• Health
• Family Health
• Seniors' Health

What are seniors' homes?

You can choose to live in different kinds of special housing for seniors only. Some homes are for independent living, which means that you do not get any special services. Some homes have health care or personal care services for you.

In Ontario, many seniors live independently or with family members.

If you want to live independently and do not need any services or personal care, consider a senior's apartment. These apartments focus on seniors, but do not have extra services or have only a few extra services. Most or all of the tenants in the apartment building are seniors.

If you want some services or personal care, consider these types of housing:

• Retirement homes
• Supportive housing
• Long-term care homes

These types of housing have different levels of service and personal care. For more information about these options, go to:

• Find a Retirement Home - This webpage outlines the steps involved in finding an appropriate seniors' home. From the Government of Ontario.
• Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA) - The RHRA regulates retirement homes in Ontario.  Their website includes a listing of retirement homes.

Some cities have subsidized housing programs that focus on seniors. You may be eligible for a subsidy or for rent-geared-to-income housing. For more information, go to What is subsidized housing?

For More Information

• Tips on Choosing a Retirement Residence - Suggestions about what to think about when you choose a retirement home. From the Ontario Retirement Communities Association.
• A Guide to Programs and Services for Seniors in Ontario - Information about programs and services for seniors in Ontario. You can get it in many languages.
• Seniors' Info - This website has information and links for seniors in Ontario.
• Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs) - A LHINs can arrange for health professionals to come to your home.