Alzheimer & memory care residences in Montréal
Finding the right residence for a loved one with Alzheimer's or another neurocognitive disorder is one of the most difficult decisions a family will ever face. This guide explains what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to evaluate your options in Montréal.
Which RPA category for cognitive disorders?
In Québec, certified private senior residences (RPAs) are classified into 4 categories based on services offered:
- Cat. 3 — Supervision and personal care — For mild to moderate stages of Alzheimer's. Staff trained in cognitive disorders, coded anti-wandering doors available in some facilities, adapted activities (memory workshops, music therapy).
- Cat. 4 — Intensive nursing care — For moderate to advanced stages. 24/7 nursing, fully secured dedicated Alzheimer units, physicians on-site or visiting regularly, palliative care available.
Important: intermediate resources (IR) also offer an option for individuals with significant loss of autonomy requiring care beyond RPA capacity.
Key criteria to evaluate during a visit
- Physical safety — coded secured doors (anti-wandering), exit alarms, location bracelets, fenced outdoor spaces
- Staff training — how many employees are trained in Alzheimer care? Is there a gerontology-specialist nurse?
- Staff-to-resident ratio — nights and weekends are critical. Ask for the exact ratio for each shift
- Adapted activity program — are activities truly designed for cognitive disorders (not just bingo)? Music therapy, animal-assisted therapy, sensory workshops?
- Care philosophy — how do they manage difficult behaviours (agitation, wandering)? Gentle or chemical approach (medication)?
- Family involvement — unrestricted visits? Regular meetings with the care team?
Residences with Alzheimer units in Montréal by neighbourhood
Manoir Saint-Joseph
54 rooms specialized in cognitive deficits and Alzheimer's. Nursing care, attendants 24h, memory workshops.
View Ahuntsic →Le Manoir Outremont (Cogir)
350 units, specialized Alzheimer unit, 24h security, nurses on-site.
View Outremont →Manoir Claudette Barré
Alzheimer unit with coded doors, nursing care and 24h assistance.
View Hochelaga →Villa Belle Époque
50 specialized rooms. Mild Alzheimer's, convalescence and short stays accepted.
View Rosemont →Résidence L'Alto (Horizon)
40 dedicated care beds including a memory care unit. Bilingual FR/EN.
View Ville-Saint-Laurent →Héritage Plateau (Horizon)
Complete Alzheimer unit in a century-old building in the heart of the Plateau.
View Plateau →Frequently asked questions
Which RPA category for a loved one with Alzheimer's?
For mild to moderate stages: RPA Cat. 3 with a secured unit. For advanced stages with difficult behaviours or severe incontinence: RPA Cat. 4 or an intermediate resource. Our advisor can assess the appropriate level based on your loved one's situation.
How much does an Alzheimer unit cost in Montréal?
Residences with Alzheimer units in Montréal typically cost between $3,000 and $5,500/month in a private RPA. Public CHSLDs are free or low-cost but waitlists are long (18–24 months on average). Private Cat. 4 residences offer faster access but at personal expense.
Can my loved one stay in the residence as the disease progresses?
This depends on the residence. Some offer a continuum of care (Cat. 1 through Cat. 4 in the same facility), allowing residents to stay without moving. Others have a maximum capacity — ask clearly in advance up to what stage they can accompany the resident.
Next step
Our advisor knows Montréal residences with the best Alzheimer units — their philosophy, staffing ratios, and current availability. Contact her for a personalized, free, no-obligation recommendation.
Speak with our advisor
Describe the stage of the disease, preferred neighbourhood and budget. Our advisor identifies the best option — free of charge, within 24 hours.