AHS: Understanding the Health Care Structure and Continuing Care Options for Alberta Seniors

Navigating health care in Canada can sometimes feel overwhelming, but understanding the structure and options available can make a world of difference, especially when it comes to planning for the future. Alberta Health Services (AHS) plays a significant role in providing health care across Alberta, offering various programs and services tailored to meet the needs of individuals at every stage of life. For seniors and caregivers, it’s important to understand the options that are available in order to make informed choices that align with each individual’s lifestyle, health, and personal preferences. At Park Place Seniors Living, we strive to support and empower families and individuals in our Canadian seniors living homes in order to provide the highest quality of care and services delivered with warmth and compassion.

Here, we’ll take a closer look at the Alberta Health continuing care structure by summarizing the latest changes and information available online. Keep reading for a deeper dive.

Understanding the Changes to Continuing Care Types & Terms

The Government of Alberta has simplified the way that they describe the various continuing care settings that are available to support seniors and other members of the community. Here’s a quick overview on the three continuing care home license types:

 

Type A (formerly long-term care, nursing homes, or auxiliary hospitals): For people with complex medical needs who are unable to remain safely at home, in a supportive living accommodation, or a lower level of continuing care home. Residents of Type A continuing care homes receive: accommodation; meals; access to 24-hour on-site professional nursing and personal care; and consultative services, such as case management, professional nursing, rehabilitation therapy, and other consultative services provided by on-site facility staff.

 

Type B (formerly designated supportive living): For people with various levels of medical needs who are unable to remain safely in supportive living accommodations or in their homes. Residents of Type B continuing care homes receive: accommodation; meals; and access to specialized 24-hour on-site scheduled and unscheduled personal care and support services from health care aides or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). 

 

Type C (publicly funded hospice settings): Settings where operators are contracted to provide publicly funded hospice care to people who require specialized end-of-life care. Residents of Type C continuing care homes receive: accommodation, meals, and access to 24-hour on-site scheduled and unscheduled health and personal care support.

Continuing Care Services

Continuing care services are designed to support Alberta seniors in maintaining their health, independence, and quality of life, whether they reside at home, in supportive living, or in long-term care. These services provide personalized assistance and medical care to meet a wide range of needs, ensuring seniors can age with dignity and comfort. All continuing care homes provide 24-hour publicly funded health and personal care support on-site. From daily living tasks to specialized health care, continuing care offers essential support to seniors and their families. Continuing care services include help with tasks such as:

 

  • Dressing
  • Eating
  • Bathing
  • Meal preparation
  • Respite
  • Wound care
  • Medication administration
  • Many other healthcare and support services 

Home and Community Care

Home and Community Care (previously home care) offers publicly funded health and personal care services to people of all ages, helping them live safely and independently at home or in community settings like retirement residences. These services include help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, or eating, as well as professional health support like nursing and rehabilitation therapy. Designed to meet both short- and long-term care needs, home and community care aims to complement the support provided by family and friends, ensuring individuals can maintain their well-being and independence in a familiar environment. 

Supportive Living Accommodations (previously known as independent living)

Supportive living bridges the gap between fully independent living and long-term care, offering a unique blend of independence and support. For many seniors, this option provides the ideal environment to maintain their quality of life while receiving assistance with daily tasks or health needs — including dressing, eating, wound care, medication assistance, and more. A full list of these services can be found here. In seniors living communities like Park Place Seniors Living, supportive living is designed to promote dignity, choice, and a sense of community.

Benefits of Supportive Living Accommodations

Choosing supportive living offers numerous advantages for seniors and their families. These benefits extend beyond meeting healthcare needs to encompass emotional, social, and mental well-being. An Alberta Health case manager can determine if supportive living accommodations are the right for your unique needs and lifestyle.

  1. Tailored Care: Supportive living ensures residents receive care designed to match their specific requirements. This tailored approach fosters a sense of security and peace of mind for both residents and their loved ones.

  2. Community Connection: Living in a supportive environment, such as Park Place Seniors Living, means becoming part of a vibrant community. Regular activities, shared meals, and social events help combat loneliness and build meaningful relationships.

  3. Enhanced Safety: With staff available to assist at all times, supportive living provides a safe and secure environment. Features like emergency call systems, accessible building layouts, and medication management services add an extra layer of safety.

  4. Independence with Assistance: Unlike long-term care, supportive living allows seniors to maintain their independence while having help readily available when needed. 

Additional Support and Resources

For additional information and specific questions regarding Alberta Health’s services and continuing care:

 

Flexible, Warm and Compassionate Care

As one of Canada’s leading providers of seniors’ care and services, Park Place Seniors Living offers a range of continuing care and supportive living options tailored to meet diverse needs. Residents benefit from modern amenities, thoughtfully designed spaces, and compassionate care delivered by dedicated professionals. 

Beyond health care, Park Place communities also prioritize social engagement and well-being. Residents enjoy access to wellness programs, exercise classes, and enriching activities, creating a holistic living experience that supports both body and mind. Interested in finding a Park Place retirement community near you? Head to our location finder page to discover where our communities are located before you book a tour.