Seniors and families in Oshawa and the surrounding area can now apply for subsidized Adult Day Program services and transportation, following the launch of a new subsidy program by the Oshawa Senior Community (OSCC55+), in partnership with Solara Health Partners.
The subsidy fund, now open, is designed to reduce financial barriers and make it easier for more older adults to access care and support to age in place, while giving caregivers valuable time to rest and recharge, said a statement.
OSCC55+ operates Adult Day Programs at four locations:
- John Street,
- Northview,
- Conant Branches,
- Plus a specialized secure site at Faith Place Apartments.
They offer a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for older adults living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, stroke, and other chronic conditions. While the program is partially funded by the Ministry of Health, daily fees of $16 ($20 for specialized programs), along with transportation costs of $12 per round trip, can present a barrier for some families, said the statement.
The new subsidy program, funded by Solara Health Partners, will help offset these costs opening the door for more seniors to participate and more caregivers to access much-needed respite. The fund is now open, and information and application forms are available on the centres’ website.
Spreading Awareness
In addition to funding the subsidy program, Solara Health Partners will work with OSCC55+ to raise awareness through storytelling and community-focused content, helping more families learn about available supports and the benefits of Adult Day Programs.
“Adult Day Programs offer so much more than care, they create connection, routine, and a sense of community for seniors,” said Prav Jegathees, Chief Executive Officer of Solara Health Partners. “Organizations like OSCC55+ are doing incredible work to support seniors and families, but for many, the challenge isn’t recognizing the value of these programs, it’s being able to access them consistently due to cost and other practical barriers. This innovative initiative is about helping reduce those barriers, making it more affordable for seniors to participate and ensuring more families can benefit from the care, engagement, and respite these Adult Day Programs provide.”