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p.e.i retirement guide

A Guide to Retirement Care & Senior Living in P.E.I

Home to beautiful red sand beaches and iconic historical sites, Prince Edward Island draws many tourists and retirees to the island for its stunning landscapes and rich history. With great healthcare, beautiful scenery, and an affordable cost of living, the island makes for a perfect retirement destination for adults looking to live a vibrant, yet laid-back lifestyle during their retirement. If you’re considering settling down in Prince Edward Island, <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/">Cared Upon</a> is here to help you find your perfect retirement community in the province. &nbsp;

With national parks, popular beaches, historical buildings, picturesque waterfront districts, and cities well-known for their seafood and shopping destinations, there's never a shortage of things to do in Prince Edward Island. Known as Canada’s “Garden Province”, the province is ideal for older adults who enjoy easy access to places like the beach, parks, trails, and hiking routes. If you enjoy visiting historical sites, Charlottetown’s Great George Street Historic District also features an abundance of notable historical sites with mid-1800’s style architecture to see.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;P.E.I is a maritime province with a milder climate, especially in comparison to other Canadian maritime provinces. You can enjoy four distinct seasons in P.E.I, with drier summers and wet winters. Average temperatures during the wintertime range from -9 °C to a high of -2 °C (15°F-28°F), with summer temperatures averaging from around 17°C to 24°C (62°F-75°F).&nbsp;

As you age, you will find that your care needs and retirement needs will change. From assisted living to retirement communities, Prince Edward Island offers older adults a variety of housing options to fit their lifestyle and healthcare needs. Although the location of your retirement community in P.E.I will directly affect the monthly cost, seniors in P.E.I can expect to pay approximately $3,237 per month for a senior housing or retirement community space.&nbsp;&nbsp;For seniors seeking long-term care in the province, the resident is expected to cover the cost of accommodation and personal expenses, while Health PEI covers the costs of healthcare. If you are unable to cover the cost of accommodation, you can apply for a subsidy after receiving a financial assessment showing that you are eligible. For more information on long-term care and your eligibility for a subsidy, visit <a href="https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/health-pei/long-term-care">the official Prince Edward Island website.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;When making the decision to move into a retirement community, it is important to consider not only the type of care you will need to receive, but also the proximity of your new home to surrounding areas such as shopping centres, health care institutions, parks, and even restaurants. To search for a care home provider in P.E.I that fits your budget and care needs, you can visit our <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/">search portal</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prince Edward Island often draws retirees for its affordable cost of living, especially in comparison to other Canadian provinces. Real estate in the province remains among some of the lowest in Canada, as well as heating costs - as approximately 24% of the province’s electrical needs are powered using wind.You may find that factors such as the type of healthcare you need, the lifestyle you wish to have, and how much money you will receive from investments and pensions will all affect the cost of your retirement plan. However, for seniors still seeking support for finance and budgeting during retirement, there are government programs that offer benefits to those needing added aid.Government Funding:Seniors living on a modest income may be eligible for the Seniors Housing Program. Based on factors such as your assets, health, and income you may be eligible to receive placement in a home that suits your needs and desired location - costing only 25 percent of your income.&nbsp;Through the Seniors Independence Initiative, seniors living on a lower-income budget can receive aid on services such as light housekeeping, meal preparations, snow removal, and even transportation. For more information on eligibility, visit <a href="https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/seniors-independence-initiative">the official P.E.I website.</a>&nbsp;When retiring in P.E.I, you may also access benefits funded by the government to help you prepare and pay for your retirement. If eligible, you may access funding through government programs such as the Canadian Pension Plan Retirement Pension (CPP), Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and Old Age Security Pension (OAS). For more information on government contributions in Canada, visit our <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/blog/paying-for-care/paying-for-care-in-canada-%7C-government-contributions">resource centre.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the case that you do not meet the eligibility criteria for receiving Government funding, you have several options for post-retirement income sources.&nbsp;&nbsp;Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs): Using a Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) or a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSAs), your post-retirement income is dependent on the amount you put into these accounts when you first began saving and the interest you received.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Investment accounts: More commonly, some may look to taxable investment accounts as a post-retirement income source. These can include investments from accounts such as stocks and bonds.&nbsp;Employer-sponsored pension plans: Under an employer-sponsored pension plan such as the Public Sector Pension Plan (PSPP), as a permanent employee you are provided with pension benefits.&nbsp;&nbsp;To learn more about your options for post-retirement income sources, visit our <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/blog/paying-for-care/paying-for-care-in-canada-%7C-stretching-your-dollars">resource centre.</a>&nbsp;

