, Independent Supportive, and Assisted Living, tailored to seniors' lifestyles, featuring a hair salon, onsite bistro, and more.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Amica Little Lake
70 Lakeside Terrace, Barrie,
Ontario, L4M 0J2
Set on the shores of Little Lake in Barrie, Amica Little Lake offers beautiful views, a vibrant community, and a comfortable place to call home, with independent, assisted and memory care, dining, programs, and support.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Southbrook Retirement Residence
400 Ray Lawson Blvd., Brampton,
Ontario, L6Y 4G4
Southbrook is all about choices - We celebrate independence in senior living but, are always here to provide assistance when you need it. Southbrook - come be a part of our community, our family and meet new friends!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Delmanor West Village
15 Summerland Terrace, Etobicoke,
Ontario, M9A 0B5
Delmanor West Village is a retirement residence in Etobicoke, Toronto, offering independent living, assisted living, respite stays, renovated suites with full kitchens, an Aquafit pool, and chef-prepared dining.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Wintergreene Estates - Verve Senior Living
4950 Pasqua Street, Regina,
Saskatchewan, S4S 7L2
At Wintergreene, you'll discover a combination of independence, privacy, activities, health and wellness programs & friendly companionship to savour throughout your retirement.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Parkland Ancaster
558 Golf Links Rd., Hamilton,
Ontario, L9G 4W9
At Parkland Ancaster, we will offer a luxurious, vibrant, social lifestyle in a beautiful safe, premium home. Enjoy upscale amenities, creating a supportive space for you to thrive socially and lead fulfilling lives.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Delmanor Aurora
25 Butternut Ridge Trail, Aurora,
Ontario, L4G 3Z3
Delmanor Aurora provides a new twist on retirement living, in a five-star resort-style setting. Extensive amenities including saltwater pool, fitness centre, theatre, spa, market, ground floor patio and rooftop terrace.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Berwick House
4062 Shelbourne Street, Victoria,
British Columbia, V8N 3E6
Berwick House offers comfort, security and our usual high standard of affordable luxury. Steps away from a mall, cinema and other conveniences, you’ll find everything you need for an independent and active lifestyle.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Long-term care
Ashley Oaks Retirement Residence
200 Rivermont Road, Brampton,
Ontario, L6Y6L4
Ashley Oaks offers a vibrant and active lifestyle. Our new community has a touch of European charm with spacious suites, delicious cuisine, and a variety of amenities. It's not just a place to live but a place to thrive!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Delmanor Northtown
5351 Yonge Street, North York,
Ontario, M2N 7L5
Delmanor Northtown is a full-service boutique retirement community located in the heart of North York, catering to active and independent seniors.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Parkland Ajax
3 Rossland Road West, Ajax,
Ontario, L1Z 0V1
Parkland Ajax offers independent and supportive options! Beautifully designed spacious suites, exceptional on site amenities and professional staff on site 24/7, Parkland is where you can live your best life!
