Supportive Housing

Introduction to Supportive Housing

Supportive Housing residences are typically apartment-style accommodations that provide supportive services such as housekeeping, companionship, meal preparation and/or communal dining, social and recreation programs, 24-hour emergency response, shopping assistance and transportation. The tenure is usually on a rental basis often with a standard service package included in the rent. There is usually a menu of optional fee-for-services made available as well. In some cases, the Supportive Housing units are fully "self-contained" (each having its own kitchen) so that the meal program might be optional.

Supportive Housing options provide both the advantages of living independently in an apartment and the availability of supportive services and amenities typically provided in full-service retirement residences.

More About Supportive Housing

Supportive Housing residences are usually multi-storey apartment buildings, these options offer accommodation in spacious studio, one bedroom and two bedroom apartment suites, most with full kitchens or kitchenettes. Tenure is usually on a life-lease, condominium or rental basis. Many such Supportive Housing residences are operated by not-for-profit organizations and are partially funded through the Ministry of Health's Supportive Housing Program. In these cases, a number of Supportive Housing units are made available on a rent-geared-to-income basis. In some cases, the purchase of a minimum supportive services package is mandatory which may include services such as concierge, 24 hour emergency response, social/recreational programs and one or two daily meals. Additional meals and supportive services can often be purchased on an as needed basis.

Specifically in Alberta, they have implemented a Seniors Lodge Program where a congregate living setting that provides a private room, meals, housekeeping, linen laundry and life enrichment services for senior citizens who are functionally independent but are not capable of maintaining or do not desire to maintain their own home, including services that may be provided to them because of their circumstances. Services beyond these basic offerings may vary depending on the lodge and the community. Typically, lodges are administered by management bodies and operate under the Alberta Housing Act.

A philosophy and an approach for providing services within a housing environment. It provides a home-like setting where people can maintain control over their lives while also receiving the support they need. The Government of Alberta has defined four levels of supportive living: residential level, lodge level, assisted living, and enhanced assisted living. These facilities offer increasing levels of hospitality and personal care support services to match the needs of residents. The buildings are specifically designed with common areas and features to allow individuals to "age in place." Building features include private space and a safe, secure and barrier-free environment. Supportive living promotes residents' independence and aging in place through the provision of services such as 24-hour monitoring, emergency response, security, meals, housekeeping, and life enrichment activities. Publicly funded personal care and health services are provided to supportive living residents based on their assessed, unmet needs.

Many Supportive Housing residences offer common amenities such as lounges, an activity room, games room, dining room and others for the enjoyment of residents and their guests.

Tips on Choosing Supportive Housing

Finding an appropriate Supportive Housing residence takes time and research, but you're already headed in the right direction with The Care Guide. Use The Care Guide, as well as TheCareGuide.com, to identify the Supportive Housing residences in the desired area and call ahead to schedule a tour of each. Try to observe "a day in the life" at the Supportive Housing residence - perhaps attend some activities or stay for a meal, if applicable. Also, talk to residents about their perceptions of the Supportive Housing residence, ask for sample menus and an activity calendar, and inquire about a trial stay as means of "kicking the tires" so to speak.

Since these Supportive Housing residences often vary in terms of the services provided, it is important to ensure that you understand what services are included in the posted rental rates, and what services, if any, are available at an additional cost.

Other things to consider in selecting an appropriate Supportive Housing residence include its location and availability of transportation for shopping, outings and medical appointments, proximity to community amenities such as hospitals and churches, safety and security issues and the cleanliness of the Supportive Housing residence.

Feel free to contact us at 1-800-311-CARE or info@thecareguide.com should you have any questions or require further assistance in finding appropriate Supportive Housing options.