Walk-In Bathtubs Sault Ste Marie, Ontario

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  • American Standard has been in business for 150 years and contrary to its name is very Canadian, with it's head office located in Mississauga, Ontario. They work with directly with Consumers, Seniors, Occupational Therapists, Healthcare Professionals, Builders, Architects, and Facility Managers. Best of all, American Standard is Age Safe Canada certified and Certified Aging in Place Specialists.


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Looking for Walk-in Bathtub For Seniors in Sault Ste Marie, Canada? Seniors Bulletin can help!
Age Gracefully In Your Own Home With A Walk-In Bath Tub.

Walk-In Bathtub Guide

Walk-In Bathtubs: What You Need To Know

senior walkin tub safety

In Canada, walk-in bathtubs are a type of bathtub designed to make getting in and out of the tub easier, particularly for those with mobility or accessibility issues. These tubs have a low step-in threshold, wide door that swings open, and grab bars for added stability and support. Walk-in bathtubs often come with features such as built-in seats, non-slip surfaces, and adjustable jets for hydrotherapy.

The goal of these tubs is to provide a safe and comfortable bathing experience for individuals who may otherwise struggle with traditional bathtubs.

To reduce your risk of falls in the bathroom, a walk-in bath tub may be your solution!

Wil Thomas

Wil Thomas

Editor at Seniors Bulletin
Table of Contents hide
Walk-In Bathtubs: What You Need To Know
Seniors Bulletin Ratings & Reviews for Sault Ste Marie
Best Overall
Best For DIY
What Is A Walk-in Tub?
Bathroom Safety: Do I Need A Walk-In BathTub?
Features: Bathtubs With Seats For Seniors
Different Styles Of Walk-In Tubs
Walk-In Bath Cost
Ontario Healthcare Facts
Advantages Of Walk-In Bath Tubs For Seniors
Disadvantages Of Walk-In Bath Tubs For Seniors
What To Look Out For When Purchasing A Walk In Bath Tub?
Legal And Construction Requirements For Walk-In Bathtubs In Canada
Funding For Walk-In Bath Tubs In Sault Ste Marie
Provincial
Not-For-Profit Organizations
Federal
Canada Not-For-Profit Organizations
More Walk-In Bath Tub Reviews
Related Posts
In Health News
Bulletin Ratings

Seniors Bulletin Ratings & Reviews for Sault Ste Marie

Best Overall

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Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, American Standard is a Canadian company with a 150-year history. They collaborate with a wide range of professionals, including consumers, seniors, healthcare experts, builders, architects, and facility managers. They specialize in manufacturing and installing customized walk-in tubs to meet the unique needs of their clients.

  • Age Safe Canada certified
  • Certified Aging In Place Specialists
  • uL, CSA, ETL certifications and audited each year
☆☆☆☆☆ 4.6/5
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1 (888) 956-0161
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kohler logo

Over 140 years of providing engineering excellence and experience, Kohler has built up a history of offering only the highest quality walk-in tubs that rival competition in form, function, and style. Not available everywhere in Canada.

☆☆☆☆☆ 4/5
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1 (800) 707-5276

Best For DIY

home depot logo

Home Depot offers several walk-in tubs from different manufacturers. If you are looking for cheaper walk-in tub options, Home Depot is a good place to start. Keep in mind, you will need your own contractors and installers or be a good DIYer.

☆☆☆☆☆ 3.8/5
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Sault Ste Marie Nearby Service Areas:
Guide To Walk-In Bathtubs

What Is A Walk-in Tub?

A walk-in bathtub is a kind of bath tub with a reduced threshold or step-in entrance, making it more convenient for individuals with reduced mobility to step in as well as out of the tub securely and comfortably. These bath tubs usually have built-in safety features like grab bars and slip-resistant surface areas, and also may even have jets for hydrotherapy. Basically, a walk-in bathtub is a type of bathtub that is designed to provide a safer and more accessible option for bathing, particularly for individuals with limited mobility.
The WEKARE 53 x 27 Compact Walk-In Bathtub
Recommended For

Bathroom Safety: Do I Need A Walk-In BathTub?

