Community Resources & Supports

Options can include caregiver respite, supported independent living, group living, host family or home share arrangements, and supportive housing. DSO is the starting point for provincially funded residential and respite services.

Meaningful participation and connection matter. These supports include supported employment, job coaching, volunteer opportunities, day programs, life-skills development and recreation.

Ontario's specialized developmental services can include crisis stabilization, speech therapy, communication-skills training, behavioural assessment and intervention, and adaptive-functioning assessment. Ask DSO or SCS how to access them in your area.

Families often begin looking at adult services well before their child turns 18, and Ontario recommends starting transition planning early. DSO and ODSP are key connections for the move into adult services.

Specialized geriatric services support older adults living with complex and chronic health conditions. In Ottawa, supports for vulnerable older adults also include Geriatric Assessment Outreach Teams, Geriatric Psychiatry Community Services of Ottawa and Primary Care Outreach.

Supports that help older adults stay at home longer and give caregivers a break: caregiver support, respite, adult day programs, Meals on Wheels, homemaking, friendly visiting, transportation, telephone reassurance, personal emergency response systems and home maintenance. Your local community support agency (above) or 211 can connect you.

Staying creative and connected matters at every age. Look for Seniors Active Living Centres, City of Ottawa 50+ programs, libraries, community centres, arts and crafts, lifelong learning, social clubs, exercise and fall-prevention classes, and volunteer opportunities.

Options range from staying at home with support and home adaptations, to supportive housing, retirement residences, assisted living, respite stays and long-term care.