Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Metta Lifestyles homes different?

At Metta Lifestyles, we run our homes with the same care and attention as if our own mom or dad were living there. In fact, some of our own family members have stayed with us. We specialize in personal care. We recognize care is a continuum and simply not black and white. Our goal is for your loved one to age in place, receiving the care they need at every stage of their journey. Every resident’s care journey is different. We are boutique homes, not mega sized buildings built as condominiums. We know our residents names. We take the time to know them personally.
Does Metta Lifestyles have wait lists?

Throughout the year, our communities do have wait lists. However, if you place your name and deposit down you can ensure your chance to move in to one of our communities. Our Community Relationship Specialists will be able to advise. Please email sales@mettalifestyles.com, or phone the community, for more information.
How do I know what kind of care my loved one would need?

We understand that determining the right level of care for your loved one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we have a dedicated team to help guide you through this process. In every community, our Manager of Care (a qualified health care professional) and our Community Relationship Specialist (your first point of contact) will collaborate closely with your family and your loved one’s physician. Together, we will assess your loved one's needs, ensuring they receive the personalized care and support they require. This process typically includes comprehensive assessments and, if necessary, specific tests to understand their unique needs. This process usually takes one to two weeks but can be sped up in emergency situations. At a high level, care will fall under one of three categories: Assisted Living Enhanced Care Memory Care In addition to this we offer various levels of care and a la carte services to enhance their experience. This will ensure our residents not only have the care they need, but that their wants and needs are met as well. Call or email us. We are here to ensure your loved one receives the appropriate care at every stage, providing peace of mind for you and a nurturing environment for them.
How do I know if my loved one needs Memory Care?

This is a great question, and it depends on every individual's needs and circumstances. The best way to decide is to speak with one of our Managers of Care during the assessment period. However, here are some general indicators that it might be time to consider Memory Care for your loved one: Safety Concerns: If your loved one is showing signs of wandering, getting lost, or experiencing accidents at home due to memory loss, a secure Memory Care environment can provide the necessary supervision and safety measures. Difficulty with Daily Tasks: Struggling with tasks like bathing, dressing, cooking, or taking medications is another sign. Memory Care staff can offer assistance and support to ensure their well-being. Increasing Isolation: If your loved one is withdrawing from social activities, experiencing loneliness, or struggling to engage with others due to memory issues, Memory Care communities can offer opportunities for social interaction and companionship. Worsening Cognitive Decline: As memory-related disorders progress, the need for specialized care increases. Memory Care communities are equipped to handle different stages of cognitive decline and can adapt care plans accordingly. Unpredictable Behavior: Memory-related disorders can lead to behaviors such as agitation, aggression, or hallucinations. Memory Care staff are trained to manage and respond to these behaviors effectively. Loss of Independence: If your loved one's ability to live independently is significantly compromised by memory issues, Memory Care can provide the right level of support while maintaining a sense of independence. Decline in Quality of Life: If you notice a decline in their overall well-being, mood, or engagement in meaningful activities, Memory Care can offer programs designed to improve their quality of life. Health Concerns: If managing medical needs at home becomes too complex, Memory Care communities often have medical professionals available to provide necessary care.
Are staff working in the Metta Memory Program trained specifically in Memory Care?

All staff who work in our Metta Memory Program are specially trained to ensure our program is properly run and adhered to.
Tell me more about the Metta Memory program. How does it work?

Each of our communities has a Metta Memory program. While each community runs its program independently, they share some commonalities. Our Metta Memory program features Dedicated 24 Hour nursing staff Basic Medication Management Daily suite tidying and weekly housekeeping Weekly personal laundry Cueing and supervision of continence needs 60 minutes of personal support assistance per day Specialized individualized small group programs supplied by dedicated Care Companions and Metta Memory Managers Breakfast, lunch and dinner with staff supervision 24 Hour nurse-call system Customized care plan and daily path based on previous life experiences and interests Every community’s Memory Care has its own personal touch. Inquire at the community you prefer. Read more about Metta Memory.
I am a caregiver and I need some relief. Can my loved one stay with you for a while?

Of course. We understand caregivers need relief and providing care at home can become overwhelming. If any of your family members are struggling to provide the level of care required due to work or other responsibilities, you can try out our Hotel (respite) Stay. We offer Hotel Stays with a minimum stay of 30 days and a maximum stay of 60 days, when available. Our goal is to ensure that your loved one’s needs are met while you are at a Metta Lifestyles community.
Where are your homes located?

Metta Lifestyles homes are located in Ontario, Canada. We cover the cities of Toronto and Ottawa. Click here to see our communities.
What are the specific locations of each home?

