DAUPHIN—The Manitoba government is investing $1.4 million to build 12 new supportive housing units at Dauphin’s Happy Haven seniors’ residence, Premier Gary Doer announced here today.

 

“Today’s investment means more housing options for Dauphin-area seniors in need of extra care and support,” Doer said.  “These new supportive housing spaces mean more options for seniors to live with independence and dignity in a welcoming environment with access to round-the-clock care.”

 

Supportive housing, just one element of the provincial Aging in Place strategy, combines community living in a secure apartment setting with 24-hour support and supervision. Residents pay for their rent and a service package which includes meals, laundry and light housekeeping while the personal-care component is funded through the regional health authority.

 

“Supporting individuals who want to remain in their community and age in place promotes independence and helps seniors remain a vital part of an active community as they age,” Doer said.

 

Dauphin’s Happy Haven is one example of a senior’s facility that will have both supportive housing and the supports for seniors in group living that allow older adults to extend the time they can live independently in their own community, the premier said.  These enhanced supports keep seniors close to friends, family and the social, cultural and spiritual interactions that enrich their lives and the community.  This support for seniors in group living housing option offers no-charge assistance and one-on-one help in arranging appointments or transportation, or planning social activities.

 

Manitoba’s Aging in Place strategy allows regional health authorities to work with individual communities to tailor the level of support.  Services may range from basic home care to group living arrangements where residents can have 24-hour support and supervision in a secure environment but do not need the additional nursing services offered in personal-care homes.

 

The Aging in Place strategy was first announced in January 2006 with a $98-million commitment for renovation of existing personal-care homes facilities, new construction and community programs in Winnipeg.  In February 2007, the first stage of the rural and northern strategy was unveiled with a $21-million commitment.

 

The program supports more than 3,300 living units across the province.