Liberals would increase care grant eligibility, helping additional 3,500 seniors

Nova Scotia Liberals said on Wednesday that if elected, they would raise the threshold for access to a program that helps seniors maintain their properties.

The changes would help an additional 3,500 seniors access the Seniors Care Grant by raising the eligibility threshold from $45,000 in annual household income to $50,000. The party would also double the non-taxable grant amount to $1,500 per year.

Leader Zach Churchill announced the party’s plans to help seniors on Wednesday. If elected, the party anticipates awarding over 39,000 grants per year for an annual total cost of more than $59 million. The increase would cost $32 million a year. 

“This will help pay for the essential expenses like home repairs, phone bills, transportation,” Churchill said. 

He said the Liberals want to help seniors stay in their homes longer. He said a Liberal government would develop a comprehensive seniors housing strategy to help seniors find housing that meets their needs. The plan includes spending $5 million over four years on programs that help seniors upgrade their homes, such as widening hallways or installing ramps. 

“Financial support is just one part of the puzzle,” he said. “Many seniors want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.”

Churchill said the party would also develop housing options with seniors in mind, such as small walkable communities with homes for seniors or apartment buildings with wellness supports.

He said the party would also work with non-profits to ensure there is affordable housing for seniors who are looking to downsize. This would include reforming the property tax system, so seniors are not financially penalized for downsizing. 

Churchill said seniors in Nova Scotia live an active lifestyle and the Liberals want to keep them connected to their communities.

“The main goal is to make sure that our seniors can stay connected and live active, healthy lifestyles,” he said.

Churchill also announced improved support for seniors who opt to stay in their homes. He said the party would train and hire more home care workers. The party would look to increase numbers in every home care position, including nurses and continuing care assistants.

He said a Liberal government would work with Nova Scotia Community College to establish how many new training programs are needed in order to fill positions as quickly as possible.

The plan involves spending $10 million a year to improve working conditions for home care workers and provide more reliable hours.

“Our seniors certainly have spent their lives contributing to our province, to their families, to our communities,” he said. “We want to make sure that they continue to do that.”