If you are a new resident looking to access healthcare through Medicare or PEI Hospital and Medical Service Insurance in the province, you may face a three-month waiting period before you are eligible for coverage. During this three-month waiting period, you will be covered by the former province you were living in.&nbsp;&nbsp;With a valid health card, you may be eligible for coverage on necessary hospital services, certain medical supplies, and certain home care programs for seniors. For more information on health care coverage in P.E.I, visit <a href="https://www.canadalife.com/insurance/health-and-dental-insurance/provincial-government-health-plans/prince-edward-island.html">Canada Life here.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;P.E.I offers eligible seniors added health coverage on prescription drugs and medical supplies through PEI Pharmacare, a health care plan that aids seniors with either partial or full coverage on their medical costs. To find out more on the PEI Pharmacare plan, visit <a href="https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/health-pei/pei-pharmacare">the P.E.I website.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/topic/seniors">Senior Residents Resource Center</a>: The official Prince Edward Island website covers all-things senior living related in the province.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/sites/default/files/publications/web-seniors_guide.pdf">Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide:</a> A comprehensive Seniors’ booklet covering topics on programs, government services, community organizations, and contact information in the province.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lifestyle & Activities 

Weather and Climate 

Housing options in Prince Edward Island: Finding the Right Fit for you 

Cost of Retiring in Prince Edward Island: Budgeting and Financing 

Post-retirement Income Sources 

Access to Healthcare 

Additional Resources 

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I need support arranging care for myself or a loved one. Where do I start? 

Getting Started with Retirement Care

Arranging care for yourself or a loved one can seem complicated. &nbsp;To get started, there are four steps when arranging senior care services.&nbsp;

Arranging care for yourself or a loved one can seem complicated.To get started, there are four steps when arranging care services.&nbsp;1) Request for an assessment for services from a local home or community care office&nbsp;2) Prepare for your assessment or services&nbsp;3) Develop your unique care plan&nbsp;4) Begin your care services

When you or someone you know needs care, you can contact your local home or community care office to request an assessment for services. If you’re already working with a health care professional, including a doctor, nurse, pharmacist or social worker, they can make a referral for you.

Once your local home and community care office receives a request for assessment, either from yourself or a health care professional, you will be contacted. The health care professional from the local home or community care office will work with you to determine your eligibility for services and/or arrange for an assessment if it is necessary.  
If for any reason you or your loved one is not eligible for home and community care services or you do not require an assessment for services, you will receive a referral to other resources. 


An assessment for services with a health care professional is a meeting to talk about your current living situation and assess your unique health care needs.&nbsp;To prepare for your meeting, you will need to have:&nbsp;• Your health care card• Your family doctor and the best number to reach them at&nbsp;• A close relative or friend that the care services office can contact&nbsp;• Information about any prescription medications you are taking&nbsp;• Your pension cheque stubs&nbsp;• Your income tax return or notice of assessment&nbsp;The health care professional will also work with you to answer the following questions:&nbsp;• Am I eligible for care?&nbsp;• What services are needed to meet my unique health care needs and situation?&nbsp;• How long will I need care services for?&nbsp;• Will the services cost me anything? If so, how much will that be?&nbsp;It is important to remember that you and your loved one have the right to consent to care by your health authority. Make sure your questions are answered and explained so you have an understanding of the next steps ahead.&nbsp;To prepare further for your meeting, Cared Upon recommends you have:&nbsp;• A list of questions you have about home and community care services&nbsp;• Documents or any information that could be helpful to further assess your unique health care needs&nbsp;• A family member, close relative or friend to attend the meeting with you. It can be helpful to have an extra pair of ears to provide support or ask any questions you might miss.

