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:
- What is assisted living?
- Assisted living and enriched care
- Choosing assisted living
- The cost of assisted living
- Specialized care offered in assisted living
- Assisted living across Canada
- Testimonials and case studies from people who live in assisted living
Assisted living retirement is ideal for residents of all ages who have some limitations in physical and cognitive health. Care in these retirement communities is intended for residents who need on-site assistance with personal care, mobility, medication management and support. "Assisted living" is a part of the traditional continuum of care, a model of care services that is changing with time.
IN-DEPTH REPORTSRetirement homes with assisted living
FEATURED
The Dunfield Retirement Residence
77 Dunfield Avenue, Toronto,
Ontario, M4S 2H3
The Dunfield Retirement Residence has established a new standard in senior retirement living in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) with 177 spacious apartments. Where people come to LIVE!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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 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
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
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
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
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
River Ridge Seniors Village
#4 River Ridge Dr. N.W., Medicine Hat,
Alberta, T1A 8V1
A premier Park Place residence in the heart of Medicine Hat offering independent living, supportive living, and long term care options. With spectacular views and services, River Ridge is a warm place to call home.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
Dr. Hemstock Retirement Residence and Hearthstone Place Verve Senior Living
4202 54 Ave, Lloydminster,
Alberta, T9V 2Z3
At Dr. Hemstock Residence & Hearthstone Place, our highly-skilled group of health care professionals and qualified staff are here to do whatever we can to ensure that all your needs are taken care of.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
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 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
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
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
Courtyard Gardens - Verve Senior Living
7051 Moffat Road, Richmond,
British Columbia, V6Y 3W2
Courtyard Gardens offers an enriching community, with quality staff & friendly & caring environment. 107 Private & Subsidized suites in Assisted Living, 31 Private Pay Extended Care studio suites & 1 Respite Suite.
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
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
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
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
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
Prince of Peace
300 Prince of Peace Way, Rocky View County,
Alberta, T1X 1G2
Enjoy prairie and mountain views at Prince of Peace Retirement Community, Alberta’s ideal senior living with personalized care from Independent Living to Memory Care in a safe, comfortable setting.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
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
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
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
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 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
Berwick On The Lake
3201 Ross Road, Nanaimo,
British Columbia, V9T 6L9
At Berwick on the Lake, residents enjoy red seal chef prepared meals in their choice of 3 dining rooms. Beyond our beautiful amenities, our residents also enjoy a full wellness program. Resort style living at it's best!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
The Concorde Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
3235 Skaha Lake Road, Penticton,
British Columbia, V2A 6G5
The Concorde has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with comfortable dining & excellent views of the mountains, along with extensive program activities; The Concorde is perfect for an active living & entertaining lifestyle.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted 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
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
The Heritage - Verve Senior Living
3630 Brown Rd, West Kelowna,
British Columbia, V4T7Y9
The Heritage Retirement Residence encompasses an active living & entertaining lifestyle with supportive & assisted living measures, Our highly skilled registered health care team will provide assistance when you need it.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
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
The Village of Wentworth Heights
1620 Upper Wentworth St., Hamilton,
Ontario, L9B 2W3
The Village of Wentworth Heights is a full-service retirement living community offering retirement apartments, full-service suites, assisted living and memory care.
Lifestyle Options: Apartments, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory 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 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
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
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
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
New Horizons Tower
1140 Bloor Street West, Toronto,
Ontario, M6H 4E6
A well-established not-for-profit, NHT is committed to enriching the lives of seniors. Gracious dining & café, the Terrace Garden, daily fitness, vibrant Concert Series - there is plenty for residents to enjoy at NHT!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
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
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
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
Berwick On The Park
60 Whiteshield Crescent, South Kamloops,
British Columbia, V2E 2S9
Nestled on the hillside, Berwick on the Park offers stunning panoramic mountain, valley and river views and flexible retirement lifestyles, including independent living and assisted living.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Berwick Parksville
180 Jensen Ave East, Parksville,
British Columbia, V9P 0G9
At Berwick Parksville, we strive to change the perception of retirement living by empowering our Residents to live their best life with us. We think of it as inspired retirement living.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
The Wellington Retirement Residence
1595 Southview Drive SE, Medicine Hat,
Alberta, T1B 0A1
As a premier Park Place multi-level care residence, The Wellington provides Independent and Supportive Living options for seniors seeking to maintain your independence while enjoying access and services to amenities.
