Toronto Short Stays

Short stays in Toronto retirement homes are a flexible solution for older adults who need temporary support. Whether recovering from an illness, navigating a life transition, or simply exploring the retirement lifestyle, these short-term options can last anywhere from a few days to a few months. These stays offer the comforts of home along with the support of trained staff, meals, recreation, and care services. While they’re sometimes confused with respite or trial stays, short stays in retirement homes cover a broader range of needs. They work well for post-hospital recovery, housing gaps, or caregiver relief.

• Convalescent or Post-Operative Care: A short stay provides the extra help someone may need after a hospital visit. Services often include meals, personal care, and medication support while recovering.
• Interim or Transitional Housing: For seniors waiting for long-term care placement or going through a move or renovation, a short stay offers a safe and supportive space in the meantime.
• Lifestyle Trial Stay: Trying out retirement living before making a bigger move is common. A short stay gives residents a chance to experience the community, dining, and daily routines.
• Caregiver Relief: When a caregiver needs to travel or take time off, a short stay ensures their loved one is cared for and has opportunities to socialize.

• A furnished suite, either private or shared
• Daily meals and snacks
• Housekeeping and laundry
• Access to recreation and wellness programs
• Optional personal care and medication reminders
• 24-hour staff on-site

Evelyn, 81, needed three weeks of recovery time after a fall. Her daughter arranged a short stay at a retirement residence near her midtown Toronto home.
Gary, 76, booked a two-week stay with his wife to explore retirement living before deciding to sell their condo.
Sonia, 85, stayed temporarily while her apartment was being renovated to improve accessibility.
Manuel, 90, used a short stay as a bridge while waiting for his long-term care placement.

• Availability: Not all homes in Toronto offer short-stay programs, and suites can fill quickly. Some allow last-minute bookings if space is available.
• Length of Stay: Minimums vary. Some homes offer short weekend visits, while others may require a stay of one or two weeks.
• Care Level: Not all retirement homes provide the same level of support. If personal care is needed, be sure to ask what help is available.
• Location: Consider how close the home is to hospitals, transit, and family members. Toronto has options across different neighbourhoods.

Short Stays in Long-Term Care Homes: Some government-funded long-term care homes offer short-stay programs, usually for respite or convalescent care. These are arranged through Ontario Health atHome and require an eligibility assessment. Unlike retirement homes, LTC short stays may be subsidized, but space is limited and wait times vary. If you believe a loved one may qualify, contact a care coordinator or hospital discharge planner for more information.

• Hazelton Place Retirement Residence
• Villa Pugliese Assisted Living Facility
• Meighen Retirement Residence

• Retirement Homes
• Respite Care
• Trial Stays
• Long-Term Care
• Independent Living

• How long is a short stay in a Toronto retirement home? Most short stays last anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months, depending on the home's policies.
• Are short stays furnished? Yes. Most suites are fully furnished and move-in ready.
• Can I get help with personal care during a short stay? Many homes offer assistance with tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication. Always ask in advance.
• Are medical staff available? Staff are on-site 24 hours a day. Some homes have nurses, while others may work with outside care providers.
• Is a short stay a good way to test out retirement living? Yes. A short stay allows someone to experience the environment and services before making a permanent move.