Private-Pay Housing Options
A private Assisted, Supportive, or Independent Living facility is a self-contained home. Even though no two are the same, your loved one would have a door that locks, and their space may be a one-bedroom or studio with a bathroom, living room, space for a small dining table, and kitchenette. They can be similar to Residential Care Facilities but are privately run and offer a range of supervision or care.
Residents might have meals in their own room or share meals in a common dining area. Activities and entertainment are scheduled regularly to encourage socialization and increase the quality of life for residents. Some facilities offer a shuttle service for medical appointments, lunch out, or shopping.
Assisted, Supportive, and Independent Living can offer a range of services. For instance, help with personal care, housekeeping, laundry, medication management, and some nursing care. In some facilities, residents need to be able to bathe and dress on their own.
Some facilities offer fee-for-service individual care through an enriched care program. This could include help with bathing, dressing or increased nursing care. This is similar to what is offered in a nursing home or through government-funded home care or a privately paid home care provider.
Assisted Living offers a good balance of private and shared living space and services that can be purchased. For people who can afford this option, it can reduce the stress on both the loved one and the caregiver. It might be good for someone looking to downsize, who would benefit from living in a social community, and who may need some level of support each day.
Many people are surprised to find that assisted living can be affordable when compared to the cost of owning and maintaining their own home (heating, yard work, snow removal, insurance, property taxes, etc.).
This might be a good first step on the continuum of care. It will help your loved one get used to group meals and group activities. It can also introduce support workers in a more manageable way. Once your loved one is settled in, you will probably find there is less demand on your time, especially if they’re happy with their new surroundings. You might also find you don’t have to worry about your loved one being alone.
To find private facilities in your area, click the links below. These lists will help you identify some facilities in your area. Caregivers Nova Scotia will continue to add information to these lists as we get it, and ensure the information is as up-to-date as possible. Please note: There are no standardized definitions of assisted, supportive, or independent living, or full nursing care. We recommend you contact the facility directly to confirm the level(s) and type(s) of services provided.
Nova Scotia Private Facilities - Capital Region
Nova Scotia Private Facilities - Cape Breton Region
Nova Scotia Private Facilities - Northern and Eastern Mainland Region
Nova Scotia Private Facilities - Western Region
Nova Scotia Private Facilities - Valley Region
Caregiver Tips
Make sure you read through our Is It Time for a Move? page.
Consider bringing along a family member or friend when you visit for a tour. This will help you get a good sense of the facility. It’s always helpful to have an extra set of eyes to pick up on things you might miss. You could arrange to stay for a meal or maybe your loved one could stay for a few days to see if they’re comfortable with the atmosphere, staff, and other residents.
When deciding on a private care facility, consider all the options. You want the facility to be the kind of place your loved one will be comfortable and where their social and recreational needs are met. Any facility you consider should be willing to provide you with a tour and to answer all your questions. Make sure to bring along the checklist of 28 questions we shared in the Long Term Care section of our website.