Lifestyle Options: 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
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
Berwick Qualicum Beach
120 First Ave W, Qualicum Beach,
British Columbia, V9K 0B4
Berwick Qualicum Beach offers an array of amenities and engaging programs in our beautifully appointed community. Join our vibrant community today and enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle with some new friends.
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
Shepherd Terrace
3758 Sheppard Avenue East, Scarborough,
Ontario, M1T 3K9
Shepherd Terrace offers a variety of independent and assisted living suites within the renowned Shepherd Village. With its long history of providing caring service you’ll love the amenities and the excellent services.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Hawthorn Park Retirement Community - Verve Senior Living
867 KLO Road, Kelowna,
British Columbia, V1Y 9G5
Living at Hawthorn Park Retirement Residence means you have choices & can customize the services you need, as you need them. We offer three lifestyle opportunities; supportive living, assisted living & complex care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term 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
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
Verve Aspen Woods
10 Aspenshire Dr., SW Calgary,
Alberta, T3H 0T2
Located in one of Calgary’s most desirable neighbourhoods, with the Rocky Mountains outside and beautifully appointed amenities within, Verve Aspen Woods offers the perfect setting for your active enjoyment of life.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Golden Pond Retirement Residence
387 Goodrich Rd, Codrington,
Ontario, K0K 1R0
A truly unique environment for seniors who cherish a family-like atmosphere, complete with full support services, assisted living, and more—all in a natural setting enriched by light, sun, water, plants, and pets.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Berwick by the Sea
1353 16th Ave., Campbell River,
British Columbia, V9W 0C4
Berwick by the Sea offers you the freedom to spend your time doing the things you love most. Every area of the community has been carefully designed to offer something for everyone. Come join us on your next adventure!
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
Amica Riverside
4909 Riverside Drive East, Windsor,
Ontario, N8Y 0A4
Premium 11-storey retirement residence with a beautiful waterfront setting, located on Riverside Drive East, just south of Wyandotte Street. Overlooking the Detroit River, with views of Belle Isle and Reaume Park.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
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
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
The Riverine
328 Dundas Street West, Napanee,
Ontario, K7R4B5
Experience carefree living at The Riverine with all-inclusive rates & no hidden fees. Beautiful waterfront property; two levels of retirement living; elegant dining, housekeeping; 100% family owned & operated & more.
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
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
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 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
Don Mills Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living
2 Green Belt Drive, North York,
Ontario, M3C 1L8
A luxury senior living community in the heart of North York. Be inspired by beautifully appointed amenities in our state-of-the-art building offering exceptional care, intelligent technology & exciting life enrichment.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
Berwick Comox Valley
1700 Comox Avenue, Comox,
British Columbia, V9M 4H4
Berwick Comox Valley offers a resort-style retirement residence in a convenient downtown setting. This is West Coast living at its finest, truly affordable luxury.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living
The Village of Arbour Trails
32 Bayberry Drive, Guelph,
Ontario, N1G 0C9
Guelph retirement home offers Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care. Includes 24 hour onsite nursing team and medication support within a Village-like setting. It takes a Village to care.
Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory 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
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
The Vineyards Residence
726 Valley Road, Kelowna,
British Columbia, V1V 0E9
The Vineyards approach to assisted living & memory care allows people to go about life as they always have, despite health changes. Beautiful suites & homemade meals. Discover for yourself why we say Life’s Better Here
Lifestyle Options: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care
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
IN-DEPTH REPORTSHome care companies
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
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
What is assisted living?
