How Much Cost is Home Care for Seniors in Canada

1️⃣ Hourly Home Care (most common)

For personal support workers (PSWs), companionship, basic care:

• $35–$45 per hour

• Often a 3–4 hour minimum per visit

• Best for:

  • Bathing & hygiene

  • Meal prep

  • Light housekeeping

  • Companionship

  • Medication reminders

Example:

4 hours × $35 = $140 per visit

2️⃣ Daily or Part-Time Care (negotiable for the price by increasing working hours)

If care is needed every day:

• $180–$300 per day

• Usually 4–8 hours/day

• More cost-effective than short hourly visits

3️⃣ 24-Hour and 7 days or Live-In Care

For seniors who cannot be left alone (dementia, fall risk, post-hospital):

• $250–$400 per day

• Monthly cost: $7,500–$12,000

• Still often cheaper than retirement home but expensive than long term care facility

4️⃣ Nursing Care (RN / RPN)

For medical needs (wound care, injections, assessments):

• $80–$150 per hour

• Usually short, targeted visits

🏠 Why Prices Vary So Much

Home care cost depends on:

• Level of care (companionship vs dementia care)

• Hours per visit

• Overnight supervision

• Language or cultural needs

• Weekend / holiday coverage

• Urgency (same-day or emergency care)

💡 The Big Misconception

Many families think:

“Home care is too expensive.”

But in reality:

• A few hours of care can prevent falls, hospital visits, and burnout

• It often delays or avoids nursing home placement

• You pay only for what you need, not a flat institutional fee