Seniors can apply for the annual Seniors Care Grant program, which helps with expenses that allow them to stay in their homes longer and improve their quality of life. To qualify, Nova Scotians must be 65 years or older by March 31, 2025, live in a home they own or rent, and have an annual household income of $45,100 or less. The previous maximum was $37,500.
The program offers a grant of $750 to eligible seniors to help cover expenses related to household and healthcare services, as well as home heating costs. This year, the income eligibility threshold has increased to $45,100 (from $37,500), ensuring more seniors can benefit from this program.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the Seniors Care Grant, you must:
- Be 65 years or older by March 31, 2025.
- Live in a home you own or rent in Nova Scotia.
- Have an annual household income of $45,100 or less.
What Services are Covered?
The grant can be used to cover a wide range of services that help seniors stay in their homes, including:
- Household Services: Cooking, meal preparation, grocery delivery, cleaning, organizing, and downsizing.
- Healthcare Services: Physiotherapy, foot care, mental health support, and medication delivery (excluding medication costs).
- Home Heating: Costs for furnace oil, natural gas, propane, firewood, wood pellets, and electricity, as well as heating repairs and maintenance.
- Outdoor Work: Landscaping, lawn care, snow removal, driveway maintenance, and tree removal.
- Transportation: Taxis, ride shares, shuttles, public transit, and Access-A-Bus.
- Small Home Repairs: Fixing windows, doors, roofs, plumbing, electrical work, decks, siding, and more.
- Communication Services: Phone, cellphone, and internet services (excluding device costs).
Ineligible Expenses
The following expenses are not covered:
- Devices such as phones, computers, or tablets.
- Food and grocery costs.
- Medications, prescriptions, supplements, and vitamins.
- Medical devices such as eyeglasses, dentures, and personal alerts.
How to Apply
You can apply for the Seniors Care Grant in one of two ways:
- Online: Visit the official program website to complete your application. Make sure you have an email address to receive updates about your application status.
- Print Applications: Available at Access Nova Scotia Centres and local MLA offices for those who prefer a paper application.
