More funding and supports available for Island seniors
Program changes provide more money and supports to help Island seniors living in their own homes.
The Seniors Independence Initiative offers financial assistance for light housekeeping, home maintenance, snow removal, grass cutting, meal preparation, and transportation. Improvements to the program means better access to these services, as well as new supports, to make it easier for seniors to live in their own homes and communities.
“Not only have we increased the income thresholds, but we have also changed the eligibility to make the application and reimbursement process simpler for Islanders,” says Brad Trivers, Minister of Social Development and Housing. “We want to make sure Island seniors have the support they need to stay in their homes and communities of choice for as long as possible.”
New changes to the program mean:
- seniors are now eligible for a disability parking pass and lifeline medical alert;
- seniors no longer need to be assessed to receive financial support;
- family members are eligible service providers if they do not live in the same home as the senior;
- income thresholds have increased to a maximum of $26,500 for a single person and to a maximum of $34,000 for a couple.
The program provides up to $1,500 annually in financial assistance for services based on income.
Media contact:
Rebecca Gass
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Social Development and Housing
rjgass@gov.pe.ca