Aging in the North: Senior Living in the Northwest Territories
Senior living in the Northwest Territories presents unique considerations, from vast distances between communities to the importance of culturally appropriate care for Indigenous seniors. Despite these challenges, the NWT has developed supportive programs to help elders age with dignity in the North.
Overview of Senior Care in the NWT
The NWT Department of Health and Social Services manages senior care territory-wide, with the NWT Health and Social Services Authority providing direct care. The territory emphasizes aging-in-place and community-based care whenever possible.
Types of Senior Living Available
Independent Living
Independent senior housing is available primarily in Yellowknife through NWT Housing Corporation seniors' units. Some communities also have designated senior housing.
Long-Term Care
The territory operates long-term care facilities in Yellowknife (Aven Manor, Jimmy Erasmus Seniors' Home), Hay River, and several smaller communities. Fees are income-tested.
Home and Community Care
Home care programs are crucial in the NWT, helping seniors remain in their communities. Services include personal care, homemaking, respite, and nursing care.
Territorial Programs & Financial Support
- Extended Health Benefits — Seniors — Coverage for medical travel, prescription drugs, dental, and vision for eligible seniors.
- NWT Seniors' Home Heating Subsidy — Helps with fuel oil and wood heating costs.
- Senior Citizens Supplementary Benefit — Monthly income supplement for qualifying seniors.
- Home and Community Care Program — Territorial funded home support services.
- Aging in Place Initiative — Programs designed to help seniors stay in their home communities.
Key Communities for Senior Living
Yellowknife — The capital has the most senior care options, including Stanton Territorial Hospital and multiple long-term care facilities.
Hay River — The town on Great Slave Lake offers long-term care and community-based senior services.
Inuvik / Fort Smith — Regional centres with local health centres and community care programs for elders.
Tips for Families
- Contact Health and Social Services early to explore options and start assessments.
- Understand that medical travel may be necessary — the territory covers travel costs for seniors needing specialized care in southern hospitals.
- Cultural considerations are important: ask about Indigenous language services and culturally appropriate care.
- Aging-in-place programs can significantly extend the time a senior can remain in their community.
Finding the Right Community
While options are more limited in the NWT, SeniorHome.ca lists available facilities to help families plan ahead and make informed choices about senior care in the North.