Types of Providers
When it comes to deciding among Senior’s housing and services alternatives, everyone and every situation is unique. Thankfully, there exists a broad spectrum of options catering to varying levels of needs, preferences and budget. The following sets out various options that comprises this spectrum, generally starting with those geared to relatively independent and healthy persons, progressing through alternatives for those with a higher degree of frailty and needs.
Community Support Services
Services which help to support the client’s independence in their own home. Services are non-medical in nature and include meal preparation/delivery, homemaking, home maintenance, transportation, security checks and friendly visiting, among others.
Home Health Care
For people who need help to remain comfortably and safety at home. Services range from nursing care and specialized therapies, to non-medical services such as meal preparation and homemaking. Certain services may be eligible for funding through Community Care Access Centres.
Independent Supportive Living
Apartment-style accommodation with availability of services such as meals, homemaking , 24 hour staffing and social/recreational activities.
Retirement Residences
Retirement homes provide accommodation, varying levels of care and supportive services in a residential setting for those who can no longer maintain daily living with independence. Home typically provides meals, social /recreational programs, 24 hours staffing, laundry and housekeeping services, supervision or administration of medications and often a degree of personal care.
Assisted Living
Assisted Living refers to providers that cater to persons who are frail and require supervision, hands-on personal nursing care services and frequently assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing. Care is often provided in a designated section of the residence.
Long-Term Care
Long-Term Care Homes, as known as nursing homes and homes for the aged, are residences for people who are not able to live independently and require 24-hour nursing services. Eligibility for placement in a long-term care home is based on care needs, determined and arranged for by Community Care Access Centres ( CCAC ) The resident pays for the accommodation, while care and programs are paid by the government.
Alzheimer Care
Specialized care and supportive programs for persons with Alzheimer Disease or other form of memory loss or cognitive impairment. Providers may be facility or community base.
Hospice Care
Hospice Care may be provided in the home or in a facility setting. It aims to relieve suffering and improve the quality of life for persons and/or families living with a terminal illness. Hospice Care may include pain or symptom control, and an array of emotional, spiritual and physical supportive services.
Provided by The Care Guide addition 2013.