Support and Resources for Seniors and People with Disabilities in Toronto: A Guide to Government and Community Programs

Accessing Support and Resources for Seniors and People with Disabilities in Toronto Can Make a Real Difference

As we age or face mobility challenges, having access to the right support can make a major difference in day-to-day quality of life. Thankfully, there are a range of services and resources for seniors and individuals with disabilities available through the Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, and the City of Toronto, as well as community organizations. Whether you are a senior, a caregiver, or a person living with a disability, this guide can help you navigate some of the most essential resources available today.

Please note this is not a complete list. Program availability can change, so it's always a good idea to do your own research or speak with a professional for tailored guidance.

Federal Programs (Government of Canada)

• Old Age Security (OAS)

  A universal monthly pension for Canadians aged 65 or older. To qualify, you must be at least 65, a Canadian citizen or legal resident, and have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18 (or 20 years if living abroad). It is automatically applied for most people, but you can learn more or apply here: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/old-age-security.html

  
  

• Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)

  A non-taxable, monthly top-up for low-income seniors who receive OAS. Eligibility is based on income thresholds that adjust annually (2024 threshold: around $21,624) Explore GIS here: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/old-age-security/guaranteed-income-supplement.html

  
  

• Canada Pension Plan (CPP)

  A contributory program offering retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. You can begin retirement benefits at 60 with reduced payments or wait until 70 for higher income. To qualify you must have contributed to CPP and be over 18. Find full details here: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp.html

  
  

• Home Adaptations for Seniors' Independence (HASI)

  Provides grants for eligible low-income seniors to modify their homes (ramps, bathroom safety features) and remain independent. See if you’re eligible here: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/all-funding-programs/home-adaptations-seniors-independence

  
  

• New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP)

  Federal grants support community projects aimed at reducing isolation and promoting social participation among seniors. More information here: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/new-horizons-seniors.html

  
  

• Canadian Dental Care Plan

  An expanded plan offering dental coverage to eligible seniors and adults with disabilities in low- to modest-income brackets, with staged access by 2025. Check current eligibility and coverage: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental.html

  
  

Provincial Programs (Government of Ontario)

• Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB)

  Offers prescription drug coverage to Ontario residents aged 65 or older. Applies automatically with OHIP. Learn more here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-coverage-prescription-drugs

  
  

• Trillium Drug Program

  Helps individuals and families with high drug costs relative to income, regardless of age. See how it works: https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-help-high-prescription-drug-costs

  
  

• Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)

  Provides income assistance, prescription drugs, dental and vision care, transportation, and employment support to those 18 or older in financial need, with a medical condition lasting at least one year. Full program details: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program

  
  

• Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS)

  Provides up to $87 monthly to low-income seniors already receiving OAS and GIS in Ontario. Check eligibility and rates: https://www.ontario.ca/page/guaranteed-annual-income-system-payments

  
  

• Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program

  Offers basic dental services like exams, cleaning, fillings, and dentures for qualifying low-income seniors. Learn more: https://www.ontario.ca/page/dental-care-low-income-seniors

  
  

• Home and Community Care Support Services

  Serves people needing home nursing, physiotherapy, personal care, and adult day programs through local providers. Coordinates in-home nursing, personal support, physiotherapy, and more. Services vary by region: https://healthcareathome.ca/

City of Toronto Services for Seniors and People with Disabilities

• Seniors Services and Long-Term Care

  Includes recreation programs, affordable housing options, caregiver support, and budget-based subsidies. Explore City offerings: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/community-partners/seniors-services/

  
  

• Toronto Seniors HConnects callers to community support, friendly check-in calls, home visits, caregiver advice, and meal programs. Visit the helpline site: https://torontoseniorshelpline.ca/

  
  

• Health Support Fund

  Offers help covering health-related items like eyeglasses, hearing aids, and mobility devices for eligible low-income residents: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/employment-social-support/financial-support/health-benefits/

• City Accessibility Services

  Provides assistance with eyeglasses, hearing aids, mobility equipment, and other health supplies for low-income residents. Review options: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/accessibility-human-rights/accessibility-at-the-city/

  
  

• Wheel-Trans

  A door-to-door transit option for people whose impairments (physical, sensory, cognitive, mental) prevent them from using standard TTC service. Offers unconditional, conditional, and temporary service options, assessed based on individual needs. Apply and learn more: https://www.ttc.ca/riding-the-ttc/TTC-service/Wheel-Trans

  
  

• Toronto Central Healthline

  A searchable directory of health, social, recreation, and transportation services for seniors and those with disabilities. Use the directory: https://www.torontocentralhealthline.ca/

Community and Charitable Programs

• March of Dimes Canada

  Offers rehabilitation services, employment supports, home modifications, and accessible recreational activities for adults with disabilities. Visit the site: https://www.marchofdimes.ca/

  
  

• Meals on Wheels Toronto

  Delivers fresh or frozen meals with a daily wellness check for seniors or individuals living with disability. Get started: https://mealsonwheels.ca/

  
  

• Better Living Health and Community Services

  Offers adult day programs, community dining, transportation services, and caregiver support. Explore services: https://mybetterliving.ca/

A Final Word

These programs reflect a strong commitment to supporting seniors and individuals with disabilities. Whether you need help with daily living, financial stability, medical care, or transportation, help is available. While this guide provides a strong starting point, we encourage you to do additional research or contact organizations directly to ensure you have the most accurate and relevant information for your situation.

At Heartfelt Health Ltd., we believe informed families make empowered decisions. If you ever need assistance navigating these options or coordinating support, we are happy to guide you.

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