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newfoundland retirement guide

A Guide to Retirement Care & Senior Living in Newfoundland

With endless mountains and one of the most colourful waterfronts in the world, Newfoundland and Labrador is considered a dreamland for every day outdoors lovers. It often appeals to retirees for its unique culture, laid-back lifestyle, and reputation for having some of the friendliest and most hospitable communities. The province also offers its citizens a comprehensive health care system and affordable housing while still holding the charm of a European village, combining some of the best qualities of a big city within a smaller community. If retirement in Newfoundland and Labrador sounds like the right fit for you, <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/">Cared Upon</a> is here to help connect you with the perfect retirement community that fits your care needs.&nbsp;

Whether you're a hiker, fisher, or golfer, you will find that the province offers older adults a wealth of seasonal activities to indulge in. If you are an active senior who enjoys spending time outdoors, you can find yourself spending your days fishing, hiking, walking a trail, camping, or even on a boat tour whale watching. Newfoundland and Labrador also has a vibrant theatre and festival scene for those looking for a community show, music festival, or even a food festival to check out.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Newfoundland and Labrador has a maritime climate, meaning that summers are colder and shorter with less extreme temperatures. You can expect the average summer temperature to sit at around 16°C (61°F), while the average winter temperature sits at around 0°C (32°F).&nbsp;

Seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador can choose from several different senior homes, whether it may be a long-term care home or a personal care home. Retirees are entitled to care and support through either publicly subsidized care or private pay providers. To search for a care service provider in Newfoundland and Labrador, you can visit our search portal on <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/">caredupon.ca.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Older adults that are eligible for publicly subsidized home services can access these services through the Department of Health and Community Service. Subsidies are offered to seniors residing in long-term care facilities, personal care homes, and protective community residences. Eligibility is based on a financial assessment used to decide the amount of subsidy that may be offered to each individual senior. For more information on care home subsidies, visit <a href="https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/seniors/residentialoptions/">the Newfoundland and Labrador government website.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

Depending on the care you require and your personal lifestyle, the cost of retiring in Newfoundland and Labrador may vary. However, Newfoundland and Labrador is often noted for having a lower cost of living compared to the national average for Canadian cities - including lower costs for housing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In terms of care homes, the maximum cost of publicly operated long-term care facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador will cost you no more than $2990 per month. However, the price of privately owned care homes will differ depending on the facility you choose. You may also find subsidized options to fit your budget. To find out more about paying for care in Newfoundland, visit <a href="https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/faq/nhltfaq/">the official Newfoundland and Labrador website.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;For seniors wishing to age in place, the Newfoundland and Labrador government helps with monthly expenses for those needing added help. Through the Provincial Home Repair Program (PHRP), seniors living on a low to moderate income are offered financial aid by covering the cost of home renovations that help promote their independence through accessibility changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seniors living in the province also have access to the Newfoundland and Labrador seniors’ benefit, which is a program designed to supply a tax-free annual benefit of $1,313. This program is offered to eligible seniors who are aged 65 and single, or to married senior couples making $29,402 or less. For senior families with a joint income between $29,402-$40,663, they are eligible to receive part of this benefit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the case that you do not meet the eligibility criteria for receiving Government funding, you have several options for post-retirement income sources.&nbsp;&nbsp;Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs): Using a Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) or a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSAs), your post-retirement income is dependent on the amount you put into these accounts when you first began saving and the interest you received.&nbsp;&nbsp;Investment accounts: More commonly, some may look to taxable investment accounts as a post-retirement income source. These can include investments from accounts such as stocks and bonds.&nbsp;&nbsp;Employer-sponsored pension plans: Under an employer-sponsored pension plan, you and your employer can contribute money over the course of your employment. When you decide to retire, you can access the income directly saved from the plan.&nbsp;To learn more about your options for post-retirement income sources, visit our <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/blog/paying-for-care/paying-for-care-in-canada-%7C-stretching-your-dollars">resource centre.</a>&nbsp;