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Chartwell Erinview
2630 Fifth Line west, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5K 0A8
Located in the heart of Mississauga, Erinview offers an atmosphere of worry-free, comfortable living with personalized support in the presence of good friends.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Four Elms Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
1500 Steeles Avenue West, Thornhill,
Ontario, L4J 4H6
Four Elms is an elegant Retirement Residence offering the finest in Senior Living. Choose a suite style that is perfect for you and enjoy an active lifestyle, fine dining and the company of good friends.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Riverwalk Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
528 25 Ave SW, Calgary,
Alberta, V2S 0L5
Riverwalk Retirement Residence is centrally located in the Cliff Bungalow-Mission community of Calgary. We offer a continuum of care including Independent Living, Premium Assisted Living and Memory Care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Chartwell Dorchester Terrace Retirement Community
143 Byron Ave, Dorchester,
Ontario, N0L 1G5
Dorchester Terrace offers area seniors a variety of suite choices, wellness support services, medication administration, housekeeping services, physiotherapy and daily dining in an open restaurant-style dining room.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Delmanor Prince Edward
4180 Dundas Street West, Etobicoke,
Ontario, M8X 1X8
Situated in a treed ravine setting overlooking the Humber River, Delmanor Prince Edward provides vistas that vary from the serenity of the adjacent valley to the resplendence of the Toronto downtown skyline!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
VIVA Thornhill Woods
9700 Bathurst Street, Vaughan,
Ontario, L6A 4V2
Vaughan's premier all-inclusive rental retirement community! Enjoy bright, spacious suites, modern amenities, delicious dining, and a Team devoted to Making Today Great! for you and your family! Book your tour today!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Chartwell Westhill Retirement Community
25 Westhill Drive, Waterloo,
Ontario, N2T 0B6
The Westhill is an inviting atmosphere of new friends and great times, with personalized support services for better living. The Westhill is conveniently located in Waterloo, near The Boardwalk shopping area.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Delmanor Elgin Mills
80 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill,
Ontario, L4C 0L3
Award Winning Delmanor Elgin Mills, has proudly served the Richmond Hill community since 2002, offering Independent, Assisted Living, and Memory Care options, you can choose from a variety of well-appointed sized suites.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Parkland on the Glen
1665 The Collegeway, Mississauga,
Ontario, L5L 0A9
Parkland is located at Mississauga and The Collegeway next to the Glenerin Inn. We are surrounded by beautiful green space. For the past 6 years we've been awarded one of the top 3 Retirement Communities in Mississauga.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living
Chartwell Longworth Retirement Residence
600 Longworth Road, London,
Ontario, N6K 4X9
Voted London's Best Retirement Residence seven years running! We promote our passion for seniors living well by offering choices for an active, wellness focused lifestyle with the security of knowing help is at hand.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Berwick Royal Oak
4680 Elk Lake Drive, Victoria,
British Columbia, V8Z 0B4
Luxurious, Resort-Style Retirement Living where you can age in place; You’re Home at Last at Berwick Royal Oak on Vancouver Island in beautiful Victoria, BC.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Long-term care
The Village of Tansley Woods
4100 Upper Middle Road, Burlington,
Ontario, L7W 4W8
At The Village of Tansley Woods, we offer the full continuum of care - Independent Living Suites, Retirement Apartments, Full Service Retirement Suites, Assisted Care, Memory Care and Long Term Care all in one village.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
The Village at University Gates
250 Laurelwood Drive, Waterloo,
Ontario, N2J 0E2
Now welcoming our Retirement Home Residents to the Village. We offer Waterloo a range of services for today's Senior including Retirement Apartments, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Long Term Care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Parkland on Eglinton West
4650 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke,
Ontario, M9A 0E3
Parkland on Eglinton West offers Lifestyle Apartments, All-Inclusive Lifestyle and Supportive Lifestyle options for seniors. Parkland makes it easy for you to do more of what you love!
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Richmond Hill Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
70 Bernard Avenue, Richmond Hill,
Ontario, L4C 0W7
Richmond Hill Retirement Residence is full service including meals, housekeeping, independent and independent supportive living. Our focus is on maintaining good health, great food, new friends & lots of laughter!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Chartwell Richmond Woods Retirement Community
200 North Centre Road, London,
Ontario, N5X 0B1
A desirable retirement residence in London, Ontario, including 130 suites with extensive amenities designed to provide the ultimate in retirement living. Proud winners of the "Best of London in Retirement Living 2020!"
