Today, Jason Nixon, the Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services, announced significant new funding aimed at enhancing services for seniors during the 38th annual Alberta Seniors’ Week.
Alberta is home to nearly 800,000 seniors, a number that is rapidly growing and increasing the demand for services such as housing and care. Minister Nixon assured that the government is committed to meeting these needs. “Our government ultimately continues to be very committed to being able to provide services that allow seniors to age comfortably in the communities that they built.”
Nixon highlighted the province’s ongoing investments in senior care, including housing and healthcare. Over the past few years, the government invested over $3 million with Healthy Aging Alberta to help seniors upgrade their homes with necessary safety features and supports, allowing them to age in place. “We have seen a lot of success over the last couple years with that investment, which is why we’re choosing today to increase that investment and to expand it across the province.”
Nixon announced that Alberta will invest $18 million over the next three years to provide in-home supports to seniors. “These supports can include things like housekeeping, yard work, transportation to appointments, meal delivery programs, in-home and emotional supports, and other programs along those lines.” he said.
The allocation of the $18 million is detailed as follows:
- $4.5 million will be directed through Carya in Calgary.
- $4.5 million will go through the Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council.
- $3 million will be allocated for community-based grants in smaller communities like Grand Prairie, Lethbridge, and Red Deer.
- $6 million over three years will be funneled through the United Way of Calgary and Area.
“These services in our view are essential to helping seniors age with dignity in the comfort of their own communities,” Nixon stated. He also highlighted that Alberta is leading the nation in spending on senior care. “Compared to other provinces, Alberta is spending the highest final amount on seniors in the country, something that we’re very proud of.”
Susan Brooke from the United Way of Calgary and Area elaborated on how the $6 million investment will support over 20 community and home support programs for seniors across the province. “This is a significant milestone and substantial boost to support the well-being of seniors across our province, and it will get us one step closer to our mission of making Alberta one of the best places to grow older.”
Paula Telfer, CEO of Carya,explained the role of the Way In Network in providing comprehensive services to older adults in Calgary. “The Way In Network is a collaboration of Calgary-based agencies… the Way In partnership is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and access to services and supports for older adults experiencing vulnerable circumstances and their families.”
The funding will enhance the Way In Network’s ability to integrate health and community-based services, improve referral pathways, and support older adults with psychosocial, mental health, and addiction issues. “This grant is critical in supporting older adults aging in community and recognizing the need for further integration between the health system and community-based services.”
The announcement concluded with a Q&A session, where Minister Nixon addressed questions about the broader scope of his portfolio, including affordable housing. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring municipalities expedite building permits and zoning issues to facilitate the construction of affordable housing projects.