A Resource Guide for Families Supporting an Adult with a Developmental Disability or Neurodiversity 

Some families begin exploring options early, soon after a diagnosis. Others arrive here more urgently, when a situation changes quickly and decisions are needed right away.

When the opportunity to volunteer at Highview came up, Joanne Hammerton knew it felt right. 

Are they still able to make decisions safely? 

Choosing a retirement home is an important decision—and often one that comes with a mix of questions, emotions, and timing considerations. 

Choosing a dementia home for someone you love can feel overwhelming. 

Visiting someone who is living with dementia can feel uncertain. 

Some families begin exploring options early, soon after a diagnosis. Others arrive here more urgently, when a situation changes quickly and decisions are needed right away.

Through years of walking alongside people and families, we’ve found that most journeys include five stages. Every situation is different—but this framework can help bring some clarity to what can feel overwhelming. 

As the number of people living with dementia in Canada continues to grow, more families are facing complex and emotional decisions about care. 

Independence first. Support when you need it. Connection every day.

The hope for this article is to offer practical tools, gentle guidance, and thoughtful starting points as you begin your search for a retirement home.

Leslie’s mom was clear about one thing: She would only leave her apartment “feet first.” 

As dementia progresses, there often comes a point when families begin asking a difficult question: When is it time to make a change?