Once it is determined that you are eligible for services, a health care professional will work with you to co-create a care plan that meet your unique health care needs. 
This plan will serve as a guide for everyone on your caregiving team. As your care situation evolves and changes, your care plan will be updated by the health care professional. 


The time it takes to begin your care services will depend on the urgency for the need of the particular care service. This will be determined by the health care professional during your assessment for services meeting. Many health care professionals use an “urgency criteria” to prioritize access to care services. The urgency criteria will vary depending on where you are located and whether you are accessing home or community care.&nbsp;Generally, this is based on:&nbsp;• Is there an urgency to access health care needs right now?&nbsp;• What is the current availability for home and community caregivers and support?&nbsp;• Is there a potential risk from abuse, neglect, or self-neglect that requires assistance in managing your day-to-day needs?

Getting Started

1.  Request an assessment for services from a local home or community care office 

2.  Prepare for your assessment of services 

3.  Develop your unique care plan

4.  Begin your care services

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What are the Care Options Available for Me? 

There are a number of care options available for seniors. &nbsp;Read on to learn what they are and find out which one may be right for you

There is a spectrum of care options available depending on your unique health care needs. These include:&nbsp;

Active Adult Living are often gated or planned communities, that are built to provide you with the utmost flexibility. You may choose this living option if you are comfortable with living on your own. These communities allow you to choose to live with people around the same age and those who have the same interests as you. When you choose active adult living, you choose a community with on-site services and amenities such as 24-hour security, golf courses, art classes, recreation centres, gyms and fitness classes, spas, lawn bowling, and tennis courts. When you live in active adult living communities, you also don’t have to worry about maintaining you living space such as mowing your lawn or clearing your driveway.  

Independent Living allows you to live with people around the same age and interests in a care-free and stress-free community. This option is for you if you are comfortable with living on your own, have good physical health, and have good cognitive health, but would like extra assistance with tasks around your living space such as with cooking, laundry and in-home maintenance. Often, independent living communities offer recreational programs similar to active adult living communities as well.  

Home Care allows you to stay in the comfort of your own home and get the day-to-day assistance you may need. This is ideal if you have some physical or cognitive health limitations. The type of assistance will depend on your needs including medication assistance, transportation, and cooking. Other services could include respite care and palliative care. Sometimes, these services are eligible through your home or community care providers. 

Assisted Living homes are sometimes referred to as personal care homes or assisted care communities. This option is ideal if you are still able to live independently but have some physical or cognitive health limitations. In assisted living communities, you have on-site daily support including personal care, mobility and transportation, cooking, and medication assistance. Care in these facilities are tailored to meet your unique needs. Often, assisted living communities will also offer social, cultural, recreational and educational activities. 

Long-Term Care allows you to have all-inclusive 24-hour assistance including personal care, hygiene, mobilit, and transportation, and medication assistance. This is an option if you have physical or cognitive health limitations such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Often, you will be assessed by a social service agency for long-term care services. Depending on where you live, long-term care is usually covered by the Ministry of Health.  

Respite Care offers you short-term care that can range from 24-hours to 90 days, depending on your unique health needs and living situation. These services are offered in-home or at retirement homes. This is for you if you have any physical or cognitive health limitations. The respite care services offered include personal care, hygiene, mobility and transportation, and medication assistance. Often, it is recommended by your home or community care office. 

Convalescent Care allows you to be cared for after surgery such as knee or hip surgery. This is a short-term care service similar to respite care that is offered in retirement homes. Convalescent care offers 24-hour care in cases of emergencies and routine doctor check-ups. Sometimes, retirement homes offering convalescent care have amenities and services to help with your recovery including pools, spas, gyms, and physiotherapy. 

