Understanding the Difference Between Long-Term Care Homes & Retirement Homes

A Helpful Guide for Seniors and Families in Ontario

When it comes to choosing the right living option for yourself or a loved one, the process can feel overwhelming. In Ontario, two of the most common choices are Long-Term Care (LTC) homes and retirement homes—but they serve very different needs.

This guide will walk you through the key differences so you can make the best choice based on your care needs, budget, and lifestyle.

 What Is a Long-Term Care Home?

Long-Term Care (LTC) homes are government-funded facilities designed for people with serious or complex care needs. These homes provide round-the-clock medical and personal care, and are best suited for seniors who can no longer live safely at home—even with support.

Key Features:

• Regulated by the Ministry of Long-Term Care
  
• On-site nursing and personal support staff 24/7
  
• Includes meals, medication management, bathing, toileting, laundry, and housekeeping
  
• Structured activities and programs
  
• Admission requires an assessment to confirm eligibility

Costs (2024 Rates):

Basic room: ~ $2,700/month
Semi-private or private rooms: $3,200– $3,900/month
Financial help is available for low-income seniors for basic accommodations.

How to Apply:

Applications go through Ontario Health atHome (Home and Community Care Support Services (HCCSS))
A health assessment is required
*Waitlists are common, and can vary widely by location and preferred home

What Is a Retirement Home?

Retirement homes are privately operated residences offering a more flexible, lifestyle-based approach to aging. They’re a great fit for seniors who are still fairly independent but want added support, social opportunities, or peace of mind.

Key Features:

• Regulated by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA)
  
• Offer independent or assisted living options
  
• Meals, housekeeping, laundry, and personal care services available
  
• Social and wellness programming included (e.g., outings, fitness classes, events)
• No assessment needed—just choose what works best for you

Costs (Ontario Averages):

$3,500–$7,000+ per month, depending on location, suite size, and services
Care packages are typically **billed separately** from rent
100% private pay

How to Apply:

No referral needed
Contact homes directly for tours and pricing
Agreements are privately signed between the senior (or family) and the home

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Long -Term Care (LTC)	Retirement Home
Care Provided	24/7 medical and personal care	Independent or assisted living with support
Who Pays?	Partially subsidized by the Ontario government	Entirely private pay by the resident/family
Regulated By	Ministry of Long-Term Care	Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA)
How to Apply	Through Ontario Health atHome with medical assessment	Contact home directly
Waitlists?	Yes – can be long	Usually no waitlist
Best For	Seniors with complex or high medical needs	Independent seniors seeking lifestyle + support

 

How Do I Know Which Is Right?

A Long-Term Care home may be right if:

You or your loved one has advanced care needs, such as dementia, mobility limitations, or requires full-time supervision.

A Retirement Home may be right if:

You're mostly independent, want more social connection, and can afford private-pay supports like help with meals or personal care.

Still not sure? That’s what we’re here for.

Local Support in Halton and Hamilton

Choosing the right living situation is a big decision—and you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Epilogue, we support seniors and families across Halton and Hamilton in understanding options, navigating paperwork, and making confident choices.

Whether you're considering a move or just starting to explore, we’re here to guide you with compassion and clarity.

📞 Book a Free 20-Minute Consultation (289-270-7676)
📧 hello@epilogue.support
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