Retiring on the Island: Senior Living in Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island's small size and close-knit communities create an ideal environment for senior care. With a strong sense of neighbourly support and a slower pace of life, PEI offers personalized care that larger provinces sometimes struggle to match. It's also one of Canada's most affordable places for senior living.
Overview of Senior Care in PEI
Health PEI manages the province's healthcare system, including senior care services. The Department of Health and Wellness sets policy and standards. PEI's small scale means shorter waitlists and more personal attention compared to larger provinces.
Types of Senior Living Available
Independent Living
Retirement communities in Charlottetown and Summerside offer independent living with costs typically from $1,200 to $3,000 monthly — among the most affordable in Canada.
Community Care Facilities
Licensed facilities providing personal care, supervision, and meals in a home-like setting. PEI's community care homes are typically smaller and more intimate than those in larger provinces.
Long-Term Care (Manors)
Publicly funded long-term care facilities (called "manors" in PEI) provide 24-hour nursing care. Accommodation charges are income-tested. Major facilities include the QEH-affiliated units in Charlottetown.
Memory Care
Dedicated memory care units within manors and some community care facilities serve Island seniors with dementia.
Provincial Programs & Financial Support
- PEI Pharmacare — Drug coverage programs for seniors including the Generic Drug Program and the Catastrophic Drug Program.
- Home Care Program — Publicly funded home support, nursing, and personal care services.
- Seniors' Housing Program — Affordable housing options for independent seniors through PEI Housing Corporation.
- Seniors Safe @ Home Program — Home modification grants to improve accessibility and safety.
- PEI Seniors' Property Tax Deferral — Allows eligible seniors to defer property taxes.
Key Communities for Senior Living
Charlottetown — The capital city has the most senior care options, with Queen Elizabeth Hospital and a range of retirement communities.
Summerside — PEI's second-largest city offers quality care options at very affordable prices, with Prince County Hospital nearby.
Stratford / Cornwall — Growing communities near Charlottetown with newer senior living facilities.
Tips for Families Searching in PEI
- Contact Health PEI's Home Care Program to start an assessment and explore available services.
- PEI's small size means you can visit multiple facilities in a single day — take advantage of this.
- Community care homes offer a very personal, family-like environment that many seniors prefer.
- Waitlists are generally shorter than mainland provinces, but it's still wise to plan ahead.
- Consider the seasonal population increase — some services may be busier in summer months.
Finding the Right Community
Search SeniorHome.ca's PEI listings to find the right senior living community. Our Island coverage helps families compare options across Charlottetown, Summerside, and beyond.