Toronto Crisis Admissions

Crisis admissions refer to short-notice placements in retirement homes or long-term care, typically when a senior is no longer safe at home. These are often triggered by a sudden decline in health, caregiver burnout, or an unstable housing situation. Most of the time, the individual is still in the community and the goal is to avoid hospitalization.

If someone is already on the long-term care waitlist, they may be eligible for a crisis designation through Ontario Health atHome, which allows for quicker placement. The available bed may not be in a preferred home, but it provides immediate care and support.

Some crisis placements, particularly in long-term care, become permanent unless the individual chooses to move later when a preferred home becomes available.

Crisis admissions may be coordinated through Ontario Health atHome if a person is already approved for long-term care. Placement is based on urgency and availability. Private-pay retirement homes may also offer short-notice placements if a bed is available.

Availability is limited and changes daily. Some homes may be more experienced in handling crisis placements. Personal choice is often limited in these situations.

In situations where the person is showing aggressive behaviours, crisis admission into a retirement or long-term care home may not be possible. These homes may not be equipped to manage high-risk behaviours, and a mental health-focused intervention may be required. Similarly, if a person is wandering due to dementia, only residences with secure memory care units may be able to admit them. In both cases, options are further limited and should be discussed with healthcare professionals or care coordinators.

Some older adults may face crises related to mental health or substance use. These situations may require specialized services rather than physical care placements. Support options can include crisis response, psychiatric assessment, and short-term stabilization programs.

• Reconnect’s Crisis Outreach Service for Seniors
• CAMH Geriatric Inpatient Services
• Seniors Crisis Access Line (SCAL)

• Placements are based on need and availability, not preference
• Long-term care crisis beds often become permanent placements
• Retirement home placements are usually short-term and privately paid
• Paperwork and assessments may be required in funded scenarios
• Ask clear questions about services, costs, and what happens next

• Research Retirement Homes in Toronto
• Connect with a Lifestyle55+ Consulting Specialist
• Start the long-term care application early
• Keep medical and personal information organized and accessible

There is no official public list of available crisis beds. Ontario Health atHome can advise on urgent long-term care placements. Some retirement homes accept short-notice residents privately. Availability changes quickly and varies by day.

• Short Stays and Trial Stays
• Respite Care
• Assisted Living
• Long-Term Care
• Transitional Care