The new rates for long-term care are out, and much like everything else these days, prices are going up.
New long-term care rates beginning July 1, 2024
It's typical for long-term care rates to nudge up every year. On July 1, 2024 the monthly rate for a basic room in long-term care is going up $49.58 to $2,036.40. Semi private rooms see a $59.92 bump up to $2,455.24. And private rooms see the biggest increase of $70.87 to $2,909.36.
Long-term care rate reductions
Rate reductions continue to be available to low-income individuals living in a basic room, or partners living together in a two-bed semi-private room that has been redesignated as basic accommodation.
From the Ministry of Long-Term Care
All residents receiving a rate reduction should re-apply for a reduction in the basic co-payment rate for the 2024-25 cycle, beginning on July 1, 2024. Staff at your LTC home will provide you with the application form and will help you to submit your application to the Ministry of Long-Term Care.
We’re proud to announce that Elderado has been selected as one of 23 innovators awarded funding through the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI)’s new Ignite program. This prestigious initiative supports early-stage Canadian companies working to improve aging and brain health, with a strong focus on dementia care, caregiver support, and care coordination.
As part of the Ignite cohort, Elderado will receive funding and expert guidance to accelerate our mission: helping families in Ontario compare retirement homes and long-term care homes with clarity and confidence.
What is CABHI Ignite?
CABHI Ignite is a national innovation program powered by Baycrest, a global leader in brain health and dementia care. The Ignite program invests in promising early-stage solutions that tackle some of the biggest challenges facing older adults in Canada today.
From AI-powered diagnostic tools to culturally safe dementia support platforms, CABHI is supporting a new generation of innovators. In total, $2.6 million in funding has been awarded to 23 organizations across six innovation themes:
Aging at Home
Caregiver Support
Care Coordination and Navigation
Cognitive and Mental Health
Financial Health and Wellness
Women’s Brain Health + FemTech
How Elderado Supports Dementia Care in Ontario
Elderado is a free online platform that simplifies the process of finding the right elder care option—whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a hospital discharge. We help families:
Compare retirement homes and long-term care homes in Ontario
Filter homes by language of care, cultural preferences, and services
Access inspection reports, video tours, menus, and activity calendars
Connect directly with homes that meet your needs
This grant recognizes Elderado’s potential to improve care navigation for people living with dementia and their families—especially when language or cultural needs make the process even harder.
Our work supports families who are often under pressure to make fast decisions without enough information. Elderado provides tools and insights that make it easier to choose the right care home with confidence.
What the Grant Will Support
With CABHI’s funding and expert support, Elderado will expand our platform’s ability to:
Highlight homes with dementia care programs
Make it easier to search by cultural and language preferences
Improve the experience for families from diverse communities across Ontario
Strengthen Elderado’s role as a trusted resource in dementia care navigation
We’re especially excited to work with CABHI’s Leap validation platform to incorporate direct feedback from people living with dementia, caregivers, and health professionals.
Why This Matters
Dementia affects over 600,000 Canadians—and that number is growing. For many families, the search for elder care is complicated by urgent timelines, language barriers, and a lack of transparent information. Elderado was built to address that problem.
With CABHI’s support, we’ll continue making elder care more accessible, inclusive, and transparent for all Ontarians.
Amica Taunton is a new retirement home in Whitby, Ontario that offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care.
Amica Retirement Homes
Anytime I've walked into an Amica retirement home it's felt like luxury. You can see it in the premium finishes, and feel it in the way spaces are designed and decorated – and Amica Taunton is no exception.
The Food at Amica Taunton
The only food I've eaten at Amica Taunton are appetizers at networking events, and they knock those out of the park, so all indications are that they've earned their reputation for great food. Plus the menu looks great, and a resident I was chatting with raved about the salmon and creme brule.
Location – Just east of Brock Street on Taunton Road
Amica Taunton is in a great location if you're mobile. There's a Starbucks and Tim Hortons within walking distance, as well as all sorts of other shops and restaurants. Amica Taunton is on a fairly busy road – Taunton Road, just east of Brock Street – but they've orientated the retirement home to face away from the road, so it feels quite calm and peaceful at the main entrance.
