Understanding the different types of accommodation

Different types of accommodation

Home, housing, residence, domicile, living quarters, a place to call home… While there is no shortage of words to describe different types of accommodation, the challenge is often the same: to provide a living environment that offers the best possible conditions to promote the recovery of the person being cared for, and to maintain and improve their quality of life.

In 2022, a survey conducted by l’Appui pour les proches aidants showed that the place of residence of the person being cared for was 44% at home, 33% with the caregiver surveyed, 11% in a private seniors’ residence (RPA), 4% in a residential and long-term care facility (CHSLD) and 2% in an intermediate resource (IR).

However, when a person’s state of health or level of autonomy makes it difficult for them and their caregivers to remain in their current home, other types of accommodation need to be considered. And this isn’t easy; we should be able to evaluate possible options and have a choice. But that’s not always possible.

When thinking about housing and accommodation options for the person you are caring for, the two main factors to consider are their needs in relation to their autonomy and their personal profile, particularly their age.

8 tips for considering alternative accommodation

1. Discuss and listen to the preferences of the person who is moving. What do they want? What is the short- and medium-term reality? What temporary or permanent option would be best suited to their needs and degree of autonomy?
2. Talk about the emotions surrounding this major transition. Both in the life of the person you are caring for and in your own life
3. Discuss the implications for the relationship. The transition to a residential setting does not mean that there will be a break in the relationship or that you will no longer be a caregiver
4. Explore the tax advantages associated with the different types of accommodation. For example, residents of a private seniors’ residence may be eligible for the tax credit for home-support services for seniors, the shelter allowance program, the service employment paycheque or the independent living tax credit for seniors. There may be other tax benefits to consider
5. Listen to testimonials. For example, Marie-Soleil Proteau talks to Marina Orsini about how the relationship changed for her following a change in accommodation
6. Participate in a training program. You and me as life goes on is intended for caregivers caring for an elderly person living with Alzheimer’s disease or another major neurocognitive disorder and who has been living in a residential facility for more than two months
7. Improve support at home. You may be caring for someone close to you who, by choice or because there is a shortage of space, is staying at home instead of in a nursing home. This may mean preventing falls at home, and exploring available tax benefits, resources or different types of services
8. Explore other types of living environments. For example, seniors’ and alternative housing