Palliative Care allows you to have the right care if you are experiencing a terminal, serious illness. It is also referred to as comfort care, end-of-life care or hospice care. This can be offered in retirement homes or in-home. If you choose palliative care in retirement homes, there may be other services available such as spas and physiotherapy. 

Care Options

Adult Active Living

Independent Living

Home Care

Assisted Living

Long Term Care

Respite Care

Palliative Care 

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<a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/care-advisor/apply">Click here to match with a Cared Upon Senior Living Advisor today.</a>

Find The Support You Need With a Senior Living Advisor 

You or your loved ones have come to an important conclusion–it’s time to seek additional living support. Independent research is a critical first step in this process, but you’ve realized just how much information is out there. Navigating the digital maze of elder care providers’ websites, blogs, and independent resources can often lead to more questions than answers. Senior Living Advisors are here to help guide you all the way through the process, from initial research to moving day.&nbsp;&nbsp;Senior Living Advisors (SLAs), sometimes referred to as Senior Living Consultants, Senior Living Care Professionals, or Elder Care Advisors, are not affiliated with specific care facilities, working independently to ensure that you find the perfect residence. Each Senior Living Advisor is equipped with a wealth of experience in the senior care industry, and has access to information sometimes unavailable to families. Their goal isn’t to rush you through this already stressful process– they’re here to empower your decision making with the support and resources you need.&nbsp;

You’ve likely already noticed that the existing senior care landscape is not exactly conducive to independent research– care homes’ guides, blogs, and resources sometimes host competing information, or are colored by their intention to attract new residents. Senior Living Advisors have guided families through this process before, allowing them to provide you with specific, relevant information. Since Senior Living Advisors are not affiliated with a particular facility, you can trust them to be honest and objective. Not only will they be able to discuss the levels of available care, vacancies in your area, and how to pay for it, they’ll also have a qualitative sense of each community.

Senior Living Advisors work for you– not for care providers. Before your SLA begins the discussion about available facilities, they spend time getting to know you. All of their recommendations are based on you or your loved one’s personal wants, needs, required care, budget, and personality. Armed with a thorough understanding of your needs, they’re able to advocate on your behalf and deliver a rich, personalized experience. What’s more, your advisor’s job doesn’t stop once you’ve received a handful of recommendations; your Senior Living Advisor stays involved in your provider search until well after you’ve settled in.&nbsp;

Choosing a residence is one of the most important moves of your or loved ones’ life. With so many key factors to consider, this process takes time. Senior Living Advisors are happy to move as quickly or as slowly as you need them to. If you’re looking for a residence right away, their connections with care providers can expedite your move-in day, but if you’re just starting your journey– they’re happy to use those same relationships to book as many tours as you need. Your comfort and confidence is the foundation of a successful placement.

<a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/care-advisor/apply">Click here to match with a Cared Upon Senior Living Advisor today.&nbsp;</a> You'll be expertly matched with an advisor from our team with more than 35 years of senior care placement experience.

Each advisor will take the time to:&nbsp;<ol><li>Generate and understanding of your or your loved one's care needs</li><li>Explore a diverse array of options in your area and budget</li><li>Research and interview facilities nearby facilities on your behalf</li><li>Arrange in-person residence tours to experience their facilities and services</li><li>Work together to determine the perfect fit</li></ol>

Choosing a Retirement Residence with Confidence

Senior Living Advisors Have Been Here Before

Relationships First, Placements Second

No Rush 

Connect with a Senior Care Advisor on CaredUpon.ca

What You Can Expect From Cared Upon's Senior Living Advisors 

Alberton

Belfast

Charlottetown

Clyde River

Crapaud

Hunter River

Kensington

Margate

Miscouche

Montague

North Rustico

O'Leary

Sherwood

Summerside

Tignish

Tyne Valley

Wellington

Assessing whether an elderly family member requires additional assistance can often be difficult as you may not be nearby to see the signs, or they may simply downplay their illness to maintain their independence for longer. In any case, this can be a difficult situation to navigate as you may not know the signs to look out for, or how to approach the topic if the conversation is needed.&nbsp;&nbsp;In light of this, it is vital to the well-being of the seniors in your life and to your relationship with them that you approach the conversation with the highest level of empathy and care. We've highlighted the five signs to look for when assessing if an ageing senior in your life requires further assistance, as well as how to approach the discussion when the time comes.&nbsp;

