COVID-19 and Retirement/Assisted Living Home: To Stay or Move?

COVID-19 has raised many challenges, none more so than for seniors living in Retirement Homes or Long Term Care facilities. This has led to families struggling with an almost impossible decision, should our loved ones move out, at least temporarily, or should they stay. The Ottawa Hospital in association with the University of Ottawa and the National Institute for Ageing have helped develop two decision aids: one focused on retirement and assisted living homes, and another on long-term care and nursing homes.  

The decision aids will help if:

  • you or your loved ones are living in a retirement home or assisted living home and
  • you are thinking of moving to live with family or friends during the COVID-19 pandemic

There is no easy answer however it is hoped that these aids will help in reaching the best decision.

Click on either of the following links for the relevant aid. The retirement home tool (click this link) is relevant nationally, while the long-term care tool (click on this) applies to Ontario-only at this point.