The government of Canada offers the Home Adaptations for Seniors’ Independence (HASI) program as a financial assistance program. The program helps First Nation on-reserve seniors make necessary adaptations to their homes in order to maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) administers the HASI program. It is designed to help seniors with low to moderate incomes afford the costs of necessary home adaptations.
Who Is The HASI Program Available To?
The HASI program is available to First Nations Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are at least 60 years old and have a low to moderate income. To be eligible for the program, seniors must also own their own home on-reserve or be in the process of purchasing one. In order to apply for the HASI program, seniors must first identify the adaptations that are necessary to make their home more accessible and safe. This may involve consulting with a healthcare professional or occupational therapist, who can help identify any specific needs or challenges that the senior may be facing.
Once the necessary adaptations have been identified, seniors can then apply for the HASI program through the CMHC website or by contacting their local CMHC office. When applying for the program, seniors will need to provide proof of their age, citizenship or permanent residency status, and income. They will also need to provide detailed information about the adaptations that are needed, including an estimate of the costs involved.
The HASI program provides financial assistance to seniors in the form of a forgivable loan. This means that the loan does not have to be repaid as long as the senior continues to live in their home for a certain number of years. The amount of the loan is based on the cost of the adaptations. It is also generally limited to a maximum of $20,000. Seniors who are approved for the HASI program may also be eligible for additional funding through other programs or sources, such as provincial or territorial home modification programs or charitable organizations.
The Home Adaptations for Seniors’ Independence (HASI) program is available over and above the Old Age Security Payment Schedule (2023) and the Canadian Pension Plan Payment Schedule (2023).
When Can I Start My Renovations?
Once the HASI application has been approved, the senior can begin making the necessary adaptations to their home. These may include modifications such as installing handrails, adding a wheelchair ramp, converting a room into a first-floor bedroom, or making bathroom renovations. In order to ensure that the adaptations are completed in a safe and effective manner, the senior may need to hire contractors or other professionals to complete the work.
The HASI program is just one of many resources available to seniors in Canada who are looking to maintain their independence and remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Other resources that may be helpful for seniors include home care services, community support programs, and financial assistance programs for seniors. By taking advantage of these resources, seniors can make the necessary adaptations to their homes and continue to live independently and safely in their own homes.
What Other Resources Are Available To Seniors?
In addition to the HASI program, there are a number of other resources available to seniors in Canada who are looking to maintain their independence and remain in their own homes for as long as possible. One such resource is home care services, which can provide seniors with assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. These services can be particularly helpful for seniors who may have difficulty completing these tasks on their own due to physical limitations or cognitive impairments.
Community support programs can also be a valuable resource for seniors looking to maintain their independence. These programs may offer a variety of services and activities, such as transportation, meals, social activities, and health and wellness programs. Community support programs can help seniors stay connected to their communities and access the resources and support they need to live independently.
Financial assistance programs for seniors can provide much-needed support for those who may be struggling to afford the costs of maintaining their homes or paying for necessary adaptations. These programs may include assistance with housing costs, such as property taxes or mortgage payments, as well as financial assistance for home adaptations.
Examples Of Home Improvements Covered By HASI
As people age, it becomes increasingly important for them to be able to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible. This not only allows seniors to maintain their sense of independence and autonomy, but it can also be more cost-effective and convenient than moving into a long-term care facility.
However, as individuals age, it may become necessary to make certain adaptations to their homes in order to accommodate any physical limitations or challenges they may face. These adaptations can range from small changes, such as installing handrails or grab bars, to more significant renovations, such as adding a wheelchair ramp or converting a room into a first-floor bedroom.
If you are a senior or care for a senior who is looking to make their home more accessible and safe, here are some ideas that would be covered by the program.
Install Handrails And Grab Bars
Handrails and grab bars can be installed along walls and in bathrooms to provide extra support and stability when standing or moving around. These can be especially helpful for individuals who may have difficulty balancing or are at risk of falling.
Add A Wheelchair Ramp
If you or a loved one uses a wheelchair, adding a wheelchair ramp to the front of your home can make it easier to enter and exit the house. There are many different types of ramps available, ranging from portable, temporary options to more permanent, built-in ramps.
Install A Stair Lift
If you are unable to use stairs but still want to be able to access all levels of your home, a stair lift can be a helpful solution. These devices are installed on the staircase and allow individuals to safely and easily travel up and down the stairs.
Modify The Bathroom
The bathroom can be a particularly challenging area for seniors, as it often involves using a variety of different surfaces and fixtures, such as the shower, toilet, and sink. Some home adaptations that can make the bathroom safer and more accessible include installing a walk-in tub or shower, adding grab bars and handrails, and raising the height of the toilet.
Source: CMHC