Health insurance is covered by The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP) and administered through the Department of Health and Community Services, where residents can receive coverage on all medically necessary services provided by a doctor.&nbsp;&nbsp;Newfoundland and Labrador also offer eligible seniors added health coverage on prescription drugs and medical supplies through government-funded healthcare programs:&nbsp;The Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP): If you are below a certain income threshold or if you require prescription medication that costs you anywhere from 5-10% of your annual income, you are eligible for the provincial Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP) that helps cover the cost of these drugs.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 65 Plus Plan: The 65 Plus Plan supplies prescription drug coverage to seniors aged 65 and up who are receiving the Old Age Security Benefits (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Adult Dental Program: Through this program, seniors living in the province can receive basic dental services including x-ray services, routine fillings, extractions, as well as denture coverage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/mcp/">Medical Care Plan (MCP)</a>: You can find a detailed list of physician services covered for residents.&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-emergency Health Helpline: Call the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Line for non-emergency-related health inquiries at 811 or 1-888-709-2929 (TTY: 1-888-709-3555).&nbsp;

Lifestyle & Activities 

Weather and Climate 

Housing Options in Newfoundland and Labrador: Finding the Right Fit for you

Cost of Retiring in Newfoundland and Labrador: Budgeting and Financing 

Post Retirement Income Sources 

Access to Healthcare 

Additional Resources 

Cared Upon 9

I need support arranging care for myself or a loved one. Where do I start? 

Getting Started with Retirement Care

Arranging care for yourself or a loved one can seem complicated. &nbsp;To get started, there are four steps when arranging senior care services.&nbsp;

Arranging care for yourself or a loved one can seem complicated.To get started, there are four steps when arranging care services.&nbsp;1) Request for an assessment for services from a local home or community care office&nbsp;2) Prepare for your assessment or services&nbsp;3) Develop your unique care plan&nbsp;4) Begin your care services

When you or someone you know needs care, you can contact your local home or community care office to request an assessment for services. If you’re already working with a health care professional, including a doctor, nurse, pharmacist or social worker, they can make a referral for you.

Once your local home and community care office receives a request for assessment, either from yourself or a health care professional, you will be contacted. The health care professional from the local home or community care office will work with you to determine your eligibility for services and/or arrange for an assessment if it is necessary.  
If for any reason you or your loved one is not eligible for home and community care services or you do not require an assessment for services, you will receive a referral to other resources. 


An assessment for services with a health care professional is a meeting to talk about your current living situation and assess your unique health care needs.&nbsp;To prepare for your meeting, you will need to have:&nbsp;• Your health care card• Your family doctor and the best number to reach them at&nbsp;• A close relative or friend that the care services office can contact&nbsp;• Information about any prescription medications you are taking&nbsp;• Your pension cheque stubs&nbsp;• Your income tax return or notice of assessment&nbsp;The health care professional will also work with you to answer the following questions:&nbsp;• Am I eligible for care?&nbsp;• What services are needed to meet my unique health care needs and situation?&nbsp;• How long will I need care services for?&nbsp;• Will the services cost me anything? If so, how much will that be?&nbsp;It is important to remember that you and your loved one have the right to consent to care by your health authority. Make sure your questions are answered and explained so you have an understanding of the next steps ahead.&nbsp;To prepare further for your meeting, Cared Upon recommends you have:&nbsp;• A list of questions you have about home and community care services&nbsp;• Documents or any information that could be helpful to further assess your unique health care needs&nbsp;• A family member, close relative or friend to attend the meeting with you. It can be helpful to have an extra pair of ears to provide support or ask any questions you might miss.

Once it is determined that you are eligible for services, a health care professional will work with you to co-create a care plan that meet your unique health care needs. 
This plan will serve as a guide for everyone on your caregiving team. As your care situation evolves and changes, your care plan will be updated by the health care professional. 


The time it takes to begin your care services will depend on the urgency for the need of the particular care service. This will be determined by the health care professional during your assessment for services meeting. Many health care professionals use an “urgency criteria” to prioritize access to care services. The urgency criteria will vary depending on where you are located and whether you are accessing home or community care.&nbsp;Generally, this is based on:&nbsp;• Is there an urgency to access health care needs right now?&nbsp;• What is the current availability for home and community caregivers and support?&nbsp;• Is there a potential risk from abuse, neglect, or self-neglect that requires assistance in managing your day-to-day needs?

Getting Started

1.  Request an assessment for services from a local home or community care office 

2.  Prepare for your assessment of services 

3.  Develop your unique care plan

4.  Begin your care services

Cared Upon 21

What are the Care Options Available for Me? 

