Questions to Ask When Visiting a Retirement Home for Someone with Parkinson’s in Ontario

Why Specific Questions Matter for Parkinson’s Care

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects motor function, balance, coordination, and often cognition. As a result, a retirement home must go beyond general senior care—it should offer:

• Medication management
• Mobility assistance
• Trained staff
• Swallowing and nutrition support
• Therapy access
• A safe, structured environment

Key Questions to Ask During Your Visit

Ask questions regarding retirement homes to our experts

1. Staff Training and Care Capabilities

• Are staff members trained in Parkinson’s disease care?
• What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day and night?
• How do you handle progression in a resident’s condition?

2. Medication and Health Monitoring

• How is medication managed and administered?
• What happens if a resident misses or refuses medication?
• Are there nurses or healthcare professionals on-site 24/7?

3. Mobility and Safety

• What safety features are in place to prevent falls?
• Are personal mobility aids provided or supported?
• Is assistance available for transferring from beds or chairs?

4. Therapy Services

• Do you offer on-site physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy?
• How often are therapy sessions scheduled?
• Are therapies included in the base cost?

5. Nutrition and Meal Support

• Are meals adapted for residents with swallowing difficulties?
• Can dietary preferences or restrictions be accommodated?
• Is feeding assistance provided if needed?

6. Social Engagement and Cognitive Support

• Are there social or cognitive stimulation programs for Parkinson’s residents?
• Are residents encouraged to participate in activities?
• Is there support for Parkinson’s-related dementia or mood changes?

7. Costs and Contracts

• What is the monthly cost, and what’s included?
• Are there additional fees for therapy or personal care?
• What happens if care needs increase significantly?

Sample Questions and What to Listen For

FAQ: 

What should I ask when touring a retirement home for someone with Parkinson’s?

Ask about staff training, medication schedules, fall prevention, therapy access, and cognitive care. Confirm that the residence can adapt as the disease progresses.

Do all retirement homes in Ontario support Parkinson’s care?

No. Only some homes offer specialized Parkinson’s programs or staff trained in neurodegenerative diseases. Always ask directly during your visit.

How much does Parkinson’s care cost in an Ontario retirement home?

Monthly costs typically range from $4,000 to $6,500, depending on location, room type, and level of care. Some specialized services may cost extra.

What services are most important for Parkinson’s residents in retirement homes?

Essential services include medication management, mobility support, meal supervision, and access to physiotherapy and speech therapy.

Can a person with advanced Parkinson’s stay in a retirement home?

It depends. Some advanced cases may require a long-term care home with full medical supervision, especially if cognitive decline or total mobility loss occurs.

When visiting a retirement home in Ontario for someone with Parkinson’s, asking the right questions helps ensure the residence can meet your loved one’s current and future care needs. Don’t hesitate to bring a checklist, request written care plans, and revisit any concerns after your initial tour.

A Parkinson’s-friendly retirement home should offer not only comfort and safety, but also the expertise to support daily challenges with compassion and consistency.

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.