Long-term care facilities licensed and funded by the Department of Health and Wellness provide services for people who need ongoing care; either on a long-term basis (permanent placement) or short-term basis (respite care).
There are two types of long-term care facilities available, nursing homes and residential care facilities.
Nursing homes are important options for people who have difficulty performing everyday tasks such as, dressing, bathing and toileting. Nursing home placement is appropriate for people who are medically stable but have nursing needs that cannot be met through home care.
When Home Care does not meet the needs of a person and nursing home care is not required, a residential care facility may be the solution. Residential care facilities provide people with personal care, supervision and accommodation in a safe and supportive environment. (People living in residential care facilities must have the ability to self-evacuate in the event of an emergency.)
Nursing homes provide nursing and personal care on a 24-hour basis including care given under the supervision of a nurse, administration of medication and assistance with daily living. Other services may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, recreation, and those provided by a Social Worker.
Residential care facilities provide assistance with personal care such as, bathing and dressing, and reminders about daily routines. Personal care and supervision are provided by Residential Care Workers who are available on site at all times.
For both nursing homes and residential care facilities, staff administer all medications for residents. The facilities have medical advisors but residents may continue to visit their family doctor. Residents usually have private bedrooms or share with one other person but common spaces include dining and living areas, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. Residents are served three meals per day and snacks. Menus consider residents’ preferences, accommodate special diets, and follow Canada’s Food Guide.
To apply for residency in a nursing home or a residential care facility, contact Continuing Care, toll-free at 1-800-225-7225 to find out about the application process, to arrange for a Care Coordinator to assess your care needs, and to identify the best method of having your needs met.
Long-term care costs are shared by you, as the resident, and the provincial government. The Department of Health and Wellness pays for the health care costs, and you pay your accommodation costs and personal expenses.
The Department of Health and Wellness sets standard accommodation charges annually. Those who are able to pay the full standard accommodation charge are not required to complete a financial assessment. Those who cannot pay the standard accommodation charge can apply to have their rate reduced through an income based financial assessment
Licensed - Approved Facilities
Nursing home and residential care facilities are inspected to make sure they meet about 400 different requirements. Inspection reports list any areas where inspectors found violations.
Learn more: Long-term care licensing and inspection reports
Long Term Care facilities must report monthly the number of residents with pressure injuries. This information is posted at the end of July, October, January and April of each year.
Data and more information about pressure injuries is available on the Pressure Injury in Long Term Care public reporting page.
The Department of Health and Wellness, Continuing Care Division has created policies and monitoring standards to ensure that there is a consistent quality of care for those who need services outside of the hospital, in their home, or in the community.
Visit Policies and Standards page.
To apply, call Continuing Care, at 1-800-225-7225.
Download Long Term Care in PDF format.
Télécharger Établissements de soins de longue durée en format PDF.
Download Entering Long Term Care in PDF format.
Télécharger Admission à un établissement de soins de longue durée en format PDF.
Download Paying Long Term Care in PDF format.
Télécharger Coûts des soins de longue durée en format PDF.
Download Long Term Care Rates Schedule in PDF format.
Télécharger Barême des frais pour les soins de longue durée en format PDF.
View Nursing Homes and Residential Care Facilities directories (PDF)
Information for Health Care Provider