The term continuum of care refers to a range of services and supports that are available to individuals throughout different stages of life. A continuum of care allows individuals to receive the right level of care at the right time and in the right setting, helping to ensure that they receive the best possible outcomes. This is an essential consideration when it comes to planning for the future. Most importantly, it supports an individual’s overall well being and quality of life. It also allows for a more efficient and cost-effective healthcare system by reducing unnecessary hospital admissions and readmissions and promotes continuity of care. 

 

For many older adults “aging-in-place” means living in any alternative to living in a long term care facility and in Saskatchewan, there are several alternatives that fall into a continuum of care options. There are options to receive in-home supports and services to help you remain in your home as long as possible, and there are several different types of housing geared towards meeting the needs of older adults. However it does tend to be a little confusing because not all senior housing options are the same. The term “senior living” is an umbrella term to categorize the different types of housing and the services and supports that are offered within them. It’s important to know what these terms mean because it will help match an individual’s needs with the most appropriate living arrangements. Below are descriptions of a few of the most common terms used when it comes to senior living arrangements and supporting an individual in their environment.

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Home Services and Supports

Home care and other services and supports are great options for seniors who prefer to live at home but need assistance with daily activities in their current setting. These types of services and supports can also be accessed in a variety of different settings such as, independent living communities, retirement communities and other supportive living options. Services can include in-home personal care services, meal delivery, transportation, nursing care, companionship services, palliative care and more.

 

 

Independent living communities

These communities typically offer apartment style accommodations for seniors who are able to live independently. Some independent communities may also offer social activities directed by either residents or staff. There may also be access to other services and amenities depending on what each community offers.

 

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Enriched living Communities (& Retirement Communities)

These communities are also known as supportive living communities, and are similar to independent living communities, often providing additional hotel like services, such as wellness programs, social events, and services like weekly housekeeping an linen services. These communities are designed for seniors who want to stay active and engaged in their communities.

 

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Assisted Living Communities

These communities often provide intermediate support with certain aspects of daily activities and typically provide all meals, housekeeping, and laundry services, as well as recreational and social activities for residents. Assisted living communities often offer a higher level of care than independent or enriched living communities.

 

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Personal Care Homes

Personal care homes, also known as residential care facilities, provide a higher level of care than assisted living communities, but not as high as a long-term care facility. Personal care homes are designed for seniors who require assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, and supervision, but do not require constant nursing care. Personal care homes in Saskatchewan are required to be licensed and are regulated by the Ministry of Health. They typically provide all meals, personal care, housekeeping, and laundry services, as well as recreational and social activities for residents. Some personal care homes may also offer specialized care for seniors with specific needs, such as those living with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. It's important to note that costs for personal care homes vary. Saskatchewan residents may also be eligible for the Personal Care Home Benefit to help supplement the cost of living in a personal care home.

 

 

Memory Care

Memory care homes are specialized facilities that provide care for seniors living with a memory impairment, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These facilities often have specialized staff trained to work with memory-impaired individuals and may have specialized programs, activities, and environments to support them.

 

 

Special Care Homes / Long-Term Care Facilities

These facilities provide the highest level of care for those who qualify based on an assessment through the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Long term care facilities provide 24/7 supervision and/or assistance with activities of daily living and medical care. They may also provide rehabilitation services and specialized care for seniors with specific needs, such as those living with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. In Saskatchewan these facilities are typically government funded or non-profit and affiliated organizations, regulated by the government to meet certain standards of care. The cost for long term care is income based and will depend on your annual reported income.

 

 

Respite 

Respite care is short-term care provided for seniors, typically for a period of days or weeks. It is intended to provide relief for primary caregivers, and it can be provided in a variety of settings, including independent living, assisted living, personal care homes and long-term care facilities.

 

 

Lastly, it’s important to note that the costs vary depending on the type of housing and level of care or types of services provided. Each individual's unique needs and preferences should be considered when choosing the right senior housing option. It's also recommended to visit or tour facilities in person and ask questions. If you’re able to, you can try to talk to current residents or their family members to get a sense of what they say their experience is, living in that particular community. And if you are finding this process overwhelming (which is often the case), you can reach out to the Saskatchewan health authority, or contact navigation services to speak with a a senior living consultant who may be able to help you determine the next steps.