Companies
James Street Retirement Residence
Nestled in a charming downtown setting, this residence combines Victorian-era charm with modern amenities, creating a supportive environment where seniors can thrive. With a focus on vibrant living, residents enjoy chef-prepared meals, a variety of recreational programs, and 24-hour medical attention, all designed to foster independence and community connections.
View ProfileRogers Cove Retirement Residence
Nestled on the serene shores of Fairy Lake, this charming community offers a unique lakeside lifestyle enriched by natural beauty and a vibrant atmosphere. Residents enjoy personalized care plans, 24-hour medical assistance, and a variety of engaging social and recreational programs, all while savoring picturesque sunsets and scenic boat tours from the comfort of their spacious suites with lake views.
View ProfileMuskoka Traditions Retirement Residence
Nestled in the heart of cottage country, Muskoka Traditions Retirement Residence combines charm and comfort with a vibrant community atmosphere, offering residents a warm and welcoming place to call home. With a focus on enriching lives through engaging activities, delicious meals, and compassionate care, this residence provides a peaceful retirement experience while ensuring personalized support is readily available as needs evolve.
View ProfileThe Alexander Muskoka Residence
Nestled close to the waterfront, this residence fosters a vibrant sense of community where residents can enjoy social opportunities and a variety of recreational activities. With a focus on safety and well-being, the property provides tailored care options, including independent living, assisted living, and specialized memory care, ensuring that each individual receives the support they need while maintaining their independence.
View ProfilePeterborough Retirement Residence
Nestled near the serene Otonabee River, this residence boasts bright, ground-level living spaces designed for easy navigation and abundant natural light, complemented by beautiful gardens. Known for its exceptional standard of care, a dedicated team of over 70 trained staff members provides 24-hour support, fostering a welcoming atmosphere where residents can socialize, engage in activities, and enjoy flexible care options tailored to their individual needs.
View ProfilePrincess Gardens Retirement Residence
Beautifully landscaped grounds and a stunning three-storey indoor Atrium create an inviting atmosphere at Princess Gardens Retirement Residence, where residents enjoy a blend of comfort and independence. With a long-standing reputation for exceptional care, this community supports an active lifestyle through a variety of tailored care options, ensuring that each individual's changing needs are met while providing easy access to the vibrant offerings of downtown Peterborough.
View ProfileEmpress Gardens Retirement Residence
Nestled in a charming British-style building, this elegant retirement community exudes warmth and hospitality, featuring beautifully designed common areas, spacious atriums, and inviting fireside lounges. With a commitment to high-quality care and a vibrant atmosphere, residents enjoy a variety of lifestyle options, including independent living and tailored assisted care, alongside delightful amenities like an on-site tea room renowned for its daily high tea service.
View ProfileCanterbury Gardens Retirement Residence
A bright three-storey indoor Atrium filled with trees and natural light serves as a vibrant central gathering place for residents to walk, relax, and socialize throughout the year. This modern retirement community fosters a warm, social atmosphere where individuals can enjoy independence and comfort, supported by a range of tailored care options that adapt to changing needs while promoting a philosophy of Healthy Aging in Place.
View ProfileRoyal Gardens Retirement Residence
The Royal Atrium, a stunning three-storey indoor park adorned with gardens, trees, and a fountain, serves as a serene backdrop for events and gatherings, fostering community connection among residents. With beautifully designed indoor spaces, including cozy lounges and a peaceful library, this vibrant retirement community emphasizes a warm atmosphere where individuals can maintain their independence, stay active, and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle while receiving tailored care as their needs evolve.
View ProfileApplewood Retirement Residence
Nestled within two acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this family-oriented community emphasizes comfort and personalized care, allowing residents to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle while having support readily available. With a range of flexible care options, including independent living and 24/7 assisted services, residents can thrive in a peaceful setting that balances social engagement with the freedom to personalize their living spaces.
View ProfileCaressant Care - Marmora
Surrounded by the natural beauty of lakes, rivers, and forests, this retirement home exudes a welcoming country feel, providing residents with a peaceful and serene environment ideal for comfort and relaxation. Engaging activities cater to a range of interests, while nutritious meals crafted by a registered dietitian ensure that individual dietary needs are met, all within a supportive atmosphere where independence is encouraged and compassionate assistance is readily available.
View ProfilePort Perry Villa Retirement Living
Engaging daily living programs and a charming historic atmosphere create a vibrant community at Port Perry Villa, where residents can enjoy nutritious meals and a variety of activities designed to foster friendships and well-being. With amenities such as a games room, fireside lounge, and exercise facilities, this welcoming residence encourages an active and fulfilling lifestyle in a supportive environment.
✓ Verified Availability
as of Jun 2, 2026
Starting from $175/month
Amica Little Lake
Overlooking the serene waters of Little Lake, this community seamlessly blends an enriching lifestyle with personalized care options, fostering an inviting atmosphere for residents seeking independent living, assisted living, or specialized memory care. A dedicated wellness team, available around the clock, ensures that each individual's unique needs are met while promoting independence in a safe and comfortable environment.