The Rooms at Amica Taunton
Inside the suites, there's all the obvious things – they have the rooms staged beautifully with well thoughtout layouts. If I'm getting down to it, there's 3 things about the room that stand out to me.
Roll-in shower. This is a big plus for me! If I am looking at a retirement suite for myself, I want one with a shower that does not have any sort of step or lip. I've been sore after a long run and had some trouble getting into the shower, so I can see how this can be a problem down the line. This could help me maintain independence.
Balcony. My wife and I were those people who actually used their tiny condo balcony and loved it. A suite with a balcony is definitely a plus.
In-suite laundry. I've always felt like where I do my laundry is my home, and I think having in-suite laundry would help me transitioning to a retirement home – making it my new home. This wouldn't be a deal breaker, but definitely bonus points that Amica Taunton has it!
The price for a suite at Amica Taunton
Let's call a spade a spade, Amica is known as a premium retirement home. If you're looking for the least expensive retirement home, it's not likely going to be an Amica home. But I was surprised to find out they currently have studios starting from $3,995* – it's not the cheapest option, but it's competitive. I don't know the terms, but if I was looking for independent living somewhere in Durham, I'd call Amica Taunton to find out.
**(As of the time of original publishing on March 16, 2025)*
What to Look for During a Retirement Home Tour: A Guide for Ontario Families
Introduction
Looking for a retirement home—whether for yourself or a loved one—can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, each with different services, amenities, and pricing. That’s why taking a guided tour is one of the best ways to see if a home is the right fit.
But how do you know what to look for? What questions should you ask? And how do you make sure you’re making the best decision? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before, during, and after your retirement home tour—so you can feel confident in your choice.
1. Getting Ready: What to Ask Before the Tour
Before you even step inside a retirement home, it’s smart to get some basic info upfront. A quick phone call or email can help you narrow down your list and make sure you’re only visiting places that meet your needs. You can contact every retirement home through their page on Elderado.
Key Questions to Ask Before Booking a Tour:
✔ What types of care and services are offered? (Independent living? Assisted living? Memory care?)
✔ What’s included in the monthly fee, and what costs extra?
✔ Are there currently suites available?
✔ What happens if care needs change over time?
✔ Can I talk to current residents about their experience?
2. What to Look for During the Tour
First impressions matter! When you walk into a retirement home, trust your instincts. Some retirement homes feel more luxiorious, and others more homey. Some homes have an active environment, and others a slower pace. Does it feel welcoming? Do staff members seem friendly and engaged? Do residents look happy?
Beyond the vibe, here are some important things to keep an eye on:
Physical Environment
Is the building clean and well-maintained? No weird smells or signs of neglect?
Is the bathroom, bedroom, and doorways wide enough for mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs?
Do the suites feel comfortable with good natural lighting and emergency call systems?
Is there outdoor space for fresh air and relaxation?
Staff & Community Feel
Do staff seem genuinely friendly and attentive?
Are residents socializing and participating in activities?
Does the home have a warm and welcoming atmosphere?
Safety & Security
What emergency systems are in place?
Is there 24/7 on-site staff?
Are entrances and exits monitored and secure?
✔ Questions to Ask the Staff:
How do you handle medical emergencies?
What’s the staff-to-resident ratio? What about at night?
How do you accommodate changing health needs?
3. Checking Out the Lifestyle & Services
Every retirement home has its own personality. Some are big on social events and fitness programs, while others focus more on relaxed, independent living. Think about what kind of lifestyle you (or your loved one) would enjoy!
Dining & Food
Are meals fresh, healthy, and customizable?
Can residents choose meal times and menu options?
Are snacks and beverages available throughout the day?
✔ Questions to Ask:
Can I see a sample menu?
How do you handle dietary restrictions?
Can family and friends join for meals?
Activities & Social Life
Are there organized activities, clubs, and events?
Is there a calendar of social, recreational, and educational programs?
Do they arrange outings and day trips?
✔ Questions to Ask:
What kinds of activities do most residents participate in?
Do you offer transportation for shopping or medical appointments?
Can I sit in on an event or activity to see what it’s like?
Health & Wellness Support
Is there on-site medical staff like nurses or physiotherapists?
