Toronto Palliative Care

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Overview of Palliative Care in Toronto

Palliative care in Toronto helps seniors and individuals facing advanced illness by focusing on comfort, dignity, and symptom relief. It supports quality of life for both the person and their family—addressing pain, stress, and emotional needs rather than trying to cure the illness.

This type of care is available across Toronto in retirement residences, long-term care homes, hospitals, hospices, and even in your own home. The goal is to make each day as comfortable and meaningful as possible, regardless of stage of illness.

What Is Included in Palliative Care Services?

Palliative care in Toronto includes a range of supportive services based on individual needs:

Pain and symptom management
Personal care such as help with eating, bathing, or dressing
Medication coordination and monitoring
Mental health and emotional support
Family counselling and caregiver guidance
Spiritual or cultural support when requested

To learn more, visit Ontario’s Palliative and End-of-Life Care page.

Where Is Palliative Care Offered in Toronto?

Palliative care in Toronto is delivered in a variety of settings depending on your preferences and care needs:

Hospitals: Typically in dedicated palliative units focused on symptom relief, not curative treatment
Hospices: Residential care environments with a focus on peaceful, end-of-life care
Retirement homes: Palliative support may be available for existing residents; additional care needs may increase monthly fees
Long-term care homes: Palliative care is typically included for residents requiring support
At-home care: Managed through Ontario Health atHome

Want to compare senior housing options? Visit our page on Senior Housing in Toronto.

Is Palliative Care free in Toronto?

Understanding the cost of palliative care in Toronto depends on where the care is provided:

Hospice and hospital care: Usually fully funded by the province
At-home palliative care: May be free or subsidized through public health programs
Retirement homes: Services are paid privately and vary depending on care needs and service packages
Long-term care homes: Residents typically receive palliative support as part of their provincial care plan

Not sure what your family qualifies for? Our Consulting Services can help explain your options.

Need Help Choosing a Palliative Care Option in Toronto?

Planning for palliative care is deeply personal. Whether you're supporting a loved one or looking ahead for yourself, our team can guide you through your choices. We’ll help you explore local care options, understand costs, and connect with support services that meet your needs.

Cost of Palliative Care in Toronto

What is the cost of palliative care in Toronto?

In Ontario, palliative care is usually covered by OHIP when delivered through public health programs, whether at home, in hospital, in hospice, or in a long-term care home. These services include things like nursing, pain management, and emotional support near the end of life. You can learn more at the Ontario palliative care resource page.

However, there can still be some costs depending on where and how care is delivered. For example, if someone is already living in a retirement home, they would continue to pay their regular room and board. Any additional care—like extra nursing or personal support—may be added on privately, unless it’s arranged through Ontario Health atHome or another funded provider.

Hospice care is generally free to the patient, though there might be out-of-pocket costs for medications, personal items, or transportation. The best approach is to speak with the care team to understand what’s covered and what isn't.