Parkinson’s disease is progressive and lifelong—making early planning for long-term care a key part of protecting a loved one’s safety and quality of life. While many individuals live independently or with home care in the early stages, advancing symptoms may require specialized long-term care solutions.
Why Long-Term Care Planning Is Important for Parkinson’sAs Parkinson’s progresses, individuals may experience:
Planning ahead allows families to explore their options, avoid crisis decision-making, and ensure the right level of support is available when needed.
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Start researching well before full-time care is needed, ideally during the early to mid stages of Parkinson’s. Consider these signs that long-term care may soon be necessary:
Best for: Seniors in mid-stage Parkinson’s who need help with daily living but do not require full medical care.
Services include:
Privately paid: Typically costs $3,500 to $6,500/month.
Best for: Advanced Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s dementia, or full-time support needs.
Services include:
Government subsidized: Requires an eligibility assessment (via Home and Community Care Support Services in Ontario).
For individuals with Parkinson’s who develop dementia or major cognitive decline. These units are secure, offer tailored therapy, and have staff trained in behavioural management.
Offered in both retirement and long-term care settings.
| Type of Facility | Best For | Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement Home | Mid-stage Parkinson’s with daily support needs | Private pay ($3,500–$6,500/month) |
| Long-Term Care Home | Advanced-stage Parkinson’s requiring 24/7 care | Government subsidized (income-based co-pay) |
| Memory Care Unit | Parkinson’s with dementia or behavioural symptoms | Private or public, depending on setting |
| Home with Live-In Caregiver | Advanced-stage care at home with full support | Private (often $8,000–$20,000/month) |
Get a Clinical Assessment
Contact your local health authority or Home and Community Care Support Services (Ontario) for a care needs evaluation.
Visit Multiple Facilities
Tour both retirement and long-term care homes to compare staff training, services, and safety measures.
Ask About Parkinson’s-Specific Care
Look for homes with physiotherapy access, trained staff, and medication support protocols.
Understand the Financial Side
Research private vs. public funding, available tax credits, and subsidies for long-term care.
Involve the Resident in the Process
Early conversations and inclusion in the decision-making process help reduce anxiety and resistance.
When daily activities, medication management, or safety cannot be maintained at home, and when caregivers are overwhelmed or 24/7 supervision is needed.
Long-term care homes are partially subsidized by provincial governments. Retirement homes and private memory care are typically out-of-pocket expenses.
Yes. You can begin the application process before an emergency arises by contacting your province’s care coordination service (e.g., HCCSS in Ontario).
Yes. Some retirement and long-term care facilities in Canada offer dedicated memory care units with staff trained in both Parkinson’s and dementia care.
Care may include physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, fall prevention programs, and adapted recreation—depending on the facility.
Planning for long-term care is one of the most important steps families can take when navigating Parkinson’s disease. Whether your loved one is in the early stages or approaching more advanced symptoms, understanding the available care solutions in Canada will help ensure dignity, safety, and quality of life.
Don't hesitate to contact us at 343 309 5289 or online. We can help you choose the right establishment for you and assist you in your search.
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