British Columbia is transforming care services for seniors in this province.

For the past four years, government has been working in partnership with the non-profit and private sectors to support British Columbia seniors to live as independently as possible, for as long as possible.

Many of the changes are focused on keeping seniors well, active and contributing to their communities. With recent advances in medical technology and prescription drugs, it is hardly surprising that the vast majority of British Columbia seniors live in the community. Many seniors are in very good health and are active, contributing members of their families and communities.

There will always be seniors who need a higher level of care. At this time, approximately six per cent of all British Columbia seniors live in publicly-funded residential care facilities that provide 24/7 professional nursing assistance.

Government is responding to this trend by providing 5,000 new care beds and units for seniors and people with disabilities by 2008 and by developing innovative community options, such as expanded adult day programs and after-hours response teams. The province has already developed or upgraded thousands of publicly-funded residential care beds and assisted living and supportive housing units with home support. Annual spending for seniors’ care has increased by about $25 million since 2001 and will expand by another $75 million by 2006.

Now that assisted living residences are operating in 33 communities throughout the province, today’s seniors have more affordable, independent housing and care options. As an example, St. Francis by the Sea in Victoria is a welcoming home for seniors who can direct their own care, but need some assistance with personal care. Home support workers visit residents as needed, enabling them to live in the community they have chosen to call home.

For those who need 24/7 assistance, patient care has been improved through upgrades to aging residential care facilities and the creation of new beds where needed.

End-of-life services are also part of planning for seniors’ care. Since 2001, seniors nearing the end of their life have had enhanced coverage for at-home medications, medical supplies and equipment through the B.C. Palliative Care Benefits Program.

Programs like these are all part of the government-wide effort to ensure that B.C. seniors have the right care, in the right setting.