Assisted living for seniors in Canada is housing or residences designed for people who need various types of medical and personal care. There are daily tasks most people take for granted, referred to as activities of daily living (ADLs). These include eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, and getting out of bed (also called transferring). For many older people, these tasks become more difficult, and they require assistance with them. Many communities offer flexibility in assisted living, tailored to the needs of the individual. Living spaces can be individual rooms, apartments, or shared quarters. Communities provide a home-like setting, physically designed to promote the resident's independence.
Assisted living communities in Canada generally offer the following:
- Onsite medical and care staff professionally trained to deal with the needs of seniors who are unable to perform some basic tasks
- Design for accessibility bathrooms and kitchens that can accommodate wheelchairs and walkers (rollators)
- Basic amenities that include a central dining room (where seniors can socialize without having to leave the community), lounges, and landscaped grounds, and some staff-planned events
- Unit styles are typically a rented private studio, one or two bedroom apartments or even small homes with kitchenettes including a small refrigerator and microwave
Some homes (like many listed here) offer access to fitness services, an on-site beauty salon, a post office, a pub or bar, and transportation that may include special events (movie nights, live events, etc.)
"People don’t realize that they can receive support for their health that is customized and delivered in a very comfortable and independent environment,” says Rose, the Health and Wellness Manager at one of the communities above. This puts the lie to one of the lingering myths about retirement communities, that they offer cookie-cutter solutions. When people come in to assess communities like hers, they’re "shocked by the buzz and activity throughout the community." Assisted living communities are full of people who love their jobs and seniors who indeed find revitalization in this environment.
As such, it’s a vibrant part of many retirement communities. While many communities offer assistance a la carte, some require this service to be separated. Assistance will be available only in select parts of the building, where it’s convenient for the community to provide care. In some cases, this may be in compliance with health care regulations. And it’s the right place to be when it’s what you need.
Tools to help you choose
Assisted living and enriched care
On a continuum of retirement care, assisted living offers a bit more independence than traditional long-term care facilities in Canada. It is also less costly than other levels of care.
The US-based National Centre for Assisted Living defines this resident as someone who is still "mobile, but needs assistance with approximately two to three activities of daily living (ADLs)." These activities of daily living are eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (walking) and continence1.
A note on care types and terminology
Definitions of types of care are not strictly adhered to everywhere, of course. In the province of Alberta, for example, the phrase supportive living is more commonly applied to the same care level commonly called assisted living elsewhere in Canada. In the United States, the phrase may apply more discretely to facilities where people have disabilities.
A growing number of retirement homes offer enriched care, high-level comprehensive support with personal care that's a kind of bridge while families wait for a long-term care bed to open. This can be described as a 24/7 licensed nursing and care team model offering full support for activities of daily living as well as medication administration. It emphasizes dignity and professional care, with round-theclock access to registered nurses and health care attendants. Residents with increasingly complex care needs can remain in a familiar community, supported by clinical help, deferring the need for a move to long‑term care. For the most part, though, retirement homes adhere to a straightforward definition of assisted living: on-site assistance with personal care, mobility, medication management and support.
Read more about variations in definition and regulation in Canada. (You can also get an overview of senior care definitions.)
Short stays in assisted living care
For families of the elderly, a short term stay in an assisted living seniors' home can be an ideal way to get an inside look at seniors' care in your area. There are a number of cases where caregivers should contact local retirement homes to find out more about this option:
Feel the need for a break from caregiving for elderly parents or relatives? Great idea. And this can help you be a better caregiver. Respite care stays offer caregivers a break. It's not well-known that a short stay in a retirement home can be subsidised by the government. For example, in Ontario, a respite care stay can be recommended by your local Community Care Access Centre. If you have to be out of town for a while, this can also be a good reason for a retirement home short stay. Respite stays can be 24 hours (depending on what the home allows) or up to 90 days. Different residences have different rules, so consult with each home to learn what they offer and allow.