5 Signs That an Ageing Senior Needs Additional Help 

A noticeable change in a senior's personal routine is often a tell-tale sign that they may require additional help. This could look like them neglecting their personal hygiene, missing their doctor appointments, changes in their sleep patterns, or unsanitary living conditions that are not being attended to. While it’s common to occasionally have a change in routine during a busy week, a drastic change in their routine and habits that continues to become a pattern should not be taken lightly or dismissed, and it is imperative to keep a lookout for these changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As seniors age, you may notice some patterns that make you question their safety; for instance, if they have trouble climbing stairs, or if they can't seem to remember how to get to their favourite coffee shop without getting lost. An obvious way to look out for these signs without having to ask is by looking out for any bruises, scrapes, or cuts on a senior's body.&nbsp;&nbsp;A senior’s driving habits are also important to look out for to ensure their safety on the road. One way to look out for changes in their driving includes checking for dents or scratches on the car, piled-up tickets, or citations. To read further about the signs to look out for with seniors driving and how to approach this conversation, visit our <a href="https://www.caredupon.ca/blog/additional-resources/how-to-talk-with-seniors-about-their-driving--?fbclid=IwAR1OIIKAikFGYXCAvU5MmqKznAhz3Wq02cQ6y2G8c2paNJGdPb_02gTQ59A">care blog</a>.&nbsp;

While forgetfulness, such as forgetting where you placed an object or taking longer to learn new things, can be considered a normal process of ageing, there are important signs to look out for that may indicate it’s time to visit a doctor. This includes:<ul><li>Repeating a question or story repeatedly</li><li>Difficulty in finding your way around familiar spaces</li><li>Increased confusion about people or the time</li><li>Trouble with written or verbal communication</li><li>Changes in problem-solving abilities</li></ul>&nbsp;If you notice any of these changes in a senior's cognitive abilities, It is vital to receive an evaluation from a medical professional to determine the root cause.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Seniors struggling with reduced mobility, a decline in functional ability, developing a routine after retirement, grief, and loneliness are often prone to struggling with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. During these times, it is imperative to be mindful of their emotional well-being. Some common signs you may notice when the mental health of a senior is declining may include:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Loss of interest in hobbies they previously enjoyed</li><li>Oversleeping or not getting enough rest</li><li>Difficulty remembering or concentrating</li><li>Eating more or less than usual</li><li>Communicates feelings of sadness, helplessness, and/or worthlessness</li><li>Isolation and social withdrawal</li><li>Unusual fatigue</li><li>Changes in their appearance</li></ul>Changes in a senior's mental health require just as much attention and care as changes seen in a physical illness. It is important to not only seek medical help when it comes to their mental health but to also ensure that you are regularly checking up on your loved ones and helping them develop a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and physical activity.&nbsp;

You may notice some changes in their financial habits, such as overdue bills, a dramatic increase in their spending habits, or your loved one making large withdrawals from their accounts without accounting for their financial status. If you notice these changes in their financial habits, you may wish to start a conversation on your concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It's never easy to have a conversation with your family about senior living, especially with your parents. To begin the conversation, consider these tips:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Address your concerns with other family members and ask if they support your decision by speaking to your loved ones about their care options. This will not only help you get additional viewpoints on the matter, but they may also provide you with support with scheduling doctor's calls and finding assistance.&nbsp;

