Essential Community Resources for Ontario Seniors

Navigating aging in Ontario doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you're a senior looking to stay independent or a family member helping a loved one, this guide covers the top provincial, municipal, and nonprofit services available—now updated to reflect what really matters most in 2025.

1. Health and Home Care Services

Seniors across Ontario can access home and community care through publicly funded services that offer support with bathing, nursing, rehab, and more.

• Home and Community Care Support Services

• Ontario Seniors’ Dental Care Program (for low-income seniors)

• Telehealth Ontario (free nurse advice 24/7): 1‑866‑797‑0000

2. Financial Assistance and Benefits

Many Ontario seniors qualify for income supplements and grants.

• GAINS (Guaranteed Annual Income System): Province-funded income top-up

• ODSP: Ontario Disability Support Program for seniors with qualifying disabilities

• OAS/GIS: Federal monthly pensions and supplements 

• Tax Credits: Seniors’ Home Safety Tax Credit, Disability Tax Credit, and more

3. Transportation Services

Maintaining independence often depends on mobility.

• Local transportation programs (e.g., shuttle services, para-transit, taxi subsidies)

• Senior Driver Renewal Program: Refresher courses and assessments

• Contact your municipality or local transit authority to find programs in your area.

4. Social Activities and Connection

Staying socially active is vital for mental and physical health.

• Seniors’ Active Living Centres offer fitness, tech help, and lifelong learning.

• Community Centres & Libraries: Check local websites for free or low-cost programming.

• Volunteer Toronto: Find meaningful volunteer roles.

• Friendly Visiting Programs from local health or volunteer organizations

5. Legal Support, Power of Attorney & Elder Rights

Legal documents and elder advocacy services help protect your wishes.

• Power of Attorney Kit (Ontario): Provided by Office of the Public Guardian & Trustee

• Advocacy Centre for the Elderly (ACE): Free legal advice for low-income seniors 

• Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario

6. Housing and Long-Term Care Options

From aging-in-place to supportive environments, seniors have options:

• Ontario Long-Term Care Homes

• Supportive Housing & Assisted Living options through your local Ontario Health at Home office, local providers, or SeniorCareAccess.com

• Senior Condominiums: for independent seniors seeking lifestyle communities (contact a realtor)

• CMHC Seniors’ Housing Info

7. Health, Fitness & Wellness Programs

Healthier living starts with daily activity and access to wellness resources.

• ParticipACTION (Canada-wide): Stay active with senior-specific programs

• Fall Prevention Clinics: Often offered at community health centres

• Wellness Checks & Vaccination Clinics: Through public health and pharmacies

8. Mental Health & Cognitive Support

Mental health needs often increase with age.

• Alzheimer's Society Ontario

• First Link® Dementia Referral Program

• Talk Suicide Canada: 1‑833‑456‑4566 (24/7 crisis line)

• Seniors Mental Health Outreach Teams: Available through local health networks

• Geriatric psychiatry services in many hospitals across Ontario

9. Digital Literacy and Technology Access

Staying connected online is now essential for independence and social interaction.

• Connected Canadians: Free tech training for seniors 

• Public Libraries: Offer tech drop-ins, device training, and digital literacy workshops

• Affordable Internet for Seniors: Ask your local provider if they have senior specials

10. Safety at Home

A safe environment is key to aging in place.

• March of Dimes Home and Vehicle Modification Program

• Local fire departments often offer free home safety checks

• Medical Alert Systems: Consider reliable services like Galaxy Medical Alert Systems for added peace of mind

11. Support for Family Caregivers

Caregiving takes a toll—physically, emotionally, and financially.

• Ontario Caregiver Organization

• Respite Services: Temporary relief care through Ontario Health at Home, local retirement homes,  or private agencies

• CRA Caregiver Credits: Explore tax benefits for family caregivers

12. End-of-Life Planning & Palliative Care

Having a plan brings peace of mind.

• Advance Care Planning: Discuss care wishes with your doctor and family

• MAiD (Medical Assistance in Dying): Learn your rights and options 

• Bereavement Supports: Offered by hospices, faith groups, and mental health services

How to Get Started

1. Bookmark this guide and start with one section relevant to your situation.

2. Contact your local Home and Community Care office for personalized advice.

3. Use municipal resources—most cities have a dedicated seniors’ page.

4. Don’t wait for a crisis—the earlier you explore supports, the more options you’ll have.