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
The Village of Glendale Crossing
3030 Singleton Avenue, London,
Ontario, N6L 0B6
A true retirement hub featuring independent Living Apartments with full kitchens, Retirement Apartments, Full Service Retirement suites with walk out patios, Assisted Care, Memory Care and LTC.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
The Village of Taunton Mills
3790 Brock Street North, Whitby,
Ontario, L1R 0H2
The Village of Taunton Mills in Whitby presents several levels of service from seniors' apartments with full kitchens, retirement apartments with meals and services to memory care, assisted living and long-term care.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Delmanor Glen Abbey
1459 Nottinghill Gate, Oakville,
Ontario, L6M 4W1
Delmanor Glen Abbey celebrates 20 years! Country club style, surrounded by nature, birds and bees. Minutes from downtown Oakville, hospitals and senior’s centres. Truly an inspired retirement living experience.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Amica Stoney Creek
135 King St. E, Stoney Creek,
Ontario, L8G 0B2
Amica Stoney Creek celebrates its rich heritage on the site of Stoney Creek Dairy, a local treasure from 1929 to 2012. Stroll to shops, pubs, or Olde Town Stoney Creek, or take a trip to nearby Hamilton or Niagara.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Chateau Glengarry Retirement
105 St. Paul Street, Alexandria,
Ontario, K0C 1A0
Located between Ottawa & Montreal, our bilingual staff cater to seniors who are independent, need assistance or have early memory loss. Enjoy home-cooked food, fitness & daily activities. Respite stays are welcome.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Granville Gardens - Verve Senior Living
1550 West 49th Avenue,, Vancouver,
British Columbia, V6M 0B3
Located in Vancouver’s Kerrisdale neighbourhood, Granville Gardens offers residents the opportunity to stay active and live in a well-appointed urban community, surrounded by shopping centres, parks, community centres.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Amica Pickering
1450 Pickering Parkway, Pickering,
Ontario, L1V 0G2
Amica Pickering offers contemporary senior living in a vibrant lakeside community. Thoughtfully designed and welcoming, it supports your pace of life while offering the assurance of care when you need it.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
The Village of Humber Heights
2245 Lawrence Avenue West, Etobicoke,
Ontario, M9P 3W3
The Village of Humber Heights is a retirement community that offers various lifestyle options and levels of services ranging from independent living with meals, to assisted living, memory care, and long-term care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
The Village of Riverside Glen
60 Woodlawn Road East, Guelph,
Ontario, N1H 8M8
This elegant Guelph retirement home offers a range of care including assisted living and long term care, serviced by a friendly, caring staff.
Lifestyle Options: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Living Water Retirement Residence
19 Keith Avenue, Collingwood,
Ontario, L9Y 5B5
A Resort Style Community Served by a Team With Loving Hearts. We commit to providing an exceptional, caring experience for all residents with a culture that is people-centred, actionable love, compassion, and humility.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
The Shores of Port Credit - Verve Senior Living
280 Lakeshore Rd. W., Mississauga,
Ontario, L5H 0A5
The Shores is designed for vibrant living with the highest quality of personal care. Amenities include pool, fitness & exercise club, restaurant, bistro & cafe, a golf simulator lounge & wine cellar.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
The Village of Winston Park
695 Block Line Road, Kitchener,
Ontario, N2E 3K1
This elegant retirement residence in Kitchener-Waterloo offers a continuum of care from independent living apartments to assisted living, memory care and long-term care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Holland Gardens - Verve Senior Living
552 Holland St W, Bradford,
Ontario, L3Z 4H3
Located in the heart of Bradford, Holland Gardens offers a luxurious resort lifestyle where you can age gracefully with Independent Living, Independent Supportive Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Canterbury Place Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
1 Canterbury Place, North York,
Ontario, M2N 0G7
Canterbury Place offers Independent & Independent Supportive Living and suite styles in an elegant condo-like building for active adults. Unique healthcare programs available for our residents including palliative care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
Grandview Retirement Living
83 Centennial Parkway South, Stoney Creek,
Ontario, L8G 0B7
In the heart of downtown Stoney Creek, Grandview Retirement Living offers a variety of suites, delicious dining and unsurpassed amenities. Inclusive, customized independent and assisted living service packages available.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Chartwell Riverstone Retirement Community
1951 Shore Rd., London,
Ontario, N6K 0K5
Riverstone supports an independent retirement lifestyle in a brand-new community built for you. Choose from retiree apartments, one-floor villa townhomes and retirement suites coming Fall 2023!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living
IN-DEPTH REPORTSHome care companies
Nurse For Care
2390 Eglinton Avene East, Suite #224, Toronto,
Ontario, M1K 2P5
We offer Caregiver, PSW & RPN services in a Customized, Affordable way to all ages & needs in GTA, Hamilton, Durham, Sudbury or anywhere in Ontario at Home, Hospital, Rehab, Retirement home, & Long-term care facilities.