Queens Estate Retirement Residence 265 Queens Drive North York, ON M6L 3C6 416-234-0363 Conveniently by Highway 401 and Humber River Hospital; Queens Estate is nestled in a quiet neighbourhood with a beautiful ravine steps away. McCowan Retirement Residence 2881 Eglinton Avenue East Scarborough, ON M1J 0A2 416-266-4445 McCowan Residence is conveniently located in the heart of East Toronto at McCowan Road & Eglinton Ave E. We are surrounded with many different shops, amenities and public transit. McCowan is a five minute drive to Scarborough General Hospital. Greenview Seniors Residence 880 Lawrence Avenue East North York, ON M3C 1P6 416-445-2255 Greenview is located in the heart of the beautiful neighbourhood of Don Mills. Greenview is conveniently located across the street from Shops at Don Mills and is a ten-minute drive to North York General Hospital. Governors Walk 150 Stanley Avenue Ottawa, ON K1M 2J7 613-564-9255 Governors Walk is nestled in Ottawa's famous New Edinburgh Community, just south of Rockcliffe Park and directly across from Stanley Park. The area is known for its easy-going lifestyle, picturesque streets and historical sites.
What recent upgrades have you made to improve resident comfort and safety?

We have made several key improvements to elevate the safety and comfort of our residents. Each suite is now equipped with advanced PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner) systems, offering personalized climate control for optimal comfort. We have installed state-of-the-art LED lighting throughout our homes, enhancing visibility and creating a warm ambiance. This ensures a bright and welcoming environment. Additionally, we continue to create and update shared common spaces where families can gather and connect with their loved ones in comfort. All of our homes now feature gas fireplaces to bring a cozy, homelike atmosphere, perfect for relaxing or enjoying time with family.
Have you enhanced energy efficiency in your buildings?

Yes! We have embraced energy efficiency with gusto, implementing cutting-edge lighting, heating, and cooling systems. Our LED lighting upgrades not only brighten up our spaces but also significantly reduce our carbon footprint.
Are your buildings compliant with current safety and accessibility standards?

Absolutely! Our buildings not only meet, but often exceed, current safety and accessibility standards. Regular reviews and updates keep us ahead of the curve, ensuring the highest levels of resident safety and comfort.
What materials and paints do you use in your buildings to ensure a healthy environment?

We are committed to using sustainable, eco-friendly materials. All our paints and finishes are low in VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), ensuring a healthier, more comfortable living environment.
What fire safety measures are in place in your buildings?

Safety is our top priority. Every building is equipped with advanced fire safety and sprinkler systems to ensure rapid response and maximum protection for our residents.
How do you ensure good air quality in your buildings?

We prioritize your health with advanced HVAC systems equipped with high-efficiency filters. Additionally, we have installed HEPA filters in common areas to enhance air quality and provide superior infection control, ensuring our residents always breathe the freshest, cleanest air possible.
Is Metta Lifestyles Pet Friendly?

Yes! Please reach out to your Community Relationship Specialist, or email info@mettalifestyles.com, to learn more about our Pet Friendly Policy as some restrictions do apply.
What is the cost of care for each Metta Lifestyles community?

The costs for our various levels of care can vary based on a person's medical needs and any a-la-carte options they wish to add on. For more information, including a more in-depth explanation on our levels of care, please email sales@mettalifestyles.com
What Levels of Care are provided at Queens Estate?

Queens Estate offers various levels of care and a la carte services - ensuring our residents not only have the care they need, but that their wants and need are met as well. Levels of Care Metta Memory (Alzheimer's/Dementia Care) Enhanced Care Assisted Living Respite Care
What are some amenities offered at Queens Estate?

The amenities provided at Queens Estate span many interests ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy! We currently have: Walk-out Garden & Gazebo - located on our Main Floor, this is a secured environment ensuring all residents are able to enjoy and utilize the area Various activity lounges Complimentary open-air parking Dining room with restaurant-styled service A private dining room for those more intimate occasions/celebrations with friends and family Theatre Bistro Café Our amenities are always evolving based on our residents wants and needs. Please email queensestate@mettalifestyles.com to book a tour!
What Levels of Care are provided at McCowan?

McCowan Retirement Residence specializes in Alzheimer's/Dementia Care (with the Metta Memory program) and Assisted Living.
What are some of the amenities at McCowan?

The amenities provided at McCowan Retirement Residence span many interests, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy! Some of our highlights include: Newly renovated outdoor area with Gazebo & Gardens Fitness Classes On-site bistro café Theater & Library Our amenities are always evolving based on our residents wants and needs! Please email mccowan@mettalifestyles.com to learn more and book a tour!
What Levels of Care are offered at Greenview?

Greenview specializes in heavier care, as well as assisted living.
What amenities are available at Greenview Seniors Residence?

The amenities provided at Greenview Seniors Residence span many interests ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy! Our featured amenities include: Secured Walkout Garden with Gazebo Various activity lounges Complimentary underground parking Dining Room featuring Restaurant Styled Service & Private dining for more intimate gatherings/celebrations with friends and family
What are the amenities offered at Governors Walk?

The amenities provided at Governors Walk span many interests ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy! We currently have: Rooftop terrace Lounge with Panoramic Views of Ottawa and the Parliament Buildings Historical on-site chapel with services offered in a variety of denominations Main Dining Room & Metta Memory Dining Room; both with restaurant styled service Fireside activity lounge Fully stocked library & internet café Spacious recreationally areas and activity room Private Wellness Centre for health consultation and doctors visits On-site bistro café
What levels of care are offered at Governors Walk?

Governors Walks specializes in Alzheimer's/Dementia Care (through our Metta Memory Program), Assisted Living and Enhanced Care.