Can residents get help with medications or mobility support?
How often are care needs reassessed?
✔ Questions to Ask:
What’s included in the base care package?
What happens if someone needs more care later?
Do you offer short-term stays for trial visits?
4. Understanding the Costs & Fine Print
Once you’ve found a home you like, it’s time to talk money. Get a clear picture of all costs upfront so there are no surprises later.
Key Cost Considerations:
What’s the monthly rent?
What services are included vs. extra?
Are there move-in fees or deposits?
How often do rates increase?
✔ Questions to Ask:
Can I get a full breakdown of costs?
What’s your policy on move-outs?
What are some costs that sometimes take residents by surprise?
5. After the Tour: Making a Decision
Once you’ve toured a few places, take some time to compare your notes. Ask yourself:
✅ Did the home feel welcoming and comfortable?
✅ Do I trust the staff to provide great care?
✅ Does it fit within my budget?
✅ Can I see myself (or my loved one) being happy here?
If you’re still unsure, consider booking a second tour at a different time of day to see how it feels. You can also use Elderado.ca to compare all the retirement homes you're considering.
Conclusion: Let Elderado Help You Find the Right Fit
Choosing the right retirement home is a big decision, but with the right questions and a good tour, you can find a place that feels just right. Elderado makes it easy to compare retirement homes in Ontario, helping you find the perfect fit based on location, services, and cost.
Start your search today at www.elderado.ca and take the next step toward finding the best retirement home for you or your loved one!
The senior care industry in Ontario wouldn’t function without the dedication, skill, and compassion of women. Across long-term care and retirement homes, women are the backbone of the sector, making up the majority of personal support workers (PSWs), nurses, and social workers who provide daily care and life-enhancing services to older adults.
Did you know?
96% of personal support workers in Ontario are women.
91% of nurses in the province are women.
87% of social workers—who provide crucial emotional and practical support—are women.
These professionals don’t just show up for work; they show up with empathy, resilience, and a deep commitment to the well-being of seniors.
Beyond Caregiving: Women Driving Innovation in Senior Care
While frontline caregiving is essential, women are also the visionaries behind transformative initiatives in the senior care space. They are leading innovations that improve the quality of life for older adults in Ontario:
🔹 Tina Mavriyannakis, Founder of The Smile Room – A champion for senior oral health, Tina is ensuring thousands of older adults have access to much-needed dental care, preventing pain and serious health complications.
🔹 Mallory McGrath, Founder of Viive Planning – Estate and end-of-life planning can be overwhelming, but Mallory is changing the conversation and approach, making it easier for families to prepare for the future with dignity and clarity.
🔹 Jennifer McCrae, Founder of Soul Transitions – Helping families navigate grief and end-of-life transitions, Jennifer provides support and guidance during some of life’s most difficult moments.
These women are reshaping how we think about aging, caregiving, and the end-of-life journey. Their work ensures that seniors receive the respect, care, and support they deserve.
The Strength of Women in Senior Care
Despite the progress society has made, one truth remains: when it comes to answering the call for strength, compassion, and leadership in senior care, women step up—again and again.
From the PSWs providing hands-on care to the entrepreneurs revolutionizing elder services, women continue to drive meaningful change in Ontario’s long-term care and retirement home sectors.
Celebrating Women in Senior Care
On this International Women’s Day, let’s take a moment to recognize, support, and celebrate the incredible women who are making a difference in the lives of seniors. Their work is not just essential—it’s life-changing.
They show up during some of life’s toughest moments—offering support, guidance, and sometimes just a reassuring presence when things feel impossible. And yet, they rarely get the appreciation they deserve.
Well, we’re here to change that—one handwritten letter and one Tim Hortons gift card at a time!
We’re sending 100 handwritten letters, each with a Tim Hortons gift card, to 100 amazing social workers. And the best part? YOU get to decide who gets them!
How It Works (Super Easy, We Promise!)
If you know a social worker who deserves a little surprise in their mailbox, here’s what to do:
Fill out the form with the name of a social worker you want to nominate.
Don’t know their name? No stress—just tell us where they work, and we’ll do our best detective work to find them.