Lifestyle Options: Respite care, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care, Home Care
In-Home Assisted Living Inc.
2 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto,
Ontario, M4V 3A1
In-Home Assisted Living offers caregivers & nurses to seniors & others with medical challenges to remain in their home with safety & comfort. Services across the entire GTA. Also ask about our hospital bedside support.
Lifestyle Options: Respite care, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care, Home Care
Caregiver stress relief and other benefits
Giving care to an elderly loved one can be very demanding. It's normal to feel like you need a break. Taking a break can help you become a better caregiver. There are other advantages also.
Professional caregivers you hire will also gain experience dealing with your loved one and be able to provide you helpful feedback about how they deal with the specific needs of your family member. You can learn things and share knowledge and understanding, so that all caregivers of your loved one can do the best possible job of providing care.
Caregiving comes with other costs that you may not be accounting for, and a respite stay can help relieve some of these costs. Some examples of costs you may be forgetting are as follows:
- Time off work. Many caregivers take time away from work in emergencies, or take time away from their business or other income opportunities, without accounting for that as a "cost of caregiving." Caregivers typically spend 40 hours of their own time per month – equivalent to a full work week. Respite care can be used tactically to help you take better care of your own business.
- Travel costs. A 2009 survey showed that caregivers traveled an average of 225 km per month when caring for an aging parent. Respite care in a care home or using home care services can help reduce caregivers' travel.
Get a broader understanding of how you're not alone in feeling caregiver fatigue.
In-home respite care
Temporary care for ailing seniors is a helpful service offered by home care companies. In Ontario and other provinces, home care services are available through government subsidised programs like the Local Health Integration Network. As with other respite care programs, there are guidelines as to who qualifies for short term help.
In-home respite care services can help extend a senior's life in his or her own home, and temporary watchful care may be just right for your loved one. Find home care services that may offer respite care for elderly people in their homes. This can be very helpful for family members who need some relief from caregiving or who could benefit from some targeted care or companionship, for seniors exhibiting sundowning or similar symptoms of dementia.
Home care assistance is government funded (with limits) in provinces across Canada. For example, Alberta Health Services offers full funding (for those who qualify, of course) to cover an in-home caregiver up to 4 hours per week, as respite support for those providing care to an ailing senior. If 4 hours per week is not enough, families can also seek the help of a professional home care services provider or find other options such as a short stay in a retirement home.
In the province of Ontario, contact your Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) and find out if you qualify for services in your home, and if so, what care you qualify for. You can also request short term relief lasting a day or less.
If you do not qualify for government assistance, paid home care services can also be hired as an ideal solution to get through the rough patch.
Emergency respite care
There are various kinds of emergencies that can arise that create the sudden need for help. In this case, home care services and/or retirement homes are ready to step in to help. These offer a professional alternative when you have exhausted other possibilities, including extended family, neighbors and other immediate help.
These emergencies can include:
- A personal emergency on the part of a caregiver, including sudden illness, an accident, etc.
- A sudden medical emergency on the part of a senior, including a stroke, a fall, or other setback.
We don't often plan for the worst, but as parents age, families can think ahead to potential situations that may arise. You can try out providers ahead of time so that you're ready when something does happen. It's also a good idea to ask neighbors and others to be aware of potential problems, and gently find out if they have any interest in helping out in your time of need.
Families of elderly people – especially those with dementia – are encouraged to keep a list of emergency contact information, list all medications (including names, dosages, frequency) and medical professionals. Keep this list in a handy place, and have ready access in as many places as you deem necessary.
