6 Common Questions About Retirement Homes

There’s never a time we’re taught the difference between a retirement home and a long-term care home – rather it’s a question that’s often thrust upon us when an aging loved one needs support.  We get it, we built Elderado because we were in those shoes.  Here are the answers to 6 common questions we get about retirement homes in Ontario.

What is the difference between a retirement home and a long-term care home?

Retirement homes offer private-pay housing with flexible support services and are designed to provide comfort, safety, and a meaningful quality of life. Many retirement homes offer all your meals, social activities, recreational opportunities, and community events that help residents stay engaged and connected. They are suitable for older adults who are independent or need varying levels of support.

Long-term care homes provide 24-hour nursing and personal care for people with high care needs or complex medical conditions. Admission to long-term care is managed through Ontario Health atHome, and residents pay a co-pay fee to contribute towards the cost of accommodations and meals.

How can I find retirement homes with availability?

The Retirement Living Availability Registry on Elderado shows which retirement homes have current availability. You can find suites in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and respite care.

What levels of care are available in retirement homes?

Levels of care vary by home, but commonly include independent living, assisted living, memory care, and short-term or respite stays. Some retirement homes offer a full continuum of care, while others focus on a specific level of support.

How much does it cost to live in a retirement home?

Costs vary depending on suite size, care needs, services, location, and amenities, and fees are set by each operator. In Durham Region, independent living starts around $3,000 per month, assisted living starts around $4,000 per month, and memory care starts around $6,000 per month. Monthly rates will differ based on the level of care, the home, and the type of accommodation.

Care provided by a retirement home is private pay and is paid by the resident, while care in long-term care is covered by the province and residents are only required to pay a co-pay fee to contribute towards the cost of accommodation and meals.

You can find the starting price for most retirement homes on Elderado at https://www.elderado.ca/

What is a licensed retirement home?

A licensed retirement home meets the safety and care standards set by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA) and is required to follow the Retirement Homes Act, 2010 and the Residents’ Bill of Rights. All licensed retirement homes are required to post their RHRA license in a visible place in the home.

What is an unlicensed retirement home?

An unlicensed retirement home is any retirement home, retirement community, or 55+ community that is not licensed by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA).  Unlicensed retirement homes are not inspected by the RHRA, nor are the residents protected by the Retirement Homes Act, 2010 and the Residents’ Bill of Rights. All licensed retirement homes are required to post their RHRA license in a visible place in the home.

 

Click HERE to navigate and compare retirement homes.