View ProfileButternut Manor
Nestled in a charming countryside community, Butternut Manor provides a warm, home-like atmosphere where residents are treated as family, fostering independence and well-being. With dedicated staff available around the clock and a commitment to personalized care, this retirement home ensures a supportive environment complemented by nutritious meals and regular housekeeping services.
✓ Verified Availability
as of Jun 1, 2026
Starting from $150/month
Aspira Douglas Crossing Retirement Living
A vibrant atmosphere filled with activities and companionship awaits residents, who can enjoy private suites and chef-prepared meals while engaging in a variety of social and fitness programs. With personalized care plans and a dedicated wellness team available around the clock, individuals can relish the freedom of independent living or receive tailored assistance, ensuring both comfort and peace of mind.
View ProfileGolden Pond Retirement Residence
Livita Barrington Retirement Residence
Surrounded by mature trees and beautifully landscaped gardens, this residence fosters a vibrant community atmosphere where residents can thrive through engaging programs and personalized care services. With a focus on balanced living, the property combines tranquility with urban convenience, offering independent and assisted living options, as well as respite care, all supported by dedicated staff and a range of amenities designed to enhance daily life.
✓ Verified Availability
as of Jun 1, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is respite care?
Respite care is temporary, short-term care designed to give primary caregivers a break while ensuring their loved one continues to receive the support they need. It can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the arrangement and the type of facility. Respite care is commonly used when a family caregiver needs time to rest, recover from illness, travel, or manage other responsibilities. It's available in a variety of settings in Ontario, including retirement homes, long-term care homes, and adult day programs.
Is respite care the same as hospice care?
No, respite care and hospice care are very different. Respite care is temporary care meant to give a caregiver a planned break, with the expectation that the person receiving care will return home afterward. Hospice care, also known as palliative care, focuses on comfort and quality of life for individuals with a terminal illness and is not time-limited in the same way. The two are sometimes confused because both involve care during a difficult period, but their purposes are distinct. If you're looking for short-term relief as a caregiver, respite care is the term you're looking for.
Who is respite care for?
Respite care benefits both the person receiving care and the caregiver providing it. It's designed for families and individuals who are managing ongoing care at home — whether for a senior with mobility challenges, someone living with dementia, or a loved one recovering from illness or surgery. Caregiving is demanding, and taking regular breaks is essential to avoiding burnout. Respite care ensures your loved one is looked after in a safe, supportive environment while you step away to recharge.
How much does respite care cost in Ontario?
The cost of respite care in Ontario depends on where and how it's provided. Short-stay respite in a long-term care home is available at a government-set daily rate, which makes it one of the more affordable options. Respite care in a retirement home is typically privately priced and varies by residence, level of care, and length of stay. Adult day programs may also be offered at lower or subsidized rates depending on the provider. It's worth contacting your local Ontario Health atHome office to find out which options are available in your area and whether any financial assistance applies.
How do I arrange respite care in Ontario?
A good starting point is to contact Ontario Health atHome at 1-833-515-1234. A care coordinator can assess your loved one's needs and help you explore respite options, including short-stay programs in long-term care homes and community-based alternatives. Many retirement homes also offer respite stays that you can arrange directly with the residence. If your loved one is already receiving home care services through Ontario Health atHome, your existing care coordinator can help organize respite as part of your care plan. Planning ahead is recommended, as short-stay beds and program spaces can have waitlists.
How long can someone stay in respite care?
The length of a respite care stay varies depending on the setting and the program. Short-stay respite in a long-term care home in Ontario is typically available for up to 60 days per calendar year, though individual stays may be shorter. Retirement homes often offer more flexible arrangements and can accommodate stays of a few days to several weeks depending on availability. Adult day programs provide daytime respite on a recurring or drop-in basis. Your care coordinator through Ontario Health atHome can help you determine what duration and frequency of respite makes sense for your situation.
What should I look for when choosing a respite care provider?
Start by considering what matters most for your loved one's comfort and safety during the stay. Key factors include the level of care provided, staff qualifications, the environment and cleanliness of the facility, and whether the setting can accommodate any specific needs such as dementia care or mobility support. Ask about daily routines, meals, social activities, and how the staff handles emergencies. If you're considering a retirement home, confirm that it's licensed by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority. For short-stay respite in a long-term care home, your Ontario Health atHome care coordinator can walk you through the available options and what to expect.
Can respite care lead to a permanent stay?
It can, but that's not its primary purpose. Some families use a respite stay as an opportunity to see how their loved one adjusts to a residential setting, and in some cases it helps inform a decision about a longer-term move. In retirement homes, transitioning from a respite stay to permanent residency is often straightforward if space is available and the fit is right. For long-term care homes, a permanent placement still requires a formal application and assessment through Ontario Health atHome, regardless of whether a respite stay has already taken place. Respite care is meant to be temporary, but it can be a helpful step in a larger conversation about future care needs.