Respite care in provinces across Canada
Access to this kind of care is often the result of a recommendation from government services. For caregivers who need a mental health break occasionally, learn all you can about local help available; you won't regret getting help. Across provinces, respite care is roughly similar but is generally handled by provincial government bodies.
In both British Columbia and Ontario, respite care is defined and handled differently from convalescent care. Respite care is focused on the caregivers' need for a break; convalesent care covers the need for patients' recovery outside of the health care system. For families of seniors with Alzheimer's Disease, occasional short term relief can be invaluable.
In the province of British Columbia, BC's Ministry of Health Services provides a range of health care services including caregiver relief. Respite care for caregivers is part of the suite of home and community care available. This may take the form of service in the client's home or short term admission to a residential care facility. There are also adult day programs available in some of BC's larger cities; these programs offer a social outing for seniors and also help alleviate caregiver stress by giving caregivers time off.
Read more about respite care in Vancouver.
In Alberta, the Business Plan for 2016-2017 by Alberta Health Services (AHS) includes a promise to focus on enhanced community-based options to help seniors remain independent, with access to home care services including respite support for caregivers. Alberta's Strategic Clinical network includes one focused on seniors' health, intent on finding "the most effective ways to meet the healthcare needs of Alberta’s seniors based on evidence and best practices within" the province and elsewhere around the world.
Respite care allows for three broad types of available services, provided by AHS:
- Companion care in the home, up to 4 hours per week, as a means of easing caregiver stress and responsibility
- Adult day programs, funded up to 2 days per week, 6 hours each day.
- Overnight stay or short term stay in senior care, with the length of stay determined by an Alberta Home Care Registered Nurse.
In Ontario, your local Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) will make recommendations for the type of care required. LHINs work closely with government-funded homes and community services, and provides access to those service providers.
Respite care stays provide caregivers with temporary relief from their caregiving responsibilities. The person entering the LTC home may also benefit from the programs and services offered by the home. The anticipated length of stay is a maximum of 60 days. Costs for this are similar to what families would pay for long term care; that is, you pay only room and board in the care home, and care services are covered by the government. There are strict guidelines covering this kind of admission. However, families may consider paying for their own respite stay in a retirement home in order to find out what local care homes have to offer. Read more about respite care in Toronto, Ottawa, or Hamilton. These cities' finest care facilities offer superior care like nothing else you can imagine.
Respite care for dementia sufferers is an increasingly common need for many families. Homes also offer respite care for people with physical challenges and many other special needs.
Read reviews of retirement homes near you to find your best options or confirm that you are making the right decision.
As noted above, convalescent care is defined differently by the care industry in select places across the country, as care for those who are recovering from surgery or other health care. This is also a valuable service offered by many retirement residences. These short term stays are similar to respite care; not all homes distinguish these two types of stays from each other.
Costs of respite care in a retirement home
Respite care costs are, in many cases, similar to what you pay for long term care or continuing care. For short-term stays in a care home, the price may be based on the length of your stay, with lower per-day costs the longer your stay.
Costs per province, a survey:
| Province | Respite care offered | Cost |
| Ontario | Home health care services | Free, if you qualify1 |
| Ontario | Home care service provider | $30/hour or more |
| Ontario | Licensed practical nurse | $55 per hour |
| Ontario | Short stay respite care in a long term care home | $36CA per day, up to 60 consecutive days, funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care |
| Alberta | 4 weeks of respite care in a provincially-funded care center | Free2 |
| British Columbia | Government-subsidized long term care home | 32.59/day ($991/month)3 |
In all of the above cases, government support comes with some limitations. If you do not qualify for respite care services or you wish to avail yourself of a longer term than allowed by provincial government regulations, you may contact local retirement homes to find out about fees charged for services and care you require.
