Senior Care Insurance & Coverage
Understanding insurance options for senior care services to help manage costs and ensure quality care. Navigate government programs, private insurance, and funding options across Canadian provinces.
Government Programs
Provincial health insurance, home care, and long-term care funding programs.
Private Insurance
Extended health benefits, supplemental coverage, and specialized senior care insurance.
Financial Assistance
Subsidies, tax credits, and financial support programs for senior care costs.
Province/Territory Funding Programs
Ontario Senior Care Programs
Coverage
Extended health benefits for seniors 65+
Eligibility
Age 65+, Ontario resident
Coverage
Personal care, nursing, therapy services
Eligibility
Medical assessment required
Coverage
Accommodation and care in LTC facilities
Eligibility
Care needs assessment
Private Insurance Options
Sun Life
Extended HealthPrescription drugs, dental, vision
Manulife
Travel & HealthTravel insurance, supplemental health
Great-West Life
Group BenefitsExtended health, disability
Blue Cross
Individual PlansHospital, drug, travel coverage
What to Look For in Private Insurance
- •Coverage Limits: Annual and lifetime maximums for different services
- •Waiting Periods: Time before coverage begins for certain conditions
- •Pre-existing Conditions: How existing health issues are covered
- •Network Providers: Which care homes and providers are covered
Additional Financial Support
Tax Credits & Deductions
- • Medical Expense Tax Credit (Federal)
- • Caregiver Credit (Federal)
- • Disability Tax Credit (if applicable)
- • Home Accessibility Tax Credit
Support Programs
- • Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- • Old Age Security (OAS)
- • Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
- • Veterans Affairs benefits
How to Apply for Funding
Government Programs
- Contact your provincial health authority
- Complete a care needs assessment
- Provide required documentation
- Wait for approval and placement
Private Insurance
- Research and compare insurance providers
- Get quotes from multiple companies
- Review policy terms and conditions
- Apply and undergo medical underwriting
Popular Official Resources by Province and Territory
Links below go to official government websites for high‑level program information. Coverage and eligibility vary by province; always verify details on the official pages.
Ontario
ServiceOntario: 1-866-532-3161
British Columbia
Health Links BC: 8-1-1
Alberta
Health Link Alberta: 8-1-1
Manitoba
Government of Manitoba – Health
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan – HealthLine 811
New Brunswick
New Brunswick – Tele‑Care 811
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Health – 811
Prince Edward Island
Health PEI – 811
Newfoundland and Labrador
Government of NL – HealthLine 811
Yukon
Government of Yukon – Health and Social Services
Northwest Territories
GNWT – Health and Social Services
Nunavut
Government of Nunavut – Department of Health
United States Resources
These official resources explain Medicare, Medicaid long‑term services and supports, and how to find local aging services. For state‑specific details, use the state directories below.
Medicare
Federal health insurance for people 65+ and certain disabilities.
Medicaid LTSS
Info on Medicaid long‑term services and supports.
Eldercare Locator (ACL)
Find local aging and caregiver support services.
State Medicaid Agencies
Official contacts for each state’s Medicaid program.
State Health Departments
Find your state or territorial health department.
Administration for Community Living
Federal agency supporting older adults and people with disabilities.
Information here is general. For benefits and eligibility, consult your state’s Medicaid agency and health department.
Frequently Asked Questions
What senior care costs are typically covered by government programs?
In Canada, publicly funded long-term care (nursing homes) generally covers clinical and personal care based on assessed needs. Residents usually pay an income-based accommodation co-payment. Home and community care services may be subsidized after assessment. Retirement homes and assisted living are typically private pay.
Does private insurance pay for long-term care or retirement homes?
Most extended health plans do not cover room and board in long-term care or retirement homes. Some plans may include limited home-care or paramedical benefits. Stand-alone long-term care insurance policies exist but availability and coverage vary—review your policy or speak with your insurer.
How are eligibility and fees determined?
Eligibility and fees are set by provincial/territorial programs. An authorized assessment determines care needs, placement, and any co-payment. Wait-lists are managed by local health authorities. Exact rules, rates, and processes vary by province.
Are there tax credits or financial supports for seniors?
Many seniors can claim federal and provincial tax credits or benefits for eligible medical expenses and disability supports. Availability depends on personal circumstances and jurisdiction—consult the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and your provincial programs for current details.
Where should I start the process?
Contact your local health authority or family physician for an assessment and guidance on options. You can also call 211 for local community supports. For private retirement living, contact residences directly to discuss services, pricing, and availability.
Information here is general and may change. Confirm with your provincial health authority and your insurer.
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
Our care coordinators can help you understand funding options, apply for programs, and find the right financial support for your situation.