Long-term care versus retirement communities

As you begin your search for senior living options you might wonder, ‘what is the difference between Long Term Care and retirement communities?’

Retirement communities

Simply put, the difference is mere verbiage. A retirement residence is typically an independent living community that offers care, meals, housekeeping services and activities. This should not be confused with a Long-Term Care (LTC) residence.

Long-Term Care

LTC usually caters to people with the highest care needs. Retirement residences are often, but not always, private pay operations. An LTC residence in Ontario is subsidized by the provincial government.

A shifting industry

As a whole, the retirement community industry is shifting from offering places of care and rest to places of activity and vitality. Seasons is an example of this evolution. Monthly activity calendars cater to the interests of the community, offering something for everyone. Wii bowling tournaments are commonplace with winners enjoying bragging rights for days. Pub nights are a must-do, with local entertainers adding to the upbeat atmosphere.

The impact of this change is important. More physical and mental activity, as well as more social interaction, means seniors can live longer and healthier. Balanced meals offer a variety of healthy choices but don’t skimp on presentation and taste. Seniors today want to know care is competent and available when needed, but this isn’t their only priority. They also demand a comfortable lifestyle, allowing them to truly enjoy their retirement. Seasons strives to accomplish this by giving seniors an appealing living option.

See for yourself

Short of stopping by for a personal visit, a great way to get a sense of how a Seasons Retirement Community is not the senior home of yesteryear is to check us out on Facebook.

For more information on LTC, visit the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care website, www.health.gov.on.ca