Frequently Asked Questions

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Assisted living offers personal care and hospitality services provided in a private apartment unit.  You maintain your independence and privacy while being supported with services such as meals, flat laundry, housekeeping, social and recreational activities and personal care. Assisted living services fit between home health services provided in your home and residential care services.

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A service plan is developed to manage your health and well-being.  Depending on your needs, services may include:

• personal assistance with activities like bathing, grooming and dressing
• medication management (if necessary)
• 24-hour emergency response service
• unscheduled personal care is available
• security features (i.e., alarm system, locked building, alarm system, etc)

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The following hospitality services are provided:

• option for three meals per day (basic rent includes cost of two meals per day)
• organized programs of activities and social opportunities
• laundry service for linens and towels
• weekly housekeeping

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Each site varies but the following positions are typical of the staff you may find at a publicly subsidized assisted living residence:

• manager
• administrative assistant
• Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse
• assisted living worker
• hospitality staff (housekeeping, laundry, cook, etc.)

Rehabilitation therapists, home care nurses and other professionals are accessible through your local Home Health office.

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Publicly subsidized assisted living is intended to be affordable for all individuals, regardless of income.  Residents pay 70% of their after-tax income for a full package of services.  Individuals with high incomes pay up to a maximum amount, based on the actual cost of accommodation, hospitality service and personal care.

You must meet the eligibility criteria to live in a publicly subsidized assisted living residence.  Eligibility is based on your personal care needs and this funding can not be transferred or used elsewhere.

Private pay assisted living services are available throughout BC.  If you are interested in private pay assisted living you can access these programs through the provider and do not need to be assessed by a Fraser Health Home Health Case Manager.  Accommodation in a private pay residence is offered at market price set by the operator.  For more information on private pay assisted living, please visit www.thecareguide.com.

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Managers of assisted living communities are required to register with the Office of the Assisted Living Registrar.  Each assisted living residence must meet health and safety standards as required by the registrar's office and the Community Care and Assisted Living Act.  Assisted living services subsidized by Fraser Health are subject to contractual agreements that outline performance and management expectations.

If you have a concern, please meet directly with the people managing your assisted living residence.  If a resolution cannot be reached, or you feel uncomfortable approaching the management directly, contact your case manager or the Office of the Assisted Living Registrar.

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Each assisted living residence has its own look and style. Typically, a one bedroom apartment or studio suite includes a kitchenette, bathroom and sleeping area.  Each assisted living unit is designed to maximize independence and privacy.

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Yes.  All Fraser Health assisted living suites are unfurnished and residents are expected to furnish their own suite.

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Yes. Residents may host guests overnight on occasion.

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No.  Smoking is not permitted in any of the Fraser Health assisted living buildings, although some residences may have a designated outdoor smoking area.  Please check with the assisted living residence if this is important to you. Please note - smoking anywhere in an assisted living residence, when prohibited, can lead to eviction.  Non-smoking bylaws and building rules are strictly enforced.

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A limited number of assisted living residences do permit small pets.  Your Home Health Case Manager will be able to provide you with information about specific sites that allow pets.