Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta is committing $250 million towards new seniors housing, lodge renovations and additional continuing care facilities, with the aim of helping older residents access affordable accommodation and support without having to leave their communities.
The provincial government announced on November 9 that applications are now being accepted for funding to create or upgrade 850 affordable homes for seniors. The investment includes $200 million for new continuing care spaces and another $50 million for seniors lodges.
Assisted Living and Social Services Minister Nathan Neudorf said the funding would help ensure older Albertans have access to suitable housing and care as their needs change. He added that expanding facilities and modernising existing lodges would allow more seniors to remain near their families and familiar surroundings.
$200 million allocated for continuing care
Under the Continuing Care Capital Program, the government will provide $200 million to support the construction of 550 additional continuing care spaces. These facilities offer accommodation alongside personal assistance and healthcare services for people who can no longer manage their care requirements independently at home.
The latest funding builds on approximately $400 million committed during the previous funding round, which is supporting the development of 1,100 continuing care spaces across Alberta.
For the first time, the government has also released a continuing care needs assessment alongside the funding application process. The assessment identifies communities likely to require additional capacity over the next three to 10 years, helping applicants prepare proposals based on local demand, including in smaller and mid-sized communities.
Feisal Keshavjee, chair of the Alberta Continuing Care Association, welcomed the initiative, saying the funding and additional planning information would help care providers develop facilities and expand services in areas facing growing demand.
$50 million to build and modernise seniors lodges
A further $50 million will be distributed through the Seniors Lodge Modernization Program to create or upgrade 300 lodge spaces. Seniors lodges provide affordable accommodation, meals, housekeeping and everyday assistance, allowing older residents to maintain independence while remaining connected to their communities.
The new commitment adds to nearly $110 million already allocated to 10 lodge projects across the province. The programme involves collaboration between public and non-profit organisations to improve housing options for seniors.
James Nibourg, president of the Alberta Seniors and Community Housing Association, said the investment would support the renewal of ageing infrastructure and increase accommodation capacity. He also highlighted the importance of ensuring seniors can access appropriate housing and support as their circumstances evolve.
The funding forms part of Alberta’s wider strategy to prepare for an expanding senior population. Through new construction and upgrades to existing facilities, the province aims to improve access to affordable homes and continuing care services across communities.