The first 100 names submitted will get a handwritten letter and a Tim Hortons gift card. Boom. Instant day-maker!
Why Are We Doing This? (Because Social Workers Are Awesome!)
Let’s be real—social workers do some of the hardest, most heartwarming, and most emotionally intense jobs out there. They help people through life’s messiest moments, and they do it all with way too little recognition (and probably way too much caffeine ☕).
A simple letter and a cup of coffee won’t change the world, but it might just brighten someone’s day. And honestly, if there’s anyone who deserves a little surprise appreciation, it’s a social worker.
The Magic of a Little ‘Thank You’
Did you know that feeling appreciated makes people happier, less stressed, and more motivated? True story. And in a field like social work—where burnout is way too common—a little unexpected kindness can go a LONG way.
That’s why we’re inviting YOU to be part of this mission. Let’s make sure 100 social workers feel the love!
Be a Part of This Feel-Good Movement! 🚀
We won’t stop until 100 social workers have received a well-deserved thank-you. But we need your help to make it happen!
⏳ Deadline: Until we reach 100 names or March 9th, 11:59 PM 📢 Share this post! Send to a friend, a coworker, or someone who knows a social worker who deserves this surprise.
A small act of kindness can go a long way—so let’s do this! 💌☕
On January 17 and 18, Chartwell hosted a National Open House event – and I crashed it!
Friday
I set out to hit as many Chartwell retirement homes as I could. Along the way I made a video at each home I toured to give you a peek inside, and tell you more about retirement living.
My planned route on Friday started at Chartwell Wynfield in North Oshawa. From there I'd head east to Chartwell Bowmanville Creek in Bowmanville, before working my way back west. I'd hit Chartwell Colonial, Chartwell Harwood, and finish my day off at Chartwell Pickering City Centre. It was an ambitious plan – I'd never toured more than 2 retirement homes in a day, but I figured I could manage.
Chartwell Wynfield – Options to check out a retirement home
Suites start at $4,521/month (at the time of writing)
Studios, one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, and two-bedroom suites
Amenities include an indoor pool, indoor putting green, demonstration kitchen, and cafe
At Chartwell Bowmanville Creek I shared 3 things to keep an eye out for when you're looking at retirement homes:
Do staff acknowledge residents? Homes where staff acknowledge the residents when they pass in hallways tend to have a warmer feel and higher resident satisfaction. And bonus points if staff acknowledge residents by name.
Are there spaces outside your room where you can see yourself spending time? A lot of residents are downsizing, the transition to a smaller living area is a lot smoother if there's other places in the retirement home where you're comfortable.
Are activity calendars and menus posted throughout the home up to date? It's not the end of the world if they're not, but it can be a sign the home lets the details fall through the cracks.
And don't forget to trust your gut. This is your home, if it doesn't feel right, keep looking – you can always circle back.
Suites starting from $4,226/month (at the time of writing)
Studios, one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, and two-bedroom suites
Amenities include a library, fitness room, pub & lounge, and courtsey van
At Chartwell Harwood I tackled one of the most popular topics when it comes to retirement living – PRICE!
Not all retirement home prices are created equal.
Some homes have a la carte pricing, while others are all inclusive.
Typically, as your care needs increase, so does the price.
You may be able to offset some of these costs if you qualify for free home care from Ontario Health atHome, but that's likely not going to be enough – whether you're in a retirement home or private residence.
I want to give props to Chartwell for including prices on their website. Only about 1/3 of retirement homes do this. I think public price transparency should be required across the board.
Suites start at $3,288/month (at the time of writing)
Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites
Amenities include a library, fitness studio, activities and games room, and a tranquil backyard.
At Chartwell Barton I went over the difference between long-term care and retirement homes.
Long-term care is subsidized by the provincial government and typically cheaper, while retirement homes are private care and costs go up as care needs rise.
Most long-term care has a sterile feeling, while some retirement homes can rival high end real estate.
Long-term care has long waitlists, while retirement homes average less than 85% occupancy.
Alexander Muir – Are you in the same cohort as the other residents?
Amenities include a lounge, theatre, billiards room, and patio
At Alexander Muir I talked about the importance of being in the same cohort as your fellow residents to get the most out of retirement living.