Has your loved one been hospitalized or had a medical crisis? Variously called a recovery stay or convalescent care stay (among other terms), this type of short term stay is an excellent way of using local care homes to your advantage. If your loved one has been released from the hospital and is not quite ready to return home, a short stay in assisted living is a great bridge. Often, this will be on the recommendation of a physician.
Consult with homes listed above to learn if they offer temporary stays, or check out respite care and convalescent care options near you.
Choosing assisted living
Before choosing assisted living for yourself or for a loved one, there are many considerations. Foremost among these, for many people, will be the cost, but it's important to not compromise at the expense of getting the proper care that you require. Exceptional care is provided by many of the homes listed here at Comfort Life, and you may be able to afford more than you realize.
Be sure you know all your funding sources, and consider at least four or five different options that meet basic criteria you have in mind. Don't be afraid to look outside your area, and perhaps even outside of your financial comfort zone. Keep an open mind, as they say.
As you consider the variety of assisted living options in your area, be sure to take the Retirement Home Checklist with you. Some specific (or especially emphasized) concerns that apply, for those who are looking at assisted living care.
- Does the retirement home meet provincial standards?
- What accreditation does the residence have?
- What are the costs and what services are included in these costs?
- What varieties of in-home care are available and what are the costs associated?
- Do they offer a written service policy?
- Do residents seem happy or content with staff and with the retirement community?
- Are there reviews of the community?
- How many staff members are on hand and what general attitude do they express?
- Does staff make you feel comfortable and give the overall impression of caring professionalism?
- How much experience do they have dealing with your specific assisted living needs?
- If a short term stay is ideal for your case, is this available and encouraged?
- Is the housing modern or well designed for contemporary senior care needs?
- How recent are interior and exterior updates?
- How much staff turnover is there?
- How current is their call bell technology and how well are call bells located?
- Do residents have a choice of where to eat?
- Is the community clean and well kept?
- What recreational programs are available and how well suited are they to your loved one?
- How firm are the rates and what is the residence's history of rate increases?
Take this as a checklist, take a copy of the Checklist and add your own concerns.
The cost of assisted living
Assisted living care costs vary across Canada and also depend on the level of care required on a monthly basis. Rate prices are higher for people with high needs requiring a higher level of care as part of their assisted living retirement community stay. Of course, rates vary across Canada and also depend on the level of care required on a monthly basis. Costs are higher for people with high needs requiring a higher level of care as part of their assisted living retirement community stay. Costs can also vary depending on local factors.
Real estate prices and rental rates are, of course, very different in large centres vs. smaller communities; average real estate prices affect retirement unit rentals. For example, a home in a town in southeastern Ontario may cost in the range of $1700 per month while a home in downtown Toronto offering a similar level of accessibility, amenities and other assisted living features may cost over $3000 per month.
The physical location of the community and the amenities offered may also affect the cost of the home.
The following provides a basic survey of some costs you may pay for assisted living, in locations across Canada, including major centers in several provinces, as well as a variety of other cities and towns.
Location
|
Cost from
|
Care details included
|
Vancouver, BC
|
$3688 | housekeeping and meals
|
Calgary, AB
|
$4,800 | housekeeping, meals, bathing (1x/week), transfer, dressing, feeding, incontinence, medication administration
|
Etobicoke, ON
|
$3,600 | housekeeping
|
Paris, ON
|
$4,300 | housekeeping, meals, bathing (1x/week), transfer, dressing, feeding, incontinence, medication administration
|
Ottawa, ON
|
$4,500 | housekeeping, meals, bathing (1x/week), transfer, dressing, feeding, incontinence, medication administration
|
This provides only a survey. In some of the above cases, care does not include bathing, dressing and other assistance, although these were includable on a per-care fee basis, based on client needs. With today's senior care, there is an increasing move toward tailoring services and care individually, to best match individual needs. This means that you can use the above figures as a general guide but you will need to consult with homes to fully understand final costs you will be charged.
