Living Independently in Ontario Retirement Homes — by: Rahim Charania

When it comes to senior healthcare, there are many options in Ontario. The elderly can find assistance with living facilities offers 24/7 care and assistance as well as retirement homes where seniors have accommodations for living with minimal assistance to greater assistance as ageism progresses.

Seniors who are in good health rely on retirement homes for a place to live without the need for long-term care.

Retirement homes are privately owned and are rented by seniors under the Landlord Tenancy Act and services are retained by the retirement home. Seniors will live very independently in such housing and may eventually have to rely on medical professionals or a staff for help. With the right support and tools in place, seniors can live out their lives in a retirement home setting and avoid long term care or a nursing home. Each retirement home is unique in the services they can offer.

Source: Canadian Association for Retired Persons

Ontario Retirement Home Law

When it comes to retirement homes in Ontario, seniors services are protected via the Retirement Homes Act. All retirement homes located in Ontario are regulated by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA).

This group enforces the safety standards of retirement homes as well as care standards, plus supporting the rights of residents. Licensing is required for such facilities as well as inspections being conducted regularly, and any complaints investigated.

Eligibility for Retirement Home Living

For a senior to live in a retirement home, they must be able to pay for living expenses and care costs. A retirement home may decide to assess your individual needs to ensure that the right level of support can be provided safely to meet your needs.

Source: HuffPost

When accepted by a retirement home, you will find that each facility offers varying services or amenities. As you research retirement homes, be sure to look for what the facility offers. Such factors to consider include if you want your own room or a larger apartment space. Does the facility offer wheelchair access if needed? What about housekeeping, meals, laundry, etc.? These are factors you will need to consider.

It is also important to focus on social aspects and recreation. What such services are provided? Are there programs you can take advantage of? What about entertainment options? does the facility have shared dining rooms and common areas for socializing? How about a beauty salon, swimming pool, or library?

Consider what features or amenities are important to you? Make a list of what you want to have access to and find facilities that offer such options. You want to be happy with the facility you choose and be able to have what you need on-site.

You will need to cover the full cost of living and retirement homes can be quite expensive. You may be required to spend $2,500 to $6,000 each month for your living quarters and amenities. Be sure that the cost is something you can afford based on what you are being offered. Often times, you can opt out of certain services to cut down on cost.