Paying for respite care
In Ontario, the provincial government supports respite care in a variety of options, including in-home care and a short stay in a long term care home. Funding from the provincial government only allows for 60 consecutive days in long term care, and a total of 90 days per year, only.
You will need to contact your local government services coordinator (such as LHINs in Ontario or The Ministry of Health Services in BC) to get full information on applying, and terms of availability.
In the province of Alberta, you can apply for hardship funding.
A closer look at short-term retirement home stays
A short stay in a retirement home can lead to a longer commitment to that senior facility, most often when seniors or their families come to realize the need for extended care. In the end, this might be thought of as an impromptu or at least unplanned "trial stay" in a retirement home where someone comes to realize that retirement homes are different from their preconceptions. People still have some aversion to moving to a retirement home for one of a variety of reasons. They may have a negative perception of seniors' care homes based on media representations or lingering cultural prejudices. Some people just feel the importance of being self-reliant above anything else.
No matter people's objections, a stay in a seniors' care residence may turn around perceptions 180 degrees. You may find that you love the care you receive in the home, the friends you make there, or the facilities you find. A temporary stay is a good way to "get a feel for" a community and its amenities, and figure out how well they fit with what you want and need. It all begins with keeping an open mind.
We tell the story of how Yvonne’s mom took some convincing, but eventually, she got her mom to just give it a try, a turning point in helping their whole family move forward. "It’s a real eye opener,” says Donna Carlesso of V!VA. The community where she works offers convalescent care stays that include “up to 60 minutes of care a day, anything from getting medication to help with getting their day started."
Other people in her community testify to the benefits they received from a trial stay. "For one thing, I found it really easy to go back and forth to my house," says Audrie. “My mind was open to the idea, sure, but actually living here really gives you a feel for it." An immersion in the life of the community was what she needed to turn the corner. "I wasn’t convinced that I was ready to sell my home and deal with all my things." However, the two week trial showed her that independent senior living was better than the "independence" of living alone. Read related stories about the benefits of trial stays.
Elinor presents another great testimonial to the value of a short trial in trial stays. "It got to be too much," she told Comfort Life. "I couldn't get up the stairs anymore." She took a brief respite stay in a local retirement home and, as she put it later, "I thought, this isn't bad! Here, I have my own room... I don't have to shop for groceries and I don't have to make my bed." Read Elinor's whole story.
You can even take several different trial stays in local retirement homes and find out which one best suits you. Homes allow respite or trial stays of varying lengths that last up to three months, with costs matched to the length of your stay, in a kind of "pay-as-you-go" idea. Some people decide after a few days that this is where they want to stay, while in other cases, someone may slowly come to realize that they don't like the facility in which they are staying and they want to go back home or try something else.
What few people realize is the great flexibility and options offered by today's retirement homes. As one care coordinator has told us, "If somebody wants to come just for the winter, you can do that. Or, if you’ve had a water leak in your house, and would like get away while its repaired, you can do that, too." Read "Getting Away," a profile of how a retirement home respite care stay opens eyes.
A short term stay can be the best way to experience everything a retirement community has to offer. You can call any homes here to book a tour or meet them otherwise, and begin to test out what local communities have to offer.
Sources and further reading
lhins.gov.on.ca
ontario.ca/page/temporary-respite-care-caregivers
albertahealthservices.ca/scns/Page7702.aspx
health.gov.bc.ca/../Guide_to_Your_Care_Booklet2007_Final.pdf
albertahealthservices.ca/../ahs-scn-srs-quick-facts.pdf
sunlife.ca/../Completereport-LTC-Costs-BC.pdf
LHINs in Ontario: healthcareathome.ca/
www2.gov.bc.ca/../short-term-residential-care
Notes:
1Based on evaluation by LHIN
2Limited to four weeks per year. See seniors-housing.alberta.ca/seniors/SNA-items-funded.html. Families may also apply for hardship funding.
3Figures from 2015: sunlife.ca/files/advisorabc/english/pdf/Completereport-LTC-Costs-BC.pdf
