Short stays in Toronto retirement homes provide temporary housing and support for seniors who may be recovering from illness, transitioning between living arrangements, or simply testing out retirement living. These stays can range from a few days to a few months and offer access to meals, care services, recreation, and 24-hour staff.
Whether it's a planned visit or a quick solution to an urgent situation, short stays provide flexibility without a long-term commitment. They are distinct from respite or trial stays by covering a broad range of reasons, from convalescent care to housing gaps to caregiver relief.
Ruth, 84, needed two weeks of rest and support after being discharged from the hospital. Her family booked her a short stay close to home in Toronto.
Daniel, 78, and his partner spent a month at a local residence to try out retirement living before deciding to sell their family home.
Lila, 87, stayed temporarily while her daughter renovated the main floor of their shared home for improved accessibility.
Arjun, 91, required a safe and comfortable place to stay while waiting for his long-term care bed to become available.
Short Stays in Long-Term Care Homes: Some long-term care homes offer government-funded short-stay programs. These are often for respite or convalescent care and must be arranged through Ontario Health atHome. They are subsidized but may have limited availability. Speak with a care coordinator or hospital discharge planner to learn more.
Costs for short stays in Toronto vary depending on the type of residence and level of care. In retirement homes, daily rates typically range from $100 to $175/day, and can be higher if more care services are required. Pricing is based on accommodation type, services included, and the home's ownership and location. In long-term care homes, a short-stay rate applies (currently under $45/day), and includes accommodation only. Care is covered by the government for eligible short-stay residents.
Yes, but the rules vary. In long-term care homes, short stays are generally limited to 60 consecutive days at a time, with a total of 90 days per year allowed. Retirement homes set their own minimum and maximum stay policies, which may range from a few days to several weeks or more. It's best to speak with each home directly to confirm what they offer for short stays.
Yes. If you know the short stay rate at your chosen residence, you can compare that cost with your typical monthly expenses using our Senior Housing Cost Calculator. This helps determine if a short stay is a financially practical option in Toronto.
2100 Bloor Street West, Toronto ON, M6S1M7
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303 Queens Drive, Toronto ON, M6L3C1
225 St. George Street, Toronto ON, M5R2M2
429 Walmer Road, Toronto ON, M5P2X9
921 Millwood Road, Toronto ON, M4G1X2
914 Bathurst Street, Toronto ON, M5R3G5
439 Sherbourne Street, Toronto ON, M4X1K6
77 Dunfield Avenue, Toronto ON, M4S2H3