Vancouver

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Seniors' Benefits

Programs and resources aimed at supporting elderly residents, including health and recreational services.

Sections

1. Federal Benefits for Seniors

The Government of Canada provides several key programs for seniors, which are accessible to residents of Vancouver. These include:

a. Old Age Security (OAS)

  • What it is: A monthly payment available to most Canadians aged 65 and older.
  • Eligibility: Must be 65 or older, a Canadian citizen or legal resident, and meet residency requirements (at least 10 years in Canada after age 18).
  • Cost: Free to apply.
  • How to Apply:
    1. Apply online through your My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or by mail.
    2. You may be automatically enrolled if you meet eligibility criteria.
    3. Visit the Service Canada office in Vancouver for assistance.
  • Local Office: Service Canada Centre, 1263 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC.

b. Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)

  • What it is: A monthly non-taxable benefit for low-income seniors who receive OAS.
  • Eligibility: Must be receiving OAS and meet income thresholds.
  • Cost: Free to apply.
  • How to Apply:
    1. Submit an application through Service Canada.
    2. Provide income information (e.g., tax returns).
  • Local Office: Service Canada Centre, 1263 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC.

c. Canada Pension Plan (CPP)

  • What it is: A retirement pension based on contributions made during your working years.
  • Eligibility: Must have contributed to CPP and be at least 60 years old.
  • Cost: Contributions are deducted during your working years; no cost to apply.
  • How to Apply:
    1. Apply online through My Service Canada Account or by mail.
    2. Provide your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and banking information for direct deposit.
  • Local Office: Service Canada Centre, 1263 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC.

2. Provincial Benefits for Seniors (British Columbia)

The Province of British Columbia offers additional programs for seniors living in Vancouver.

a. BC Seniors' Supplement

  • What it is: A monthly top-up for low-income seniors receiving federal OAS and GIS.
  • Eligibility: Must be receiving OAS and GIS and meet income thresholds.
  • Cost: Free to apply.
  • How to Apply: Automatically assessed when you apply for GIS. Contact the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction for questions.
  • Contact: 1-866-866-0800.

b. Fair PharmaCare

  • What it is: A program that helps cover the cost of prescription drugs and medical supplies.
  • Eligibility: Based on income; seniors aged 65+ are eligible for enhanced coverage.
  • Cost: No enrollment fee; you pay a deductible based on your income.
  • How to Apply:
    1. Register online at the Fair PharmaCare website.
    2. Provide your BC Services Card number and income information.
  • Local Office: Call Health Insurance BC at 1-800-663-7100 for assistance.

c. Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER)

  • What it is: A program that provides monthly cash payments to help low-income seniors with rent.
  • Eligibility: Must be 60+ years old, renting in the private market, and meet income and rent thresholds.
  • Cost: Free to apply.
  • How to Apply:
    1. Download the application form from BC Housingโ€™s website.
    2. Submit the completed form by mail or email.
  • Contact: BC Housing, 1-800-257-7756.

d. Medical Services Plan (MSP) Premium Assistance

  • What it is: Reduced or no-cost health care coverage for low-income seniors.
  • Eligibility: Based on income.
  • Cost: Free for eligible seniors.
  • How to Apply:
    1. Apply online through the MSP website or by mail.
    2. Provide income information and proof of residency.
  • Contact: Health Insurance BC, 1-800-663-7100.

3. Municipal and Community-Based Services in Vancouver

The City of Vancouver and local organizations provide additional support for seniors.

a. Vancouver Park Board Seniors' Programs

  • What it is: Recreational programs, fitness classes, and social activities for seniors.
  • Eligibility: Open to all seniors in Vancouver.
  • Cost: Fees vary; discounts available for low-income seniors.
  • How to Access:
    1. Visit your local community centre (e.g., Kerrisdale, West End, or Trout Lake).
    2. Register online or in person.
  • Contact: Call 3-1-1 for information on programs near you.

b. Seniors' Transportation Services

  • HandyDART: A door-to-door shared ride service for seniors with mobility challenges.
    • Cost: Fares are similar to public transit.
    • How to Apply: Register through TransLink by calling 604-953-3680.
  • Taxi Saver Program: Provides discounted taxi vouchers for seniors.
    • Eligibility: Must be registered with HandyDART.
    • Contact: TransLink, 604-953-3680.

c. Seniors' Centres and Support Services

  • What they offer: Meal programs, social activities, and support services.
  • Examples:
    • South Granville Seniors Centre: Offers meals, fitness classes, and workshops.
    • West End Seniors' Network: Provides social programs, transportation assistance, and advocacy.
  • Cost: Membership fees may apply; subsidies available.
  • How to Access: Contact the centres directly for program details.

d. Property Tax Deferment Program

  • What it is: A low-interest loan program to help seniors defer property taxes.
  • Eligibility: Must be 55+ years old and own your home.
  • Cost: Interest applies but is lower than market rates.
  • How to Apply:
    1. Apply online through the BC Government website.
    2. Provide proof of age and homeownership.
  • Contact: City of Vancouver Property Tax Office, 604-873-7000.

4. Additional Resources for Seniors in Vancouver

  • Seniors First BC: Provides legal advice, advocacy, and support for elder abuse prevention.
    • Contact: 604-688-1927.
  • 211 British Columbia: A free helpline that connects seniors to local resources and services.
    • Contact: Dial 2-1-1 or visit bc211.ca.
  • Better at Home Program: Offers non-medical support services like housekeeping and grocery shopping.
    • Contact: 604-268-1312.

5. Tips for Accessing Seniors' Benefits in Vancouver

  • Prepare Documentation: Have your Social Insurance Number (SIN), proof of age, residency, and income information ready.
  • Use Online Portals: Many programs allow online applications, which can save time.
  • Visit Local Offices: Service Canada and BC Government offices in Vancouver can provide in-person assistance.
  • Ask for Help: Community organizations like the West End Seniors' Network can guide you through the application process.

By leveraging these resources, seniors in Vancouver can access a wide range of benefits and services to enhance their quality of life. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!