$7M to make continuing care homes more home-like

By Your Southwest Media Group

The Government of Alberta is investing more than $7 million to improve quality of life in continuing care homes, with a focus on making facilities feel more like home for residents.

The funding will support upgrades in 52 provincially funded continuing care homes across the province, affecting more than 4,000 residents.

A resident poses with a mural at the Hanna Health Centre.

“Where you live matters, especially as you age,” said Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. “We’re making continuing care feel more like home.”

The improvements are aimed at shifting care environments away from clinical settings toward warmer, more comfortable spaces. Projects include installing murals to help residents with memory or cognitive challenges navigate their surroundings, incorporating culturally familiar meals, and creating opportunities for intergenerational programming with local children.

Facilities are also adding technology to help residents stay connected with family and expanding hands-on activities such as gardening to build a stronger sense of community.

Toby Schneider, acting CEO of Assisted Living Alberta, said the changes support dignity and person-centred care.

“Aging with dignity begins in places that truly feel like home,” Schneider said.

The province said projects are guided by feedback from residents and staff to ensure improvements reflect the needs of each facility.

The investment is part of a broader expansion of continuing care in Alberta. The province has committed billions over the next decade, including an initial $400 million for shovel-ready projects. Since 2019, more than $750 million has been spent to create over 3,000 new continuing care spaces.

Alberta currently has about 30,000 provincially subsidized continuing care spaces and more than 240 home and community care providers. The province’s senior population is projected to exceed one million within the next decade, with one in five Albertans expected to be over 65 within 20 years.