Paying for Assisted Living
Assisted living need not be prohibitive for families, and there are a variety of funding options. This includes government pension, your personal investments and savings, and other sources; review all the typical financing used by other Canadian seniors and their families.
Some insurance companies offer long-term care insurance as part of their benefits package, and if you are fortunate enough to have this, it can go a long way to easing the financial burden of retirement care. Over time, Comfort Life has done several case studies and closer look at the benefits of thinking ahead and purchasing this type of insurance. Stephen Gadsden, a certified financial planner (CFP), provided an overview of the value of purchasing long term care insurance for assisted living care. Mary Robertson, also a CFP, looked at the projected benefits of purchasing insurance now, with an eye toward projected care costs in the future.
In general, there is very little direct government support available to Canadian families and seniors seeking help to pay for assisted living care 2. Quite often, families take care of their own family members, then move into getting help through home health care services then move into seniors' care.
Care homes offer a variety of payment options tailored to your needs and abilities. Quite often, seniors and families get a reality check when they sit down and look at their finances, figuring out what it is actually costing them to stay at home – property taxes, heat, hydro, water, home repairs, car payments, gas, etc. – even in a home that is fully paid for. Compared to the flat rate you pay when you move into a care home, the cost of moving into a retirement home is not nearly as prohibitive as it might look on the surface.
Specialized care offered in assisted living
The most common types of activities requiring care support in an assisted living home are bathing and dressing, according to a survey by the US-based National Centre for Assisted Living. However, toileting, transferring and eating assistance are all typical care requirements. A survey in 2010 showed the following results in terms of percentages of residents requiring which services.
This offers a good overview of typical resident requirements:
- Bathing: 72%
- Dressing: 52%
- Toileting: 36%
- Transferring: 25%
- Eating: 22%
In addition, nearly 40% of residents required aid with three or more ADLs. In North America, an estimated 1.2 million people are living in this type of retirement home, with this number increasing steadily every year as the baby boom generation ages1. Since people in general value self-reliance, many people resist the idea of getting help, but as seen here, there are many others in the same boat. Having these basic needs taken care of frees residents up to enjoy life as much as ever, otherwise.
In the evolving world of seniors' care, definitions are not always clear, and are certainly not consistent from one province to another. "Assisted care may mean something different in every retirement community," says Barb Sutcliffe of Schlegel Villages in Ontario. Assistance with eating may be the result of a physical disability for one resident, but caused by a mental issue with another, and the assistance required may be different for each of those residents. In many independent living retirment homes, people get assistance in the form of meals provided, housework done, etc.
A look at some of the more specialized care offered, is as follows:
Memory care may be a special section or wing in some assisted living homes. In general, memory care is a specialized care offered by residences, where residents' needs are understood by all attendants, and specialized technology may be in use. Memory care means dedicated resources to deal with Alzheimer's Disease and its symptoms. Learn more about memory care.
Mobility care in an assisted living home. Many retirement residences, especially newer ones, are designed with mobility concerns in mind. Personal assistants are onsite to help seniors who are immobile, and there will be many mobility aids onsite. These will include in-suite hand rails, bathroom mobility, elevators, wheelchair ramps and more.
Incontinence is embarrassing to all involved but the discomfort can be eased greatly when handled by professional caregivers in a proper care home. Retirement homes with incontinence care offer relief to elderly patients suffering from urinary or bowel control problems. They handle it with grace, professionalism, care and dignity. Care and services offered in assisted living homes will include dealing with bedwetting, fluid monitoring, bladder volume training, bedwetting alarm systems and various pharmacological therapies.
Not every assisted living retirement home is the same as the next; each may have different stated specializations. This is why it is important to look around at different options in your area and research as much as you can, online and elsewhere. Different homes may be differently equipped to suit the specific needs of yourself or your loved one, so you want to find the one that is best outfitted to take care of your specific requirements. Speak in great detail, with a variety of operators and don't rush into a decision based solely on proximity to your home, or cost, or some other aspect of convenience only.