There are a number of care options available for seniors. &nbsp;Read on to learn what they are and find out which one may be right for you

There is a spectrum of care options available depending on your unique health care needs. These include:&nbsp;

Active Adult Living are often gated or planned communities, that are built to provide you with the utmost flexibility. You may choose this living option if you are comfortable with living on your own. These communities allow you to choose to live with people around the same age and those who have the same interests as you. When you choose active adult living, you choose a community with on-site services and amenities such as 24-hour security, golf courses, art classes, recreation centres, gyms and fitness classes, spas, lawn bowling, and tennis courts. When you live in active adult living communities, you also don’t have to worry about maintaining you living space such as mowing your lawn or clearing your driveway.  

Independent Living allows you to live with people around the same age and interests in a care-free and stress-free community. This option is for you if you are comfortable with living on your own, have good physical health, and have good cognitive health, but would like extra assistance with tasks around your living space such as with cooking, laundry and in-home maintenance. Often, independent living communities offer recreational programs similar to active adult living communities as well.  

Home Care allows you to stay in the comfort of your own home and get the day-to-day assistance you may need. This is ideal if you have some physical or cognitive health limitations. The type of assistance will depend on your needs including medication assistance, transportation, and cooking. Other services could include respite care and palliative care. Sometimes, these services are eligible through your home or community care providers. 

Assisted Living homes are sometimes referred to as personal care homes or assisted care communities. This option is ideal if you are still able to live independently but have some physical or cognitive health limitations. In assisted living communities, you have on-site daily support including personal care, mobility and transportation, cooking, and medication assistance. Care in these facilities are tailored to meet your unique needs. Often, assisted living communities will also offer social, cultural, recreational and educational activities. 

Long-Term Care allows you to have all-inclusive 24-hour assistance including personal care, hygiene, mobilit, and transportation, and medication assistance. This is an option if you have physical or cognitive health limitations such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Often, you will be assessed by a social service agency for long-term care services. Depending on where you live, long-term care is usually covered by the Ministry of Health.  

Respite Care offers you short-term care that can range from 24-hours to 90 days, depending on your unique health needs and living situation. These services are offered in-home or at retirement homes. This is for you if you have any physical or cognitive health limitations. The respite care services offered include personal care, hygiene, mobility and transportation, and medication assistance. Often, it is recommended by your home or community care office. 

Convalescent Care allows you to be cared for after surgery such as knee or hip surgery. This is a short-term care service similar to respite care that is offered in retirement homes. Convalescent care offers 24-hour care in cases of emergencies and routine doctor check-ups. Sometimes, retirement homes offering convalescent care have amenities and services to help with your recovery including pools, spas, gyms, and physiotherapy. 

Palliative Care allows you to have the right care if you are experiencing a terminal, serious illness. It is also referred to as comfort care, end-of-life care or hospice care. This can be offered in retirement homes or in-home. If you choose palliative care in retirement homes, there may be other services available such as spas and physiotherapy. 

Care Options

Adult Active Living

Independent Living

Home Care

Assisted Living

Long Term Care

Respite Care

Palliative Care 

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<a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/care-advisor/apply">Click here to match with a Cared Upon Senior Living Advisor today.</a>

Find The Support You Need With a Senior Living Advisor 

You or your loved ones have come to an important conclusion–it’s time to seek additional living support. Independent research is a critical first step in this process, but you’ve realized just how much information is out there. Navigating the digital maze of elder care providers’ websites, blogs, and independent resources can often lead to more questions than answers. Senior Living Advisors are here to help guide you all the way through the process, from initial research to moving day.&nbsp;&nbsp;Senior Living Advisors (SLAs), sometimes referred to as Senior Living Consultants, Senior Living Care Professionals, or Elder Care Advisors, are not affiliated with specific care facilities, working independently to ensure that you find the perfect residence. Each Senior Living Advisor is equipped with a wealth of experience in the senior care industry, and has access to information sometimes unavailable to families. Their goal isn’t to rush you through this already stressful process– they’re here to empower your decision making with the support and resources you need.&nbsp;

You’ve likely already noticed that the existing senior care landscape is not exactly conducive to independent research– care homes’ guides, blogs, and resources sometimes host competing information, or are colored by their intention to attract new residents. Senior Living Advisors have guided families through this process before, allowing them to provide you with specific, relevant information. Since Senior Living Advisors are not affiliated with a particular facility, you can trust them to be honest and objective. Not only will they be able to discuss the levels of available care, vacancies in your area, and how to pay for it, they’ll also have a qualitative sense of each community.