Leigh and Lori from Discerning Seniors are big advocates of this, and they were the ones who brought it to my attention.
If you're active or social, you'll probably have more fun with other active and social residents. If that's you, you should have a look at an activity calendar and the amenities. Find something you can see yourself doing if you moved in, and ask the salesperson if you can drop in and take part. I bet they say yes. I get it, this can be a little outside our comfort zone, but if you're serious about moving in, it's worth it to get an idea of the neighbours and amenities.
Chartwell Hollandview Trail – Do you know about the Residents Bill of Rights?
A bit about Chartwell Hollandview Trail in Aurora.
Independent living and assisted living
Suites starting from $5,450/month (at the time of writing)
Studios, one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, and two-bedroom suites
Amenities include a country kitchen, a variety of common areas, a grand piano, and movie theatre
At Chartwell Hollandview Trail I talked about the Residents Bill of Rights – it goes hand-in-hand with the RHRA. There's a few rights I think are worth highlighting:
The right to apply for publicly funded care.
The right receive care from an external care provider.
The right to have his or her choice of care services provided by staff who are suitably qualified and trained.
The right not to be restrained except in accordance with the law.
The right to have his or her lifestyle and choices respected as long as nobody crosses a reasonable line.
Nothing crazy, but it's important to know your rights.
Chartwell Park Place – Questions to ask on a retirement home tour
Suites start at $2,995/month (at the time of writing)
Studio and one-bedroom suites
Amenities include a library, movie room, lounge, and pub
At Chartwell Park Place I touched on having questions prepared when you tour a retirement home. It's easy to get caught up in the moment during a tour, so it helps to have questions prepared when you come in for a tour.
Do I have quality of life questions? Medical concerns (both in the short term and long run)?
The more open you can be, the better the salesperson can help. Asking questions is gonna help you find the retirement home that's right for you.
On February 22, 2025 I got to attend the A Night To Remember Gala hosted by A Rose For Grandma. There was good food, great people, and my favourite part was the caregivers who shared their stories. It was both inspiring and humbling to hear so many people share their why!
Dementia support in the BIPOC community
A Rose For Grandma Wellness Hub is working to improve dementia care for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) communities, who often face significant challenges in accessing high-quality care. Barriers such as limited access to healthcare, transportation difficulties, and language differences contribute to delayed diagnosis and reduced access to support. Cultural stigma around dementia can also discourage families from seeking help, while BIPOC communities are often underrepresented in dementia research, limiting the development of culturally appropriate resources and care strategies.
A Rose For Grandma Wellness Hub is taking a collaborative approach, working with individuals living with dementia, their families, healthcare providers, governments, and other organizations. The goal is to create culturally responsive care that reflects the unique beliefs and needs of BIPOC communities, while also advocating for better representation in research and improved access to services. By addressing these gaps, the Wellness Hub aims to improve the overall quality of life for people living with dementia and their families.
Supporting local, community charities
I think the Alzheimer's Society, Heart & Stroke Foundation, and other big charities do incredible, important work, but we can't overlook local charities in the community that are likely underfunded, but sure can stretch a dollar.
What was clear from A Night To Remember was the tangible impact A Rose For Grandma is able to have.
There's a million worthy causes. The next time you are looking for a charity to support, don't shy away from taking a look at smaller, local organizations.
They might not have the name recognition or the best website, but you may find they're having an oversized impact on a shoestring budget.
Aspira Retirement Living hosted an open house event yesterday – I checked it out!
Before yesterday I hadn't spent a ton of time in Aspira retirement homes, so I was excited to find out they were hosting a National Open House event on February 22, 2025.
But Aspira, I do have to call out that it's got to be easier for people to know you have an open house going on. If you posted about it on your social media accounts I couldn't find it.
My original plan was to start at Aspira Douglas Crossing Retirement Living in Uxbridge, and then work my way south, but plans changed when I found out they're under outbreak. Instead I decided I would start at Aspira Empire Crossing Retirement Living in Port Hope, and then make my way west.
Aspira Empire Crossing Retirement Living in Port Hope
Aspira Empire Crossing retirement home in Port Hope, Ontario offers independent living. Suites start at $3,990/month.
