Care Paths

Navigating care can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that Ontario offers several flexible options to support seniors and families. Each path provides unique benefits depending on your needs, level of care, and preferences. Here’s a simple overview to help you understand what’s available. 

Government-Funded Home Care 

Through Ontario Health atHome, eligible clients can receive personal support, nursing, and therapy services at no cost. Care Coordinators complete an assessment and create a plan based on your needs. These services are helpful for medical support, short-term recovery, or ongoing assistance at home.

Family-Managed Home Care (FMHC) 

FMHC gives families the ability to hire and manage their own caregivers using government funding. This option offers maximum choice and control, ideal for clients with complex needs or those who want consistency in who provides their daily care. 

ALC & Transition Support 

For individuals in hospital waiting to return home or transition to another level of care, ALC (Alternate Level of Care) supports help bridge the gap. These services focus on safe discharge planning and may include short-term PSW support, transitional care programs, and hospital-to-home assistance.

Private Home Care Services 

Private home care offers complete flexibility. Families can choose the type of support, the number of hours, and the caregiver that fits best. Services may include personal support, nursing, respite care, companionship, homemaking, and 24/7 or overnight care. Private care is perfect for filling gaps or adding additional support beyond government-funded hours. 

Retirement, Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities 

Retirement, assisted living, and memory care communities offer safe, independent housing with support as needs change. Seniors enjoy private suites, meals, housekeeping, activities, and 24/7 staff. Assisted living adds help with daily tasks like medication, bathing, and mobility while promoting independence, ideal for older adults seeking a social, maintenance-free lifestyle with flexible care.

Long-Term Care (LTC) Homes  

Long-Term Care homes provide 24/7 nursing, personal care, and clinical support for seniors with complex medical or cognitive needs. These facilities offer medication management, dementia care, rehabilitation, meals, and daily living assistance in a secure environment. LTC is best suited for individuals who require full-time, medically supervised care.