As the resident ages, needs may change (conditions may worsen, that is). There may be additional personal care required, and this may end up costing families more. As time goes on, families sometimes see fit to move to a different location where specializations or other conditions may be different. 77% of residents who live in assisted living have moved there from a private home or residence (sometimes having lived with a family member) but another 23% have moved there from another community, where their care needs (or perhaps other values) had changed. 1
Are you ready to move?
In our new guide, we look at facing some last minute fears, how communities welcome people, getting the full benefit of this life-change and more.
Take a full look at how to adjust to assisted living.
Assisted living across Canada
In provinces across the country, there are variations in the way assisted living (sometimes called assistive living) is understood, and how this type of care is governed provincially.
In British Columbia, assisted living is government regulated as it has been since the 2002 institution of the Community Care and Assisted Living Act. There are subsidized assisted living residences in BC, as well as many privately run places that offer exceptional care. In addition to government regulation, homes are also covered by the British Columbia Senior Living Association's (BCSLA) Assisted Living Registry, a provincial seal of approval ensuring you get the best care money can buy. BC's Bill of Rights for Residents provides a summary of standards of care, and the BC Ombudsperson provides annual updates to a 2012 report on offering The Best of Care for Seniors in British Columbia. Read more about assisted living in BC.
Alberta, as mentioned above, uses the distinct term 'supportive living' to refer to the same essential care level described as assisted or assistive living in many other areas. In the province of Alberta, vulnerable seniors are covered under the Protection for Persons in Care Act as well as the Supportive Living Accommodation Licensing Act, a comprehensive act that offers specific prescriptions governing care homes licensing, inspections and more. Read more about supportive living in Alberta.
In Ontario, assisted living is still viewed as a discrete type of care in many homes but within the industry, this definition is undergoing some revision. For example, many homes distinguish between the specific needs related to mental health as opposed to physical health, and retirement homes may be set up with distinct care areas related to different client needs. Read more about assisted living in Ontario.
Testimonials and case studies from people who live in assisted living
For people trying to remain in their own home, tting around the house.
life can eventually become too difficult, and you have to know when it is time to move. Various people – including family, social care workers, medical professionals – may be urging you to move into a retirement home where you can get the care you require. Many people, though, are reluctant to move.
Marie was one senior who did not want to move. “I’ll admit to you,” she said, “it was very hard to leave.” However, her husband suffered from deteriorating health and required assistance in just ge
Like Marie, you may come from a generation that finds it hard to admit the need for help. Prepare yourself to be pleasantly surprised at how beneficial some assisted living communities can be. Before finally moving out of her own home, after, admitting that her husband "couldn’t do things around the house anymore," Marie took the doctor’s advice and gave a chance at looking into assisted living retirement homes near her family. "I was amazed at how it actually felt like a home!"
The residence she moved into was amazing for a variety of reasons. First, everything was wheelchair accessible, and every wheelchair in the entire home is equipped with a GPS pendant that brings instant help when pushed. The couple takes part in many of the recreational activities offered at the community. Marie also loves "not having to cook meals." Communal meals are just one more added benefit of living in an assisted living home; they simply eat together without groceries to buy, without preparation needed and without dishes to clean up. “I love how it gives me more time to do things with my husband,” says Marie. You can read more about how Marie grew to love the assisted living home she moved into.
Assisted living helps make daily living more comfortable and relieves many of the minor stresses of daily life. This offers great relief for both seniors and also family members.
Read more stories and testimonials of the value of assisted living:
- How assisted living will improve your health and prolong your life.
- A story about how the move was challenging, but worth it in the end.
- Another about how finding the right place to live was a challenging journey worth taking.
- One more story showing how to optimize the value you'll get by moving when the time is right.
Notes
1National Center for Assisted Living: demographics
2See, for example, Ontario's advice that resorts to advice on the importance of financial planning, while also noting Ontario Works availability: http://www.seniors.gov.on.ca/en/seniorsguide/5.php
