Senior Living in Yukon: Northern Options for Aging Well
Yukon's stunning northern landscape and tight-knit communities create a unique setting for senior living. While options are more limited than in southern provinces, the territory has invested in quality care facilities and home support programs to help Yukon seniors age well in the North.
Overview of Senior Care in Yukon
Yukon's Department of Health and Social Services manages senior care territory-wide. Whitehorse General Hospital is the main healthcare facility, with health centres in smaller communities. The territory emphasizes aging in place and community-based support.
Types of Senior Living Available
Independent Living
Senior housing in Whitehorse includes Yukon Housing Corporation seniors' residences and private retirement-style apartments. Some First Nations communities also have elder housing.
Assisted Living
Copper Ridge Place in Whitehorse is the territory's main residential care facility, offering assisted living and long-term care. Thomson Centre provides transitional and continuing care.
Long-Term Care
Publicly funded continuing care provides 24-hour nursing support. Fees are income-based with territorial subsidies available.
Home Care
Yukon's Home Care Program provides nursing, personal care, respite, and homemaking services to help seniors remain in their homes and communities as long as possible.
Territorial Programs & Financial Support
- Yukon Seniors' Income Supplement — Monthly benefit for eligible seniors to supplement federal OAS/GIS.
- Yukon Pharmacare — Drug coverage for Yukon residents, including enhanced benefits for seniors.
- Home Care Program — Territorial home support services for seniors.
- Pioneer Utility Grant — Annual grant to help seniors and others with utility costs.
- Yukon Housing Corporation — Seniors' housing and home repair programs.
Key Communities
Whitehorse — Home to over 75% of Yukon's population and virtually all formal senior care facilities. Whitehorse General Hospital and Copper Ridge Place anchor the care system.
Dawson City — The historic community has a health centre and community-based elder support, though intensive care requires travel to Whitehorse.
Watson Lake / Haines Junction — Smaller communities with health centres providing basic elder care and home support.
Tips for Families
- Contact Yukon Health and Social Services early to explore care options and start assessments.
- Home Care is the cornerstone of senior support in Yukon — take full advantage of available services.
- For First Nations seniors, coordinate with your First Nation's health department for additional supports.
- Plan for winter: ensure any facility is accessible and comfortable during Yukon's long, cold winters.
- Medical travel to Vancouver or Edmonton may be needed for specialized care — the territory covers costs for eligible seniors.
Finding the Right Community
SeniorHome.ca lists available senior living options in Yukon to help families plan ahead. While options are concentrated in Whitehorse, our listings provide the information you need to make informed decisions.