If you suspect that you or your loved one might benefit from some additional care now or in the immediate future, it is also best to explore your options early in the process. The health care options that are needed could affect your housing choices and if you are looking to the government subsidized model of any of these choices, you will require an assessment.
Home Care / Supportive Living
People that need a little support with their daily living can often live independently with home care coming in to support them. The home care provider might be subsidized through the government, or you can choose to pay privately for the support.
In Supportive Living Accommodations, the resident will typically receive their care from staff that work on site. A lot of retirement residences offer Supportive Living within their Independent Living buildings.
One of the biggest differences between this and “designated supportive living” is scheduled care vs. unscheduled care. In Supportive Living, the support is delivered at predetermined times. In higher levels of care, the nursing team is onsite 24/7 to support on call as required.
Designated Supportive Living
(Now known as Continuing Care Home Type B)
This level of care ensures that there is 24-hour a day personal care provided by LPNs and HCAs. Case management and specialty services are available on a scheduled onsite, on-call or virtual basis based on resident’s care needs.
The buildings are specifically designed with common areas and features, including private space and a safe, secure and barrier-free environment. Type B accommodations will also provide services such as meals, housekeeping, and recreational activities.
Memory Care
(Also known as Continuing Care Home Type B – secure space, formerly Designated Supportive Living Dementia)
Memory care options are very similar to Designated Supportive Living (Continuing Care Home Type A), but they are secure spaces with programs specifically designed to enhance quality of life for folks living with dementia.
Elevated, private pay Memory Care experiences are also offered in the capital region if you have the financial resources. They can be costly, but they are often exceptional experiences with highly trained staff specializing in dementia care. In private pay situations, while you don’t need a government assessment, you will need to meet with their Care Manager to determine if your loved one will benefit from the programming.
Long Term Care
(Now known as Continuing Care Home Type A)
This level of care is typically for individuals with really complex care needs or in advanced stages of dementia. The buildings tend to feel a little more clinical in nature. There is 24 hour care, housekeeping, recreational programming and meals provided.
Long Term Care is subsidized by Alberta Health Services, but like the other levels of care, there are also a few exceptional private pay options available in the Edmonton area.
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