Senior Living Advisors work for you– not for care providers. Before your SLA begins the discussion about available facilities, they spend time getting to know you. All of their recommendations are based on you or your loved one’s personal wants, needs, required care, budget, and personality. Armed with a thorough understanding of your needs, they’re able to advocate on your behalf and deliver a rich, personalized experience. What’s more, your advisor’s job doesn’t stop once you’ve received a handful of recommendations; your Senior Living Advisor stays involved in your provider search until well after you’ve settled in.&nbsp;

Choosing a residence is one of the most important moves of your or loved ones’ life. With so many key factors to consider, this process takes time. Senior Living Advisors are happy to move as quickly or as slowly as you need them to. If you’re looking for a residence right away, their connections with care providers can expedite your move-in day, but if you’re just starting your journey– they’re happy to use those same relationships to book as many tours as you need. Your comfort and confidence is the foundation of a successful placement.

<a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/care-advisor/apply">Click here to match with a Cared Upon Senior Living Advisor today.&nbsp;</a> You'll be expertly matched with an advisor from our team with more than 35 years of senior care placement experience.

Each advisor will take the time to:&nbsp;<ol><li>Generate and understanding of your or your loved one's care needs</li><li>Explore a diverse array of options in your area and budget</li><li>Research and interview facilities nearby facilities on your behalf</li><li>Arrange in-person residence tours to experience their facilities and services</li><li>Work together to determine the perfect fit</li></ol>

Choosing a Retirement Residence with Confidence

Senior Living Advisors Have Been Here Before

Relationships First, Placements Second

No Rush 

Connect with a Senior Care Advisor on CaredUpon.ca

What You Can Expect From Cared Upon's Senior Living Advisors 

Arnold'S Cove

Baie Verte

Bay Roberts

Bishops Falls

Bonavista

Botwood

Brown'S Arm

Buchans

Burgeo

Cape Anguille

Carbonear

Carmanville

Catalina

Clarenville

Clarke'S Beach

Conception Bay South

Corner Brook

Deer Lake

Embree

Fermeuse

Flower'S Cove

Fogo

Fogo Island

Forteau

Gambo

Gander

George'S Point

Glovertown

Glovertown South

Goulds

Grand Bank

Grand Falls-Windsor

Happy Valley-Goose Bay

Hickman'S Harbour

Holyrood

Irishtown

Kelligrews

Kippens

Labrador City

Lark Harbour

Leading Tichles

Lewisporte

Long Pond

Manuels

Mary'S Harbour

Marystown

Mount Pearl

Mt. Pearl

Musgrave Harbour

Musgravetown

Norris Point

Old Perlican

Placentia

Pollard's Point

Port Auxbasques

Port Aux Basques

Port Saunders

Riverhead

Robinsons

Roddickton

Springdale

St. Anthony

Stephenville Crossing

St. John's

Cared Upon Website Blog Photos (6)

A Guide to Retirement Care & Senior Living in St. John’s

St. John’s is the easternmost city in North America and is located on the eastern tip of the Avalon Peninsula on the island of Newfoundland. Starting as a fishing outpost for European fishermen, St. John's consisted mostly of the homes of fishermen, and storage shacks. Today, the city’s unique history can still be seen in St. John's is brightly colored downtown, aptly nicknamed “Jelly Bean Row”. The city has a laidback attitude where residents can live a quiet, reserved lifestyle. For a little change of pace, residents also have many opportunities to enjoy live music, open theatres, and craft sessions throughout this scenic maritime city. No matter your preferences when it comes to deciding on a retirement community, let <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/">Cared Upon</a> help you find a community in St. John’s that suits your needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For a small urban center, St. John’s is full of things to do. Each year, party-going residents can look forward to the iconic George Street Festival in August and the Mardi Gras Festival in October. The LSPU Hall is a heritage building that now houses the Resource Centre for the Arts in St. John’s and is regarded as the backbone of artistic infrastructure. Here, seniors can experience the city’s vibrant, diverse arts community. Additionally, The St. John's Arts and Culture Centre contains an art gallery, multiple libraries and a 1000-seat theatre, which is the city's major entertainment venue.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you’re more interested in exploring the outdoors, St. John’s is home to multiple urban greenspaces, steeped in history. Pippy Park on east end of the city is one of Canada's largest urban parks with more than 1,400 hectares of land. This enormous park boasts two golf courses, the province’s largest serviced campground, and trails for walking and skiing. Bowring Park, in the Waterford Valley, is one of the most scenic parks in St. John's, and for a taste of history, you can check out the Victorian-style Bannerman Park located near downtown St. John’s.&nbsp;

