roviding care for a loved one at home is daunting—especially if it’s after a hospital discharge, surgery, or other new diagnosis. It’s the same questions families all over Toronto and the GTA are facing: Where do we start with this? What services are available? How do we get the right equipment fast?
The positive news is that here in the Greater Toronto Area, there are various options for home care assistance, community support services, and medical equipment providers available to assist families in facilitating recovery safely and in comfort. Whether you’re planning a medical bed for long-term care or setting up an emergency same-day medical bed delivery process, this guide has all the basics.
What is homecare in Toronto & the GTA?
Home care is intended to enable individuals to stay safely and easily in their homes with medical or personal support.
Home Care Services Offered: Types of Home Care Available
- Nursing care (dressings; management of medications)
- Provide personal care workers to assist with activities of daily living.
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Palliative and end-of-life care
- Respite care for family caregivers
Such services may be publicly funded, privately arranged and paid for, or a combination of both.
Accessing Publicly Funded Home Care
Ontario Health atHome (formerly LHIN) organizes publicly funded home care services in Toronto and surrounding areas.
How to Get Started
- A hospital, physician, or community health agency will refer you.
- Schedule an in-home assessment.
- Receive a customized care plan.
Medical services are available through OHIP, and there may be wait times.
Private Home Care Options
Private home care agencies are also available in addition to government services, offering choices and supplementary support for families who need immediate or extra help.
Benefits of Private Care
- Faster service availability
- Customized scheduling
- Consistent caregiver assignments
- Specialized care options
A smooth transition from hospital to home is another key, and private care can help make it happen, for example.
Critical Safe Recovery Medical Equipment
Setting up a safe home recovery place is important. A hospital bed that’s adjustable is one of the most important items.
Why a Medical Bed Matters
- Improves positioning and comfort
- Reduces risk of pressure sores
- Makes caregiving tasks safer
- Supports respiratory and circulation needs
Don’t wait an extra day to get your patients released when their families can start setting up immediately with same-day medical bed delivery for emergency discharges. Its rapid shipping and professional installation add up to day-one peace of mind.
Or, some families may look into renting a luxury hospital bed that offers greater comfort and better positioning options.
Financial Assistance & Funding Support
Home care can be costly, but there are various funding options that could make it more affordable.
Possible Financial Resources
- Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP)
- Veterans Affairs Canada benefits
- Private insurance coverage
- Disability tax credits
- Community grants and charitable programs
Be sure to speak with a healthcare provider or social worker to find out if there are any criteria you need to meet.
Creating a Safe Home Environment
In addition to professional care and equipment, there are also minor modifications that significantly increase safety.
Home Safety Checklist
- Install grab bars in bathrooms.
- Put away loose rugs and obstructions.
- Ensure adequate lighting in hallways.
- Keep emergency contacts easily accessible.
- Furnish for wheelchair or walker use.
Venture proactive planning to prevent accidents and the stress of a caregiver.
Supporting Family Caregivers
Caregiving is exhausting, physically and emotionally. Families in Toronto and the GTA are provided with support groups and community services.
Helpful Resources
- Caregiver support groups
- Local community health centres
- Alzheimer Society of Toronto
- Hospice Toronto services
- Mental health counselling services
When it comes to care, the caregiver is as important as the patient.
Planning for Long-Term Care Needs
Home care situations can change and develop. Unscheduled reevaluations mean your loved one always has the right level of support.
Consider:
- Changes in mobility
- Increasing medical complexity
- Caregiver burnout
- Equipment upgrades
- Transition planning if needed
By planning early, families are able to make any necessary adjustments rather than making crisis decisions.
Why Quick Equipment Access Is Essential
Patients at Toronto and GTA hospitals are typically discharged quickly. Without the proper setup at home, recovery can be painful and unsafe.
That’s why the same-day medical bed delivery system used is an extremely vital deployment in that scenario. The immediate provision of vital equipment minimizes risk, enhances comfort, and facilitates a successful transition from hospital to home.
