The seniors’ population in British Columbia is growing at a record pace – almost twice the rate of the general population over the last 10 years. Right now there are more than half-a-million people over the age of 65, but that will increase to nearly 1.4 million people, almost one-quarter of the population, in the next 25 years.

Not only is the seniors’ population growing quickly, but seniors today are more healthy and active than ever before – and they want to remain independent for as long as possible. That means past expectations of housing and care needs are also changing. This seniors’ population isn’t destined for traditional nursing homes – the vast majority does not want or need round-the-clock care, as most report their health as good to excellent, with one-third of people over age 65 participating in daily physical activity.

What happens when keeping up your own home becomes too difficult, or home care just can’t meet your needs anymore? But at the same time, independence remains possible without all of the provisions of residential care? Clearly, seniors need a wider range of housing options to match their needs. Today, assisted living, a middle option between home care and residential care, is an increasingly popular option.

Assisted living homes are private apartments within a development that offers support services such as meals, housekeeping, a 24-hour response system, personal care, assistance with medications, and social and recreational programs.

“Assisted living allows seniors to live more independently and provides another option that wasn’t available until recently,” says Val MacDonald, Executive Director of the Seniors Housing Information Program (SHIP), a non-profit organization that provides housing information about the Lower Mainland for seniors. She urges seniors to learn about all their housing options. “The emphasis with assisted living is on independence rather than the traditional nursing home model that residential care provides,” she notes.

Private sector operators have traditionally developed assisted living homes for seniors who can afford to pay market rates. Now, the province, in partnership with the federal government, the regional health authorities, and private and non-profit housing providers, has created the Independent Living BC (ILBC) program to provide subsidized assisted living options. The program does not replace residential care; instead, it’s a middle option for seniors who need some assistance with daily activities, but who do not need 24-hour care.

“The Independent Living BC program makes assisted living affordable and provides the necessary supports for seniors to remain independent in a social and supportive atmosphere,” says Margaret Coates, Executive Director at the 411 Seniors Centre Society in Vancouver.