In St. John's, the summers are short and comfortable; the winters are long, freezing, snowy, and windy; and it is partly cloudy year-round. Of major Canadian cities, St. John's is the foggiest, experiencing an average of 124 days of fog each year, and windiest with average windspeeds of 24.3 km/h. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from -7°C (19.4°F) to 21°C (69.8°F) and is rarely below -14°C (6.8°F) or above 26°C (78.8°F).&nbsp;

Seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador can choose from several different senior homes, whether it may be a long-term care home or a personal care home. Retirees are entitled to care and support through either publicly subsidized care or private pay providers. To search for a care service provider in Newfoundland and Labrador, you can visit our search portal on <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/">caredupon.ca.</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;Older adults that are eligible for publicly subsidized home services can access these services through the Department of Health and Community Service. Subsidies are offered to seniors residing in long-term care facilities, personal care homes, and protective community residences. Eligibility is based on a financial assessment used to decide the amount of subsidy that may be offered to each individual senior. For more information on care home subsidies, visit <a href="https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/seniors/residentialoptions/">the Newfoundland and Labrador government website.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Depending on the care you require and your personal lifestyle, the cost of retiring in Newfoundland and Labrador may vary. However, Newfoundland and Labrador is often noted for having a lower cost of living compared to the national average for Canadian cities - including lower costs for housing.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;In terms of care homes, the maximum cost of publicly operated long-term care facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador will cost you no more than $2990 per month. However, the price of privately owned care homes will differ depending on the facility you choose. You may also find subsidized options to fit your budget. To find out more about paying for care in Newfoundland, visit <a href="https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/faq/nhltfaq/">the official Newfoundland and Labrador website.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For seniors wishing to age in place, the Newfoundland and Labrador government helps with monthly expenses for those needing added help. Through the Provincial Home Repair Program (PHRP), seniors living on a low to moderate income are offered financial aid by covering the cost of home renovations that help promote their independence through accessibility changes.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Seniors living in the province also have access to the Newfoundland and Labrador seniors’ benefit, which is a program designed to supply a tax-free annual benefit of $1,313. This program is offered to eligible seniors who are aged 65 and single, or to married senior couples making $29,402 or less. For senior families with a joint income between $29,402-$40,663, they are eligible to receive part of this benefit.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In the case that you do not meet the eligibility criteria for receiving Government funding, you have several options for post-retirement income sources.&nbsp; &nbsp;Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs): Using a Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) or a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSAs), your post-retirement income is dependent on the amount you put into these accounts when you first began saving and the interest you received.&nbsp; &nbsp;Investment accounts: More commonly, some may look to taxable investment accounts as a post-retirement income source. These can include investments from accounts such as stocks and bonds.&nbsp; &nbsp;Employer-sponsored pension plans: Under an employer-sponsored pension plan, you and your employer can contribute money over the course of your employment. When you decide to retire, you can access the income directly saved from the plan.&nbsp;&nbsp;To learn more about your options for post-retirement income sources, visit our <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/blog/paying-for-care/paying-for-care-in-canada-%7C-stretching-your-dollars">resource centre.</a>&nbsp;

Health insurance is covered by The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP) and administered through the Department of Health and Community Services, where residents can receive coverage on all medically necessary services provided by a doctor.&nbsp; &nbsp;Newfoundland and Labrador also offer eligible seniors added health coverage on prescription drugs and medical supplies through government-funded healthcare programs:&nbsp;&nbsp;The Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP): If you are below a certain income threshold or if you require prescription medication that costs you anywhere from 5-10% of your annual income, you are eligible for the provincial Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP) that helps cover the cost of these drugs.&nbsp; &nbsp;The 65 Plus Plan: The 65 Plus Plan supplies prescription drug coverage to seniors aged 65 and up who are receiving the Old Age Security Benefits (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement.&nbsp; &nbsp;Adult Dental Program: Through this program, seniors living in the province can receive basic dental services including x-ray services, routine fillings, extractions, as well as denture coverage.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/mcp/">Medical Care Plan (MCP)</a>: You can find a detailed list of physician services covered for residents.&nbsp; &nbsp;Non-emergency Health Helpline: Call the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Line for non-emergency-related health inquiries at 811 or 1-888-709-2929 (TTY: 1-888-709-3555).&nbsp;

