Assisted Living or Residential Care

People who need assistance on a daily basis may consider moving into an assisted living residence or a licensed community care facility. Both types of accommodation are regulated under the Community Care and Assisted Living Act; however, there are some key differences between them.

What is the Difference Between Assisted Living and a Licensed Residential Facility?

Assisted living residences and licensed residential care facilities both provide housing and services.

The key differences include:

• The number and level of services provided on a daily basis;
• The number of staff to assist people;
• Whether a person is able to make decisions on their own behalf; and,
• Whether a person can evacuate safely and independently in an emergency.  

Assisted living residences are intended for persons who are independent and require day-to-day assistance in one or more areas (e.g. medications, bathing or life skills). People in licensed residential care may require more assistance on a daily basis and with complex health care needs.

For more information, please visit Residential Care or Assisted Living.