As this is a difficult conversation to navigate, it is critical to approach the conversation with caution and empathy as they may be in denial and resistant to having the conversation. It is imperative to remain calm and respectful of their wishes and to remain objective while listening to what they have to say. Ensure that you are picking a suitable time to have the conversation, and if needed, contact a mediator such as their primary doctor to navigate their options for long-term care.If you notice any of the signs or changes mentioned above, it’s important to take proactive steps to get your loved ones the care they need to overall improve their quality of life. It may be difficult to come to terms with the fact that a loved one requires additional support with daily living, but once you've acknowledged the need for support, there are a variety of tools available to make the following stages as simple as possible.&nbsp;

Changes in Their Personal Routine 

You Become Concerned For Their Personal Safety   

Memory Loss   

Mental Health Struggles   

Changes in Their Financial Habits 

How to Approach the Conversation Surrounding Their Senior Living Options?  

Involve a Sibling or Family Member

Remain Patient and Come From a Place of Empathy

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Paying for Care in Canada | Government Contributions

The amount government pays for senior care and the benefits seniors can receive depends on a few criteria such as contributions, average annual earning, and the time you started your pension. Some other parameters such as your health, if you’re married, or whether you’re planning to continue working might also affect the amount of financial assistance for pensioners.

Across Canada, there are two fundamental aids seniors usually use, which are the Canadian Pension Plan Retirement Pension (CPP) and Old Age Security Pension (OAS). You may want to seek help from a certified financial planner to be able to know which programs are the best for you. You can also check out Service Canada or reach out to 2-1-1 for more information about government financial assistance for seniors.&nbsp;<h4>Old Age Security Pension Amount</h4>When you qualify for the Old Age Security Pension (OAS), you can receive up to $614.14 a month, depending on how you long lived in Canada or particular countries starting 18 years old. You can as well receive extra payment based on your income under the other variants of OAS, for instance, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), Allowance Program, Allowance for the Survivor, and other CPP benefits.<h4>Canadian Pension Plan Retirement Pension (CPP) Amount</h4>In 2019, seniors who are new recipients of this benefit aged 65 who will qualify for the CPP can receive a maximum monthly amount of $1,154.58. However, the average monthly amount a senior receives is $679.16. There are varying factors for how much you will receive. For instance, your time off work can affect the amount that you will receive in a monthly basis. At the same time, It is also possible for you to work while you receive the pension.

<h4>Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)</h4>The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is monthly government assistance for seniors with low income under OAS. This program is a non-taxable benefit eligible for seniors with a low income, living in Canada.&nbsp;You can be eligible for this benefit if your income is below $18,624, and you are single, widowed, or divorced. If you have a spouse or a common-law partner, the amount you will receive will depend on your income and your partner’s income combined.&nbsp;You can be eligible for GIS if your income and your partner’s income is below $24,576, and your partner receives the full OAS pension. If your spouse or your common-law partner does not receive an OAS pension, you may be eligible for GIS if you and your partner’s income is below $44,640.&nbsp;While, if your partner receives an allowance, you can be eligible for this program, and your income and your partner’s combined income is below $44,640.<h4>Allowance Program</h4>The Allowance Program is a monthly benefit over and above OAS. Low-income seniors aged 60-64 with a spouse or a common-law partner who is a recipient of Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement may be eligible for this benefit.If you are a Canadian citizen or a legal resident of the country, you can be eligible for this program if your annual income and your spouse/common-law partner combined income is below $34,416.<h4>Allowance for the Survivor</h4>This benefit can be applied to low-income seniors living in Canada who has a deceased spouse or a common-law partner. This allowance is monthly given to seniors who will meet a certain criterion. If you want to know more about this benefit, please visit the website of the Government of Canada.You can be eligible for this benefit if you have a deceased spouse or common-law partner and you haven’t remarried or entered a new relationship with a common-law partner. Your annual income must be below $25,080 to be eligible for this program.&nbsp;

Find Retirement Homes, Long-Term Care & Senior Health Services in Prince Edward Island

A Guide to Retirement Care & Senior Living in P.E.I

5 Signs That an Ageing Senior Needs Additional Help

Paying for Care in Canada | Government Contributions

What are the Care Options Available for Me?