Depending on the level of disability or complexity of the care required to manage the disease, some people with MS will require long-term care. There are a number of long-term care options available across the country. Each province may refer to the following two streams slightly differently; however they are usually categorized as:
Supportive living
This type of care option provides a residential setting where people can maintain control over their lives while also receiving the support they need. People have access to personal and medical care but with the ability to maintain their independence. This may include attendant care apartments, group homes, and shared living spaces.
Facility living
Long-term care facilities provide a range of care services, including professional services such as nursing services, personal services, accommodations, and meals. People who reside in a long-term care facility typically require access to unscheduled 24-hour professional nursing services.
The MS Society of Canada actively advocates for age-appropriate long-term care options for people living with MS under the age of 65. Age-appropriate housing for young adults with disabilities is an issue of growing concern and is of particular significance in the case of multiple sclerosis.
For more information about long-term care options in your area, contact an MS Navigator from 8am to 8pm ET, Monday to Friday by phone at 1-844-859-6789 or by email at