Mobility & Physical Support for Seniors in BC

5 resources listed

Maintaining mobility is one of the most important factors in a senior's quality of life and independence. BC offers several programs to help with medical equipment, home modifications, and therapy services that support physical function.

From wheelchair and walker loans through the Red Cross to home modification grants through BC Housing, these programs can make it possible for seniors to live safely at home longer or transition more comfortably into care settings.

Programs & Services

BC Equipment & Assistive Devices Program

BC Ministry of Health

Provides wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, bath seats, and other mobility equipment for eligible BC residents. Items are provided on loan at no charge.

Who qualifies: BC residents with a demonstrated physical need, assessed by an occupational therapist or physiotherapist.

How to apply: Your therapist will complete an assessment and submit the equipment request to the program on your behalf.

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Canadian Red Cross — Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP)

Canadian Red Cross

Short-term loans of wheelchairs, walkers, bath benches, and crutches for people recovering from illness or injury.

Who qualifies: Open to all BC residents. No income test required. Equipment is loaned free of charge.

How to apply: Visit a Red Cross HELP location in your community. Find locations at redcross.ca or call 1-800-418-1111.

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BC Housing — Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI)

BC Housing

Grants up to $20,000 for home modifications that help seniors and people with disabilities live independently. Covers ramps, grab bars, bathroom modifications, and widened doorways.

Who qualifies: Low-income BC homeowners or landlords (on behalf of eligible tenants) with a household member who has a permanent disability or is a senior with mobility challenges.

How to apply: Apply through BC Housing online or by calling 604-433-2218 (Lower Mainland) or 1-800-257-7756 (rest of BC).

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MSP-Covered Physiotherapy

BC Ministry of Health

MSP covers physiotherapy for eligible conditions when provided in hospital outpatient clinics, community health centres, or through Home & Community Care.

Who qualifies: BC residents with MSP coverage. Private clinic physiotherapy is not covered, but supplementary insurance may apply.

How to apply: Ask your doctor for a referral to a hospital-based or community physiotherapy program, or contact your health authority's Home & Community Care office.

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March of Dimes — Assistive Devices Program

March of Dimes Canada

Provides assistive devices, home accessibility assessments, and community support programs for people with physical disabilities.

Who qualifies: People with physical disabilities living in communities served by March of Dimes programs.

How to apply: Contact March of Dimes at 1-800-263-3463 or visit marchofdimes.ca for BC program availability.

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