A few notes from my tour:
Pet friendly
Every suite has a balcony or walk out
Smaller, intimate home, with good sized suites
Small, but engaging activity space
About 10 year old building
Independent living – need to be independent, or cognitively and physically able to ask for help
After a quick stop at McDonalds – for whaver reason my guilty pleasure on these big retirement home days, I was off to Aspira Traditions of Durham in Oshawa.
Aspira Traditions of Durham retirement home in Oshawa
Aspira Traditions of Durham offers independent living and assisted living. Studio suites in independent living start at $3,425/month.
A few notes from my tour:
Big spacious dining room
2 seatings at meal times
South facing suites on upper floors have a view of green space and Lake Ontario
A lot of residents were actively engaged in open house activities
Wide hallways so 2 people in wheelchairs can easily pass each other
Spacious bathrooms compared to many retirement homes
April 1, 2023
On April 1, 2023, a 79 year-old resident died after being locked out of Traditions of Durham overnight. 3 ex-employees and the retirement home itself have been charged with criminal negligence causing death. This is an incredibly tragic event, and my thoughts are with the deceased and their loved ones.
I don't have any insights into this case beyond what has been widely reported in the news (for example CBC). But my understanding is that there have been widespread changes to the care and management teams. One of those new team members is Razeea Khan, Sales Advisor at Traditions of Durham. She joined less than a year ago. Razeea and I have crossed paths a dozen times at networking events. I would trust my loved one would be safe in a home where Razeea worked. You need to have a level of trust with any retirement home, long-term care home, or home care provider, and I'd have more trust knowing Razeea is there. Take that for what you will.
Aspira Lynde Creek Gardens retirement home in Whitby
Aspira Lynde Creek Gardens offers independent living. Studio suites start at $2,985/month.
A few notes from my tour:
Nestled in a private community, surrounded by life lease townhomes
Coffee shops, grocery stores, and more within a 10-15 minute walk
Recently renovated with a warm, open aesthetic when you walk in the front doors
Backs onto a ravine with walking trails close by
Location, location, location
For me personally, there's a lot Aspira Lynde Creek Gardens has going for it. I love the location. If you drive, you could pick up your groceries, drop into the LCBO, grab a coffee, play pickleball, and walk some great trails whenever you want, AND only have to fill your gas tank 4 times a year. But the even bigger benefit of it is that for as long as I can walk, all that stuff is close enough that I can make a morning out of walking there. I like the idea of retiring somewhere peaceful, but having most of what I need within a long walk, and in that maner Aspira Lynde Creek Gardens delivers.
Next Open House Event
I don't know when the next big retirement home open house event will be, I'll keep my ear to the ground. But if you come across an open house for a retirement home in your area, check it out. It doesn't hurt to have an idea of what retirement living can look like – it might surprise you.
The Ministry of Long-Term Care in Ontario is planning to test a new system to help people find spots in long-term care (LTC) homes that match their culture, religion, language, or ethnicity, and there is an open call for comment HERE. This project, called the Long-Term Care Homes Cultural Pilot Project, will try to make it easier for people to get into homes where they feel more at home culturally.
Some LTC homes in Ontario focus on serving specific cultural or religious groups. But recently, these homes have seen fewer residents who match the culture they aim to support, and fewer spots are available that meet applicants' cultural needs. This makes it harder for these homes to offer the cultural, religious, and language support their residents need.
The current system puts people on a waiting list for LTC homes based on how urgently they need a spot. In this pilot project, the Ministry wants to test a new way of organizing these waitlists for people in crisis (those in category 1). For the homes selected to participate, people on the crisis waiting list who share the culture or religion that the home primarily serves could be prioritized, even if others on the list are also in crisis.
To make this pilot work, the Ministry would change the rules for ranking applicants. In designated homes, people with an urgent need for care would still be ranked first, but if two or more people have the same level of urgency, the applicant who matches the home’s cultural focus would get priority.
The goal is to see if this new ranking system can help improve access to culturally appropriate long-term care for Ontarians.
CLICK HERE to read the full proposal or to comment. Comments are open until November 26.
