Additional FAQ Questions and Answers for a Long-Term Care Facility in Ontario.

Q: Who is eligible for long-term care in Ontario?

To qualify for long-term care in Ontario, individuals must meet the following criteria:

· Be 18 years of age or older

· Possess a valid Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card

· Have care needs that cannot be safely met through home care or community-based services

Eligibility is determined through an assessment completed by a care coordinator from Ontario Health at Home.

Q: How do I apply for long-term care in Ontario?

All applications must go through Ontario Health at Home. A care coordinator will:

· Conduct an assessment to confirm eligibility

· Help you identify and rank up to five preferred long-term care homes

· Submit your application and manage placement on waitlists

Wait times vary depending on the urgency of your care needs and room availability at your chosen homes.

Q: How Much Does Long-Term Care Cost in Ontario?

All long-term care residents are required to pay a monthly co-payment fee. This fee covers accommodation, meals, and basic services.

Rates are set annually by the Ministry of Long-Term Care and vary based on room type (basic, semi-private, or private). These rates are consistent across Ontario.

Residents with limited income may qualify for a rate reduction subsidy (available only for basic rooms). This is based on annual income, not assets, and requires a completed Rate Reduction Application and a copy of your most recent Notice of Assessment.

For the most up-to-date rates, visit the Ontario government website:

Paying for Long-Term Care (https://www.ontario.ca/page/paying-long-term-care)

Q: What types of rooms are available?

Most LTC homes offer:

· Basic (Ward) – shared with multiple residents

· Semi-private – shared with one other person

· Private – single occupancy

Note: Not all room types are available in all homes.

Q: What services and care are included in a long-term care home?

Long-term care homes provide a wide range of care and services, including:

· 24/7 nursing and personal care

· All meals and snacks, with accommodations for dietary needs

· Housekeeping and personal laundry services

· Medication administration and pharmacy support

· Assistance with daily living activities such as bathing and dressing

· Therapeutic, recreational, and social programs

Additional services (e.g., dental care, foot care, or hairdressing) may be available for an extra charge.

Q: What rights do residents have in long-term care?

Residents are protected under the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021, which outlines:

· The right to be treated with dignity and respect

· The right to personal privacy

· The right to participate in decision-making about their care

· The right to receive visitors

· The right to raise concerns without fear of retaliation

Read the Residents’ Bill of Rights (https://www.ontario.ca/page/your-rights-long-term-care-home)

Q: What if I have a complaint or concern about care?

Every long-term care home must have a formal process for handling complaints. If you have a concern:

· Speak directly with a nurse, manager, or the home’s administrator

· Submit your complaint in writing or verbally

· Contact the Long-Term Care ACTION Line at 1-866-434-0144

All complaints must be taken seriously, documented, and followed up within specific timelines. Anonymous complaints are also accepted.

Q: Can I leave the home temporarily (for vacation or hospital stays)?

Yes. Residents are allowed:

· Casual absences (e.g. family outings, up to 48 hours at a time)

· Vacation absences (up to 21 days per year)

· Medical absences (for hospital stays)

During any approved absence, the resident’s bed will be held according to Ministry policy. Please notify staff in advance to coordinate your leave.

Q: Can I decorate my room?

Yes. Residents are encouraged to personalize their space to make it feel like home. You may bring:

· Photos, artwork, and decorative items

· Small pieces of furniture (space permitting)

· Electronics such as a television, radio, or lamp

All items must meet safety standards, and electrical devices must be CSA-approved. Please consult the care team before bringing large or electrical items.

Q: How are medications handled?

All prescribed medications are provided through the home’s designated pharmacy provider and are administered by qualified staff.

Residents are not permitted to self-administer medications unless it is assessed to be safe and approved as part of their care plan. Over-the-counter medications and supplements must also be approved by the medical team.

Q: What are the rules about visitors (including during outbreaks)?

Under Ontario law, residents have the right to receive visitors, and long-term care homes must support safe and meaningful visits while balancing health and safety.

Regular Visiting Guidelines:

· Families and friends are encouraged to visit often.

· Most visits take place between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM, but exceptions can be made in special circumstances — just speak with our care team.

· Visitors must follow any current infection prevention protocols (e.g., hand hygiene, masks, screening, etc.).

During Infectious Disease Outbreaks:

· Visitor policies may be temporarily modified to protect residents.

· However, Essential Caregivers (designated by the resident or substitute decision-maker) are still allowed to visit, even during outbreaks, as per MOHLTC guidelines.

Palliative and End-of-Life Care:

For residents receiving palliative or end-of-life care, families may visit at any time of day or night, regardless of outbreak status. We recognize the importance of being present with your loved one during this time and will do everything we can to support a comforting and peaceful environment.