
Phased Retirement: A Practical Guide for Canadians
Phased retirement has emerged as a workplace strategy that enables older employees to gradually transition from full-time work to retirement, by reducing their responsibilities and
Aging is an inevitable and natural process that we and our parents face. It can be a positive experience but it can also hold many challenges. Maintaining good physical health and mental acuity is the key to stay healthy and maintain wellness over the years. It is fortunate that in Ontario, the health system consists of health professionals and community services that can provide health services for older adults at no or little cost to the patient.
The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) is a comprehensive, publicly-funded health insurance program that serves as the cornerstone of healthcare in the province of Ontario, Canada. Administered by the Ontario Ministry of Health, OHIP ensures that all eligible residents have access to a wide range of medically necessary healthcare services without incurring direct costs at the point of service. Through OHIP, the Ontario government funded care strives to promote equitable access to healthcare, safeguarding the well-being of its diverse population and fostering a healthier, more resilient community.
With an emphasis on preventive care, chronic disease management, and support for independent living, OHIP aims to foster an age-friendly environment that empowers seniors to lead healthy, active, and fulfilling lives.
Ontario seniors benefits from OHIP but low-income seniors, and seniors without private insurance benefit the most as it provides comprehensive care regardless of income status.
To qualify for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), an individual must meet specific eligibility requirements. These include:
You can apply online for an OHIP card here.
Older Canadians looking for information regarding healthcare coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Program should read this article to learn about what benefits are covered at age 65+.
Here are some things OHP offers seniors.
OHIP provides coverage for routine eye examinations once every 18 months for seniors aged 65 and over.
Aging seniors need to take great care of their vision, because it helps them stay independent. Visits to an ophthalmologist are a wonderful way to begin taking care of their sight.
Seniors aged 65 and over receive coverage for more than 4,400 prescription medications, select over-the-counter drugs, and nutritional supplements through the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) Program. This benefit helps cover some costs associated with medications. OHIP covers some medication costs for seniors, but not all prescriptions. Some medications prescribed require patients to purchase those items on their own.
The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) is a program that offers free, routine dental care for low-income seniors aged 65 and over, ensuring access to essential oral health services.
Assistive Devices Program (ADP): ADP helps cover the costs of various assistive devices for eligible seniors, such as mobility aids, hearing aids, and respiratory equipment.
OHIP covers various home and community care services for seniors, including nursing, personal support, and therapy services, to help them maintain their independence and quality of life. They promote seniors living at home by providing services to them without needing long term care homes.
Some health care professional services that Home And Community Care Support Services include:
Some personal support services that Home And Community Care Support Services include:
Some respite services that Home And Community Care Services include:
Note: You may have to pay a fee for some of these programs or you may find there is funding or subsidies available.
Long-term Care: Ontario funds long-term care homes, providing seniors with access to 24-hour nursing care, personal care, and various support services when they can no longer live independently.
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) covers basic healthcare services for those 65 years old and over. This means that OHIP pays for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, dental work, vision exams, hearing aids, home care, nursing homes, rehabilitation centres, and physiotherapy sessions. Although there are few limits
Phased retirement has emerged as a workplace strategy that enables older employees to gradually transition from full-time work to retirement, by reducing their responsibilities and
Pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy, has gained recognition as an effective non-pharmacological treatment for many patients, including seniors. It is a goal-oriented intervention
6 thoughts on “Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP): A Guide For Seniors”
Does OHIP coverer cost regarding Acupuncture done by a Medical Doctor?
Do I need my doctor’s referral for physiotherapy? I am 68 years old.
Can I get my pre authorization for drugs covered under the plan approved for 6 months prior to spending winter months in Florida and without having to go through Canada Life. I have been trying to reach Canada Life for 3 months. We are leaving for Florida on November 10, 2023.
I am 66, I require a hearing aid for my right ear. Will OHIP cover the cost for this, I have already gone to a specialist Dr. Fox, st josephs hospital, letter provided recommending hearing aid.
I am 66 and need a dental bridge for 1 tooth I have no insurance and only income is CPP. May i have this tooth fixed asap as there is a gap with missing tooth for 9 months. I would really appreciate your assistance. Thank you.
I am 66 & need a dental tooth bridge. I am retired on CPP, would like to have tooth taken care of asap as I have had a gap with no tooth for 9 months. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.