BC Seniors’ Guide to Home Care Funding: HAFI, CSIL & Private Care

Living independently in Vancouver, Surrey, or White Rock is the goal for most seniors. But navigating the British Columbia healthcare system to find funding can be challenging. Whether you are looking for the CSIL program or home adaptation grants, this guide breaks down your options.

1. Publicly Subsidized Home Support (Fraser Health & Vancouver Coastal Health)

In British Columbia, home support services are subsidized but not always free. Access is determined by an assessment from your local health authority (e.g., Vancouver Coastal Health or Fraser Health).

The Limitation: Public home support is task-oriented (e.g., "15 minutes for medication administration"). It rarely provides the continuous companionship or supervision needed for dementia care.

2. CSIL: Choice in Supports for Independent Living

For those who want more control, the CSIL program is a "self-managed" model. Instead of the health authority sending their own staff, they provide you with funds to hire your own care providers.

• Pros: You choose who comes into your home and when.
• Cons: You become the "employer," responsible for payroll, WCB, and hiring.

Did you know? Many families use CSIL funding to help offset the cost of private home care in Vancouver, hiring an agency like TheKey to manage the staffing headaches while maintaining control over the care plan.

3. HAFI: Home Adaptations for Independence

The HAFI program provides financial assistance to low-income seniors and people with disabilities to modify their homes.

• Grant Amount: Up to $20,000 in financial assistance.
• Use it for: Handrails, walk-in bathtubs, and better lighting.

The "Hybrid Care" Solution

Most families in the Lower Mainland find that public funding covers the "medical basics," but leaves gaps in daily quality of life. A successful strategy often involves:

1. Step 1: Secure your assessment from Fraser Health or VCH for medical visits.
2. Step 2: Apply for HAFI grants to safety-proof the home.
3. Step 3: Partner with TheKey (serving Surrey & White Rock) for the critical hours in between—providing transportation, meal preparation, and cognitive engagement.

Local Hospital Discharge Support

Returning home from Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), St. Paul's, or Surrey Memorial? Our Care Managers coordinate directly with hospital discharge planners to ensure a safe transition home, reducing the risk of readmission.