Lifestyle and Activities 

Housing Options in Newfoundland and Labrador: Finding the Right Fit for You 

St John'S

St. John�s

St. Lawrence

St. Mary's

Torbay

Twillingate

Wabana Bell Island

Wesleyville

Whiteway

Winterton

Witless Bay

Assessing whether an elderly family member requires additional assistance can often be difficult as you may not be nearby to see the signs, or they may simply downplay their illness to maintain their independence for longer. In any case, this can be a difficult situation to navigate as you may not know the signs to look out for, or how to approach the topic if the conversation is needed.&nbsp;&nbsp;In light of this, it is vital to the well-being of the seniors in your life and to your relationship with them that you approach the conversation with the highest level of empathy and care. We've highlighted the five signs to look for when assessing if an ageing senior in your life requires further assistance, as well as how to approach the discussion when the time comes.&nbsp;

5 Signs That an Ageing Senior Needs Additional Help 

A noticeable change in a senior's personal routine is often a tell-tale sign that they may require additional help. This could look like them neglecting their personal hygiene, missing their doctor appointments, changes in their sleep patterns, or unsanitary living conditions that are not being attended to. While it’s common to occasionally have a change in routine during a busy week, a drastic change in their routine and habits that continues to become a pattern should not be taken lightly or dismissed, and it is imperative to keep a lookout for these changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As seniors age, you may notice some patterns that make you question their safety; for instance, if they have trouble climbing stairs, or if they can't seem to remember how to get to their favourite coffee shop without getting lost. An obvious way to look out for these signs without having to ask is by looking out for any bruises, scrapes, or cuts on a senior's body.&nbsp;&nbsp;A senior’s driving habits are also important to look out for to ensure their safety on the road. One way to look out for changes in their driving includes checking for dents or scratches on the car, piled-up tickets, or citations. To read further about the signs to look out for with seniors driving and how to approach this conversation, visit our <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/blog/additional-resources/how-to-talk-with-seniors-about-their-driving--?fbclid=IwAR1OIIKAikFGYXCAvU5MmqKznAhz3Wq02cQ6y2G8c2paNJGdPb_02gTQ59A">care blog</a>.&nbsp;

While forgetfulness, such as forgetting where you placed an object or taking longer to learn new things, can be considered a normal process of ageing, there are important signs to look out for that may indicate it’s time to visit a doctor. This includes:<ul><li>Repeating a question or story repeatedly</li><li>Difficulty in finding your way around familiar spaces</li><li>Increased confusion about people or the time</li><li>Trouble with written or verbal communication</li><li>Changes in problem-solving abilities</li></ul>&nbsp;If you notice any of these changes in a senior's cognitive abilities, It is vital to receive an evaluation from a medical professional to determine the root cause.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Seniors struggling with reduced mobility, a decline in functional ability, developing a routine after retirement, grief, and loneliness are often prone to struggling with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. During these times, it is imperative to be mindful of their emotional well-being. Some common signs you may notice when the mental health of a senior is declining may include:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Loss of interest in hobbies they previously enjoyed</li><li>Oversleeping or not getting enough rest</li><li>Difficulty remembering or concentrating</li><li>Eating more or less than usual</li><li>Communicates feelings of sadness, helplessness, and/or worthlessness</li><li>Isolation and social withdrawal</li><li>Unusual fatigue</li><li>Changes in their appearance</li></ul>Changes in a senior's mental health require just as much attention and care as changes seen in a physical illness. It is important to not only seek medical help when it comes to their mental health but to also ensure that you are regularly checking up on your loved ones and helping them develop a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and physical activity.&nbsp;

