Toronto Respite Care

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Overview of Respite Care in Toronto

Respite care in Toronto provides temporary support for older adults while allowing caregivers time to rest, travel, or manage other responsibilities. These short-term stays—often lasting from a few days to several weeks—can be planned or arranged on short notice, depending on availability.

This type of care is ideal for seniors recovering from surgery or illness, family members who need a break from caregiving, or older adults who want to try retirement living before making a permanent move. Respite care in Toronto is available in both licensed retirement residences and long-term care homes.

You may also hear it referred to as short-term senior care, temporary retirement home stay, or caregiver relief services in Toronto—all of which fall under the broader category of respite care.

Types of Respite Care in Toronto

Retirement Homes: Many retirement residences in Toronto offer short-term, private-pay stays with access to furnished suites, meals, daily care, and recreational programming. These are best suited for seniors who are mostly independent but need temporary support. Care is regulated by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA), and stays can typically be arranged directly with the home.

Long-Term Care Homes: For seniors with more complex health or cognitive needs, respite care is sometimes available in long-term care homes. These stays are arranged through Ontario Health atHome and are meant to give caregivers a break during times of stress, illness, travel, or transition.

Here’s what to know about respite care in long-term care settings:

Eligibility: Based on assessed care needs and bed availability. Best for individuals needing 24-hour supervision or medical support.
Stay duration: Up to 60 consecutive days, with a maximum of 90 days per year.
Costs: Daily co-pay covers room, meals, and nursing care. Not fully subsidized.
Access: Coordinated through a care coordinator at Ontario Health atHome or local access teams.
Alternatives: Adult day programs and in-home respite support may also be available.
Specialized care: Some homes offer respite programs tailored for dementia or medically complex individuals.

Planning ahead is recommended, as short-stay beds are often in high demand.

What to Expect During a Respite Stay

Whether in a retirement home or long-term care setting, respite stays generally include:

Furnished private or semi-private suite
Daily meals and snacks
Housekeeping and laundry services
Wellness checks and medication support
Personal care as needed (e.g., bathing, dressing)
Access to recreation, social events, and wellness programs
24/7 on-site staff and emergency response

Featured Respite Residences in Toronto

Several retirement residences in Toronto currently offer short-term respite stays. Featured listings include:

Each profile includes full details on services, care levels, and how to inquire about availability.

Explore Related Care Options in Toronto

Cost of Respite Care in Toronto

What does respite care cost in Toronto?

If you're wondering how much respite care costs in Toronto, the answer depends on where it’s provided. In most retirement homes, respite stays are billed at a daily rate, typically ranging from $100 to $175 per day. Pricing depends on the suite size, services included, and level of care required. These short-term senior care stays usually include meals, housekeeping, and basic support — though higher care needs may result in additional fees. Each residence sets its own prices and policies, including the minimum or maximum number of days allowed for a respite stay.

Is respite care in long-term care homes also charged daily?

Yes. In Ontario, respite care in long-term care homes is available at a government-set daily rate, currently just under $45/day. This covers room and board, while medical and personal care services are publicly funded. You can book a stay for up to 60 consecutive days at one time, and up to 90 days total per calendar year. Eligibility and access are coordinated through Health atHome.

For the latest rates, visit the Ontario Ministry of Health website.

Can I use the calculator to compare respite care costs to living at home?

Yes. If you want to compare the cost of a short-term stay in a retirement home with your current living expenses, our Senior Housing Cost Calculator can help. It's a practical tool for caregivers and families weighing temporary care options, especially if you're considering a trial stay before making a long-term decision.