As dementia cases rise across Canada, families in Toronto are increasingly faced with a difficult decision: should they care for their loved ones at home or transition them into a specialized dementia care facility?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on the progression of the illness, the caregiver's capacity, and available resources. In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of home care versus facility-based dementia care in Toronto, helping you make the best decision for your family.

Why Dementia Care in Toronto Is a Growing Concern

Toronto’s population is aging rapidly. According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, more than 50,000 people in Toronto are living with dementia—a number expected to double by 2050. The need for accessible, high-quality dementia care in Toronto has never been more urgent.

With this growing demand, Toronto offers a range of options—from in-home support services to specialized memory care facilities.

What Is Dementia Care?

Dementia care refers to the specialized support offered to individuals experiencing cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s or related conditions. It involves:

• Personal care (bathing, dressing)
  
  

• Medication management
  
  

• Cognitive stimulation
  
  

• Supervision and safety
  
  

• Emotional and behavioral support
  
  

Option 1: Home-Based Dementia Care in Toronto

Overview

Home care allows individuals to remain in their familiar environment, receiving support from family members and/or hired professionals.

In Toronto, home care can be privately arranged or accessed through services funded by Ontario Health Teams and Home and Community Care Support Services (formerly LHINs).

Pros of Home Dementia Care

✅ Familiarity and Comfort
Staying at home helps reduce confusion, agitation, and anxiety common in dementia patients.

✅ Personalized One-on-One Care
Families can tailor the schedule, care style, and even caregivers based on preferences and routines.

✅ Family Involvement
Loved ones can be involved in care decisions and maintain daily contact.

✅ Flexible Options
From part-time help to 24/7 home care, families can customize based on changing needs.

Cons of Home Dementia Care

❌ Caregiver Burnout
Providing dementia care is emotionally and physically demanding. Without respite, caregivers often suffer from burnout.

❌ Limited Medical Resources
At-home care may lack access to specialized dementia treatments or emergency medical care.

❌ High Cost (Over Time)
Full-time, private home care in Toronto can cost $25–$35/hour. That’s over $5,000–$8,000/month for full-time care.

Option 2: Facility-Based Dementia Care in Toronto

Overview

Facilities offering memory care or specialized dementia units are designed for individuals with moderate to advanced dementia. Toronto has numerous public and private long-term care homes with dedicated dementia support.

Types of Facilities Available in Toronto

• Long-Term Care Homes (subsidized, often with waitlists)
  
  

• Retirement Homes with Memory Care Units (private-pay)
  
  

• Specialized Dementia Facilities (like Baycrest or Revera)
  
  

Pros of Facility Dementia Care

✅ 24/7 Supervision and Medical Access
Facilities offer trained nurses, doctors, and personal support workers around the clock.

✅ Dementia-Friendly Design
Structured layouts, color-coded hallways, and safety measures reduce wandering and confusion.

✅ Social Interaction
Group activities, therapies, and dining promote engagement and combat isolation.

✅ Predictable Routine
Set schedules help reduce anxiety and behavioral issues in dementia patients.

Cons of Facility Dementia Care

❌ High Monthly Cost
Private memory care in Toronto can cost between $6,000–$10,000/month depending on services.

❌ Emotional Adjustment
Moving out of a familiar home can cause stress or depression, especially during early stages.

❌ Waitlists for Subsidized Homes
Public long-term care homes often have waitlists of several months to a year.

Cost Comparison: Home Care vs Facility Care in Toronto

Key Questions to Ask Before Deciding

Before choosing between home and facility-based dementia care in Toronto, ask:

• How advanced is the dementia?
  
  

• Can we manage behavior and safety at home?
  
  

• What is our budget, both short and long-term?
  
  

• Is the caregiver physically and mentally able to cope?
  
  

• Are there facilities nearby we’d feel comfortable with?
  
  

Hybrid Options: A Middle Ground

Some Toronto families choose a hybrid care approach, combining part-time home care with adult day programs or short-term respite stays at facilities.

• Adult Day Programs: Offer supervised social interaction, meals, and activities (e.g., North York Seniors Centre, LOFT Community Services).
  
  

• Respite Care: Temporary facility care to give families a break.
  
  

These options offer flexibility and cost savings while delaying full facility admission.

Real Stories from Toronto Families

Sandra’s Story: Caring at Home with Help

Sandra’s husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s two years ago. She hired a PSW through Home Instead Toronto for weekday mornings while she runs errands.

“It’s a balance. I want him at home, but I also need support. Home care gives me breathing room.”

The Singh Family: Transition to Memory Care

After Mr. Singh began wandering and had a fall, his family chose a memory care facility in Etobicoke.

“We didn’t want to move him, but it was the safest option. Now, he’s in a community that understands his needs.”

Conclusion:

There’s no universal answer to the home vs. facility debate. Choosing the best option for dementia care in Toronto comes down to what works best for your loved one and your family situation.

• If your loved one is in the early to moderate stages, and you have caregiving capacity, home care with support services may be ideal.
  
  

• If dementia has progressed and safety or health are at risk, a memory care facility can provide peace of mind and expert supervision.
  
  

Whatever path you choose, remember: you don’t have to face this alone. Toronto offers a wealth of resources to help you provide the best possible care.