What Ontario Families Should Know About Sleep Studies for Seniors in Retirement Homes


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Many Ontario seniors experience signs of poor sleep, such as loud snoring, gasping during the night, morning headaches, or excessive daytime fatigue. These may point to sleep apnea, a serious condition that increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, falls, and memory loss. A sleep study, also called a polysomnography, is the gold standard for diagnosing sleep disorders in the elderly. Fortunately, in Ontario, sleep studies are widely accessible many are even covered by OHIP when ordered by a doctor.

How Sleep Studies Work for Seniors in Ontario

There are two main types of sleep studies available to seniors in Ontario:

  1. In-lab Sleep Study (Polysomnography): Conducted overnight at a sleep clinic or hospital.

  2. Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT): A portable diagnostic kit used in the comfort of the senior’s retirement home suite.

Both types monitor breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep stages to determine if sleep apnea or other disorders are present.

Sleep Study Options for Seniors in Ontario Retirement Homes

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Type of StudyWhere It HappensBest For
In-Lab Polysomnography Sleep clinic or hospital (overnight stay) Seniors with multiple health conditions or complex symptoms
Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT) Retirement home suite Mobility-limited seniors or simple sleep apnea diagnosis
Split-Night Study Clinic (diagnosis + CPAP trial in one night) Seniors who need immediate CPAP assessment
Titration Study Clinic-based with CPAP or BiPAP Fine-tuning pressure settings for diagnosed patients

How to Arrange a Sleep Study for a Senior in a Retirement Home

  1. Visit the family doctor or geriatrician
    They will evaluate symptoms and issue a referral to a sleep specialist.

  2. Choose the right test format
    For seniors who cannot travel easily, a home sleep test is often ideal.

  3. Coordinate with retirement home staff
    Ensure caregivers are aware of the date, device usage, and any follow-up care needed.

  4. Get results and diagnosis
    Sleep specialists analyze the data and recommend a treatment plan—most often CPAP therapy.

  5. Discuss CPAP support with the retirement home
    Some residences offer help with setup, cleaning, and monitoring of equipment. Others may require family involvement.

What’s Covered by OHIP in Ontario?

  • Doctor consultation

  • Sleep study referral and analysis

  • In-lab or home-based test equipment (if referred by a physician)

Note: CPAP machines and supplies are not covered by OHIP, but may be subsidized through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP).

FAQ: 

Can a sleep study be done inside a retirement home?

Yes. Home Sleep Apnea Tests (HSAT) are designed for use in familiar settings like retirement homes. They are convenient for seniors with mobility or transportation challenges.

How do I know if my parent needs a sleep study?

If they snore loudly, wake up gasping, seem excessively tired during the day, or show signs of cognitive decline, it’s worth discussing with their doctor.

Do I need a doctor’s referral for a sleep study in Ontario?

Yes. A sleep study—whether at home or in a clinic—requires a physician’s referral for OHIP coverage.

Is the sleep study stressful for seniors?

Not usually. Home-based studies are non-invasive, and in-lab studies involve only one overnight stay in a calm, supervised environment.

Will the retirement home help with setup for a home sleep test?

Many assisted living residences will help with setup if informed in advance. Always coordinate with the care team.

Sleep studies play a crucial role in diagnosing sleep apnea and other disorders that impact senior health. In Ontario, the process is accessible, covered by OHIP, and increasingly adapted for retirement home settings. If you’re concerned about your loved one’s breathing during sleep, don’t wait—early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and a better quality of life.

Don't hesitate to contact us at 343 309 5289. We can help you choose the right establishment for you and assist you in your search.

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