Toronto Trial Stays

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Overview

A trial stay is a short-term visit in a retirement home where seniors can try out daily life before making a permanent move. Guests live in a furnished suite and access meals, social programs, and support services. Many retirement homes in Toronto offer trial stays lasting a few days to several weeks.

Learn more about retirement homes in Toronto.

Who Might Benefit from a Trial Stay?

Seniors exploring retirement living options
People recovering from surgery or illness
Families needing short-term support for an aging loved one
Adults going through a life transition or relocation
Anyone who wants to experience retirement living before deciding

What’s Typically Included?

While offerings vary by residence, most trial stays include:

Private furnished suite
Three meals daily and snacks
Programs and social activities
24/7 staff support
Housekeeping and laundry
Personal care (where available)
Use of lounges, libraries, gardens, and other amenities

Trial Stay vs. Respite and Short Stays

Each option serves a different purpose:

Trial Stay: Helps you experience retirement living before committing
Respite Care: Offers caregiver relief with short-term supervised stays
Short Stay: Often used after hospital discharge or during a transition

All retirement homes in Ontario are licensed under the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA).

Is a Trial Stay Right for You?

If you're unsure about moving into a retirement home, a trial stay offers a chance to explore daily life, meet staff and residents, and enjoy meals and activities in a safe, supported environment.

Need help deciding? Speak with a Lifestyle55+ Consultant for personalized support.

Toronto Retirement Homes That Offer Trial Stays

Cost of Trial Stays in Toronto

How much does a trial stay in a senior residence cost in Toronto?

The cost of a trial stay in a senior residence in Toronto depends on the specific home and their policies. Some retirement homes offer a complimentary trial stay for a few days, while others charge a daily rate. In most cases, the price depends on the length of the stay, services used, and the type of accommodation. Rates for paid trial stays usually fall within the same range as short stays—often between $100 and $175/day—but this can vary widely.

Are there limits on how long I can stay for a trial period?

Yes, each residence sets its own policies regarding minimum and maximum lengths of trial stays. Some may allow only a couple of days, while others may permit a week or longer. Whether the stay is complimentary or billed will also depend on these limits. It's important to speak directly with the residence to understand their specific terms and conditions.

Can I use the Senior Housing Cost Calculator to compare trial stay costs?

Yes. If you know the rate for a trial stay in your chosen residence, you can compare it with your current monthly living costs using our Senior Housing Cost Calculator. This can help you evaluate whether a trial stay makes sense financially before committing long-term.