The number of senior Ontarians is quickly growing, and it is estimated that, by 2041, 25% of the population in Ontario will be 65 and over - almost doubling since 2016. In response to this, as well as other factors, the Ontario Government has decided to implement new programs as part of the 2018 provincial budget to further assist seniors, those 65 years of age and older.
In doing so, the provincial government is attempting to improve the life of seniors and help them to remain in their homes longer.
As part of these changes, Ontario implemented two programs that affect senior taxpayers – an expanded prescription drug program and the Seniors Healthy Home Program. In addition, the government will be investing more money into seniors in Ontario.
Prescription Drug Coverage
The Ontario Government has expanded the OHIP program for seniors, 65 years of age and older, which makes prescription drugs free.
Prior to these changes, seniors were charged an annual deductible and co-pay of $240, which will no longer be imposed as of August 1, 2019.
Seniors Healthy Home Program
While there are a number of benefits, credits and programs aimed at assisting senior Canadians to afford their cost of living, one of the biggest problems facing seniors is being unable to stay in their homes as long as they would like to.
In response, the Government of Ontario has implemented the new Seniors Healthy Home Program for seniors aged 75 and older which will offer up to $750 to help offset the cost of living in their homes, independently.
Details of the program are still being worked out and have yet to be announced.
Additional Investments
In addition, to the above programs, the Ontario Government has also committed to investing more into improving the life of our aging population.
This includes $650 million to help expand home and community care programs over the next three years, including $180 million to increase the number of personal support hours, nursing and therapy visits and respite care.
They will also be investing $8.8 million to support at least 44 naturally occurring retirement communities, as well as $34.5 million to expand dementia programs.
“Supporting Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities is smart and it’s the right thing to do. We know seniors value their independence, so it makes sense to bring services to where they live, to the community level. This is about building communities that are age-friendly for everyone.” - Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs
Finally, the Ontario government will be promoting social, health, and community support by working with Local Health Integration Units partnering with seniors and community groups.
For more information about these newly introduced programs and how they may affect you or your senior loved ones, contact us today.
