Senior Housing Options in British Columbia

This article was originally published on 5/1/2021 and reflects the information available at that time. While it still provides valuable insights, we've created a new and updated article on this topic to provide more current and engaging content. You can find the latest version at Navigating Senior Housing Options in British Columbia.

Seniors in British Columbia wishing to relocate from their current home have several options available to them depending on their care needs and available monthly income.

Subsidized Housing - rent is based on income rather than on market rate.

An application is required and there are waiting lists for these units. Those that are members of The Housing Registry (not-for-profits or housing co-operatives) can be applied for through their application process, those that are not listed with the Registry require separate applications. Visit the BC Housing Registry for information on applying for subsidized housing in British Columbia.

Supportive Housing - The Seniors' Supportive Housing program provides specially modified rental homes, in selected subsidized housing developments, primarily to low-income seniors or people with disabilities who need some assistance in order to continue to live independently. Support services include 24-hour response, light housekeeping, meals, and social and recreational activities. (Quoted from: https://www.bchousing.org) An application through the Housing Registry is required. The program is funded through the Province of British Columbia.

Assisted Living - these residences are governed by the Community Care and Assisted Living Act and are defined as the following: "a premises or part of a premises, other than a community care facility, in which housing, hospitality services and at least one but not more than 2 prescribed services are provided by or through the operator to 3 or more adults who are not related by blood or marriage to the operator of the premises..." (quoted from: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/). Assisted Living units can be for-profit or not-for-profit and vary in size and accommodation. Available services may include assistance with activities of daily living (grooming, dressing, etc.) and recreational/social activities. The Assisted Living Registrar is responsible for following up with all concerns and complaints. For further information see the article Your Guide to Retirement Home Regulation in British Columbia.

The key difference between Supportive Housing and Assisted Living is that Supportive Housing has more to do with housing as opposed to care which is a predominant characteristic of Assisted Living settings.

Residential Care - (nursing homes, long-term care) are facilities for those who cannot be independent in their own homes and require 24/7 care and support. Residents are provided with meals, medication assistance, assistance with activities of daily living, and social/recreational programs. Eligibility for a government-subsidized Residential Care facility is determined by a case manager from the Regional Health Authority. Those assessed as having the greatest need will be given priority for admission to the first available and appropriate bed. Fees are determined by the person's after-tax income. There are also Private Nursing Homes where no subsidies are available. The private homes set their own fees and manage their own waiting lists and admission procedures.

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If you are looking for assistance locating a home or resources for your loved one, you can reach out to our consulting team at consulting@lifestyle55plusnetwork.com or visit our consulting page for more information.  If you need more information on care options for seniors, retirement community, or long-term care visiting tips please visit our article library for topics of interest.
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