Types of facilities
Working with your parents to find a place to live as they age is a difficult undertaking (find out how one woman approached the situation here). We've deciphered the jargon and broken down the choices according to need, services and care level.
Adult lifestyle community
Also called: Retirement community, active lifestyle community
Designed for: Seniors who are independent, healthy and active
Typical unit: Bungalow, townhouse or apartment
Ownership: The units may be individually owned, but are usually condominium or life lease.
Typical services: Social/recreation activities (outings, fitness classes, clubs, etc.)
Care level: Low
Independent Living
Also called: Seniors' apartments
Designed for: Seniors who are mostly independent but want the option of on-site care
Typical unit: One- or two-bedroom apartment with full kitchen
Ownership: These facilities may be operated by private businesses, non-profit agencies, co-operative associations, or government agencies or ministries.
Typical services: Social/recreation activities; on-site staff; optional meals, laundry and housekeeping
Care level: Low to medium
Retirement Home
Also called: Seniors' residence, supportive housing, assisted living
Designed for: Seniors who may need assistance with daily living
Typical unit: Bed-sitting room with private bathroom and sometimes a kitchenette
Ownership: These facilities may be operated by private businesses, non-profit agencies, co-operative associations, or government agencies or ministries.
Typical services: Social/recreation activities; on-site staff; meals, laundry and housekeeping; optional assistance with daily living (bathing, dressing, medication, etc.); optional physical/ cognitive therapies
Care level: Medium to high
