Better choices for senior’s accommodations

Sharon McLeay
Times Contributor

 

With June 6-12 dedicated to Seniors Week, Wheatland County councillors turned their attention to seniors housing at the June 7 council meeting.
Reeve Glenn Koester said he has been in discussions with the Alberta government about funding for seniors accommodations in the Wheatland area. He said he has been asked to meet with representatives of the seniors and housing ministries about this areas housing needs.
“The government seems sincere about getting planning done,” said Koester.
He said developing a concept plan, complete with a needs assessment, for housing in the region would go a long way with government officials. Koester said he felt the tone was very good for future building prospects in Wheatland County.
With Sagewood Age Care and Wheatland Lodge full, along with long waiting lists for both, the housing shortage is a concern for the community. It was suggested the various municipalities in Wheatland County meet and develop a plan. He said the government would like to see multiuse plans, providing all levels of care, and it encourages municipalities to work together. When asked if initiatives for smaller complexes might be considered for small rural towns and villages, Koester said the government seemed to lean toward facilities in larger urban centres.
The Alberta government is gathering public input into what Albertans would like to see for housing initiatives and a survey can be completed. It is located online at (http://www.seniors-housing.alberta.ca/housing/affordable_housing_strategy_engagement.htm).
The government is also close to passing an initiative that will give financial support in keeping senior residents in their own homes longer. Bill 5 has passed third reading and went for Royal assent on May 27, 2016.
If passed, the seniors’ Home Adaptation and Repair program will be effective July 1, 2016.
“The program will help seniors remain secure and independent in their own homes. In addition to the loan program, we are restoring two million dollars in grants for seniors who are most in need,” said Senior’s Minister Lori Sigurdson. “Seniors have told us that being able to stay in their homes and communities, as long as they choose or as long as they are able, is vital to their independence and quality of life.”
Repairs and upgrades to seniors’ homes for reasons of health, safety, accessibility and energy efficiency will be considered. Low interest loans up to $40,000 will be granted, based on a home equity of at least 25 per cent, and will be available to senior home owners with incomes under $75,000. The loan repayment is due when the house is sold or the owner passes away. There will also be a grant component for those low income seniors who don’t qualify. Protections for seniors on the work being done and cancelation of contracts are also included in the bill. The program is expected help about 260,000 Alberta seniors throughout the province.