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About Laura Polegato

Founder & Retirement Living Guide

I founded Supporting Seniors in 2016 because I saw families struggling to find the right retirement residence. The options were overwhelming, the information was scattered, and everyone seemed to be selling something.

Before starting Supporting Seniors, I was a Program Facilitator at the Glebe Centre Community Programs at Abbotsford for several years. Working directly with seniors and their families, I learned what truly matters when choosing a retirement home—and how much anxiety comes with that decision.

What makes our service different is simple: I visit every residence I recommend. I've walked through 100+ retirement communities across Ottawa. I know the staff, I've tasted the food, I understand the care levels, and I've seen the real atmosphere—not the marketing brochures.

Why I Do This

Choosing a retirement residence is one of life's most difficult decisions. It's emotional, it's complex, and it's often made under pressure—a health crisis, a hospital discharge, or caregiver burnout.

Families need someone they can trust. Someone who knows Ottawa's retirement landscape inside and out. Someone who isn't trying to sell them anything. That's what Supporting Seniors provides.

Our Approach

  • We're independent. We're not affiliated with any retirement residence chain. Our recommendations are based on what's right for you, not who pays us.
  • We're free. Families never pay for our service. We're compensated by the residences when someone we refer moves in. No cost, no obligation.
  • We're local. Ottawa is all we do. We know the neighbourhoods, the traffic patterns, the local healthcare resources, and the subtle differences between similar-looking residences.
  • We're hands-on. We don't just send you a list. We accompany you on tours, help you ask the right questions, and support you through paperwork and move-in.

Let's Talk

Whether you're just starting to explore options or you need help immediately, I'm here. No pressure, no sales pitch—just honest guidance from someone who's helped hundreds of Ottawa families navigate this journey.