The Province of British Columbia provides affordable housing programs and integrated support services to help low-income seniors maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the Seniors’ Supportive Housing Program and the various aspects of BC housing for seniors. These include the eligibility requirements, program costs, and how to apply for this program. We’ll also cover other options for senior housing assistance in BC.
The Seniors’ Supportive Housing Program – An Overview
The Seniors’ Supportive Housing Program in BC is an initiative that provides multi-unit apartment buildings with private units and support services to seniors, older adults and persons with disabilities.
These units are designed for individuals who are not qualified for assisted living but can live independently with a certain level of assistance.
The apartment units in these buildings are specially modified to provide support to individuals. Accessible features include handrails, lever door handles and grab bars.
The support services include meals, light housekeeping, laundry, social and recreational activities and a 24-hour emergency response system (optional).
The cost of housing and services provided by the Seniors’ Supportive Housing Program is subsidized by BC Housing and its partners.
Seniors’ Supportive Housing Program Eligibility
The following are the requirements to become eligible for this housing program:
- 55 years of age or older
- Low income residents of British Columbia
- People of any age who have a disability
To determine if you are eligible for this housing program, the Province of BC may ask you questions about the following:
- Your level of independence in your current living situation
- Your ability to manage tasks like personal care, grooming and eating
- If a modified home with services can help you regain independence
- If you can properly respond in an emergency and can follow instructions
Seniors’ Supportive Housing Program Cost
Tenants of the Seniors’ Supportive Housing units are generally required to pay 50% of their gross income as rent. This includes housing and hospitality services.
In some cases, a tenant may be asked to pay a fixed amount rather than a monthly rent. This may occur if you’re receiving income assistance or have a very low income.
Your payment can come from your savings, Old Age Security pension, a disability pension or a social assistance benefit.
How to Apply for the Seniors’ Supportive Housing Program
Here are the steps on how to apply for senior housing in British Columbia:
- Go to Housing Listings and search for buildings based on your criteria.
- Under View Building Details, click How to Apply to find the instructions. You’ll typically come across these two options:
- Apply to the housing provider – For this option, you must apply directly to the housing provider.
- Apply to the Housing Registry – If the building you choose has a three-digit building code, you’re required to apply online via the Housing Registry portal or download the Housing Registry Application Form.
To speed up the process, provide more housing options or make a note of up to 16 buildings in your application. When applying, make sure to provide your day and evening phone numbers to enable housing providers to contact you once a unit becomes available.
Other Types of Senior Housing Assistance in BC
Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI)
The HAFI (now BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations – BC RAHA) helps low-income seniors and disabled persons with financing for home modifications that ensure accessibility, safety and independent living. If you are eligible, you can get up to $20,000 per home issued via a forgivable loan.
Eligible renovations include handrails in hallways or stairways, grab bars and seats and ramps that provide easy access. The goal of programs like BC RAHA is to help seniors make adaptations and remain in their homes.
B.C. Seniors Home Renovation Tax Credit
Seniors 65 and over can take advantage of the B.C. Seniors Home Renovation Tax Credit. It helps cover the cost of specific permanent home renovations that improve accessibility or enhance their mobility and functionality.
Qualifying renovations or alterations include features like easy-to-operate door locks, lever handles on doors instead of knobs, handrails in corridors, motion-activated lighting, non-slip floors, walk-in bathtubs and general renovation costs.
FAQs
What are the types of senior housing in BC?
Senior housing types in BC include independent living, assisted living, supportive housing, long-term care homes, residential care, Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER), and co-housing. All of these are designed to cater to and support the needs of seniors.
What is the cheapest way for a senior to live in BC?
It can consist of several ways. It can include taking advantage of senior discounts and tax breaks, applying for senior housing programs and subsidized housing for seniors in BC, and residing in low-cost independent living communities.
How much does an old age home cost in BC?
According to ComfortLife, living in British Columbia retirement residences cost between $1,500 and $6,000. All monthly expenses are covered under a single umbrella, and include housing, food, maintenance and other costs.