About the Author

ESTHER KAREN HEMI GOLDSTEIN obtained a bachelor degree in science from the University of Toronto in 1986 and in Social Work from Ryerson University in 1990. She is a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.

Esther worked as a hospital social worker in the Greater Toronto Area for 12 years, primarily with the geriatric population. A significant portion of her work involved counselling senior clients and their families about the difficult task of relocating to care homes and assisting them with the placement process. As Ontario’s health care system evolved, people began turning to the private sector to care for their elderly that could not be managed at home. Information about retirement homes and many other private services was limited and hard to find so Esther created this Guide out of a need she had for this information. Over time it has evolved and expanded to become what you hold in your hand today.

Currently, Esther works full-time on this website and its affiliated publication the Comprehensive Guide to Retirement Living™. In addition, she shares her knowledge through lectures and workshops at various venues including retirement homes, community agencies and private companies/organizations on "Senior Living Options" and related topics.

In the fall of 2006 Esther added a new dimension to her work and became an educator at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies. Her current workshops are entitled: "Researching Care Options for the Elderly" and "Eldercare: When Being at Home is no Longer Safe". Topics covered include: Caring for the Caregiver, Resources, Visiting Tips, Emotional Aspects, Relocation Tips, After the Move, Unexpected Outcomes and Grief & Loss.

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