You may notice some changes in their financial habits, such as overdue bills, a dramatic increase in their spending habits, or your loved one making large withdrawals from their accounts without accounting for their financial status. If you notice these changes in their financial habits, you may wish to start a conversation on your concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It's never easy to have a conversation with your family about senior living, especially with your parents. To begin the conversation, consider these tips:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Address your concerns with other family members and ask if they support your decision by speaking to your loved ones about their care options. This will not only help you get additional viewpoints on the matter, but they may also provide you with support with scheduling doctor's calls and finding assistance.&nbsp;

As this is a difficult conversation to navigate, it is critical to approach the conversation with caution and empathy as they may be in denial and resistant to having the conversation. It is imperative to remain calm and respectful of their wishes and to remain objective while listening to what they have to say. Ensure that you are picking a suitable time to have the conversation, and if needed, contact a mediator such as their primary doctor to navigate their options for long-term care.If you notice any of the signs or changes mentioned above, it’s important to take proactive steps to get your loved ones the care they need to overall improve their quality of life. It may be difficult to come to terms with the fact that a loved one requires additional support with daily living, but once you've acknowledged the need for support, there are a variety of tools available to make the following stages as simple as possible.&nbsp;

Changes in Their Personal Routine 

You Become Concerned For Their Personal Safety   

Memory Loss   

Mental Health Struggles   

Changes in Their Financial Habits 

How to Approach the Conversation Surrounding Their Senior Living Options?  

Involve a Sibling or Family Member

Remain Patient and Come From a Place of Empathy

paing_for_care_img

Cared Upon 27

Paying for Care in Canada | Government Contributions

The amount government pays for senior care and the benefits seniors can receive depends on a few criteria such as contributions, average annual earning, and the time you started your pension. Some other parameters such as your health, if you’re married, or whether you’re planning to continue working might also affect the amount of financial assistance for pensioners.

Across Canada, there are two fundamental aids seniors usually use, which are the Canadian Pension Plan Retirement Pension (CPP) and Old Age Security Pension (OAS). You may want to seek help from a certified financial planner to be able to know which programs are the best for you. You can also check out Service Canada or reach out to 2-1-1 for more information about government financial assistance for seniors.&nbsp;<h4>Old Age Security Pension Amount</h4>When you qualify for the Old Age Security Pension (OAS), you can receive up to $614.14 a month, depending on how you long lived in Canada or particular countries starting 18 years old. You can as well receive extra payment based on your income under the other variants of OAS, for instance, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), Allowance Program, Allowance for the Survivor, and other CPP benefits.<h4>Canadian Pension Plan Retirement Pension (CPP) Amount</h4>In 2019, seniors who are new recipients of this benefit aged 65 who will qualify for the CPP can receive a maximum monthly amount of $1,154.58. However, the average monthly amount a senior receives is $679.16. There are varying factors for how much you will receive. For instance, your time off work can affect the amount that you will receive in a monthly basis. At the same time, It is also possible for you to work while you receive the pension.

<h4>Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)</h4>The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is monthly government assistance for seniors with low income under OAS. This program is a non-taxable benefit eligible for seniors with a low income, living in Canada.&nbsp;You can be eligible for this benefit if your income is below $18,624, and you are single, widowed, or divorced. If you have a spouse or a common-law partner, the amount you will receive will depend on your income and your partner’s income combined.&nbsp;You can be eligible for GIS if your income and your partner’s income is below $24,576, and your partner receives the full OAS pension. If your spouse or your common-law partner does not receive an OAS pension, you may be eligible for GIS if you and your partner’s income is below $44,640.&nbsp;While, if your partner receives an allowance, you can be eligible for this program, and your income and your partner’s combined income is below $44,640.<h4>Allowance Program</h4>The Allowance Program is a monthly benefit over and above OAS. Low-income seniors aged 60-64 with a spouse or a common-law partner who is a recipient of Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement may be eligible for this benefit.If you are a Canadian citizen or a legal resident of the country, you can be eligible for this program if your annual income and your spouse/common-law partner combined income is below $34,416.<h4>Allowance for the Survivor</h4>This benefit can be applied to low-income seniors living in Canada who has a deceased spouse or a common-law partner. This allowance is monthly given to seniors who will meet a certain criterion. If you want to know more about this benefit, please visit the website of the Government of Canada.You can be eligible for this benefit if you have a deceased spouse or common-law partner and you haven’t remarried or entered a new relationship with a common-law partner. Your annual income must be below $25,080 to be eligible for this program.&nbsp;

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Paying for Care in Canada | Government Contributions

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