Individual who may need or find it helpful to have a walk-in bathtub are individuals that:

  • Mobility or balance issues: If an individual deal with getting in and out of a standard tub, a walk-in tub might deliver a safer as well as more accessible option.
  • Age: Elderly people may gain from the safety features and also comfortable design of a walk-in bathtub.
  • Physical disabilities: If a person has a physical disability that makes traditional bath tubs difficult to utilize, a walk-in bathtub may be a better solution.
  • Arthritis or joint pain: The integrated seat and also non-slip surface of a walk-in bathtub can give additional comfort as well as support for individuals with joint inflammation or joint problem.
  • Trouble with bending or stooping: If a person deal with bending or stooping, a walk-in bathtub with a reduced step-in threshold can make getting in and exiting the tub much easier.
  • Home modifications: If a person’s house has been customized to integrate a wheelchair, a walk-in tub can give a safer and also more accessible option for bathing.
  • Hydrotherapy: If an individual wants the advantages of hydrotherapy, a walk-in bath tub with adaptable jets can provide this.
walk-in-tub-safestep
Benefits & Features

Features: Bathtubs With Seats For Seniors

The features of a walk-in bathtub can vary depending on the particular design as well as brand name, however some common features consist of:

Low-Threshold Or Step-In Doorway

This makes it possible for individuals with limited mobility to effortlessly enter and exit the bath tub.

Slip-Resistant Surface Area

A textured or non-slip surface area helps reduce the chances of slips or falls while getting in or exiting the tub.

Built-In Grab Bars

These offer extra support as well as sturdiness for getting in and exiting the bath tub.

Adaptable Showerhead

A detachable or adaptable shower head makes it possible for the user to regulate the trajectory and flow of the bath water while showering.

Hydrotherapy Jets

A number of walk in bathtubs come equipped with jets that provide a relaxing and therapeutic massage.

Heated Surfaces

Some walk in tubs include heated surfaces, such as the bench or back rest, which provide added convenience as well as heat.

Easy-To-Use Controls

Many walk-in bathtubs have easy to use controls, such as digital display screens and also straightforward buttons, for adjusting the water temperature as well as flow.

Built-in Seat

A built-in seat delivers a comfortable as well as convenient place to sit while taking a bath or a shower.

Drain And Overflow

The tub needs to have a correctly working drainpipe as well as overflow to stop water from overruning and creating damages.

Door Seal

A door seal serves to keep water inside the bathtub, improving the efficiency of the bathtub and decreasing the possibility of water leaks.
These are some of the most usual components of walk-in bath tubs. Even so, it is important to thoroughly consider the certain needs and needs of the individual when selecting a bathtub, as well as to decide on a style with elements that meet those needs.
Categories

Different Styles Of Walk-In Tubs

Walk-in bathtubs can be categorized based on their functions and also model. Here are some of the standard styles of walk-in bath tubs:

Soaking Walk-In Tubs

These are basic walk-in tubs that are built for simple soaking and relaxation. They generally have a smooth and comfortable interior, without any jets or other therapeutic attributes.

Whirlpool Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in tubs are outfitted with jets that produce a churning water, providing a massage-like experience . They can be useful for those with muscular tissue strain or stress.

Air Jet Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in tubs are similar to whirlpool bathtubs but work with air jets as opposed to water jets to produce a bubbling massage effect.

Combination Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in tubs integrate soaking, whirlpool, as well as air jet features in one system, delivering many options for a relaxing and therapeutic showering experience.

Bariatric Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in bathtubs are made to accommodate larger people or those with mobility challenges. They are often wider as well as deeper than standard walk-in tubs as well as may have added safety functions, such as reinforced walls and added grab bars.

Shower Walk-In Tubs

These walk-in tubs are made to be utilized as both a tub as well as a shower, with an integrated seat, adjustable handheld showerhead, as well as a low threshold entrance.
It is important to take into account the unique requirements and also preferences of the user when choosing a walk-in bathtub, in addition to the size and configuration of the bathroom, to make sure that a comfortable and also safe bathing experience.
Costs

Walk-In Bath Cost

The cost of a walk-in bath tub in Canada can vary widely being dependent on the size, building material, features, and brand name of the bathtub. Generally, the cost of a basic walk-in bath tub can run from $2,000 to $7,000, while more extravagant styles with additional features can cost upwards of $10,000 or higher.

It is essential to mention that the cost of a walk-in bathtub can additionally depend upon the specific needs and needs of the individual, as well as the cost of install. It is encouraged to obtain quotes from different companies to compare prices and also find the best solution for your finances and requirements.

Aside from that, it is a good plan to take into consideration things such as the durability, quality, and maintenance requirements of the tub prior to choosing.

Ontario Healthcare Facts

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors in Canada. In 2017, approximately one in three seniors aged 65 and over reported falling at least once in the previous 12 months. Falls can result in serious injuries, including fractures, head injuries, and hospitalization, and can lead to decreased mobility and independence.

It’s important for seniors and their caregivers to take steps to prevent falls and ensure a safe living environment, including installing safety devices such as grab bars, non-slip mats, and walk-in bathtubs. Regular exercise and maintaining good physical health can also help reduce the risk of falls.

Pros

Advantages Of Walk-In Bath Tubs For Seniors

A walk-in bathtub can offer several advantages for seniors, including:

Increased Safety

Walk-in tubs are constructed with safety benefits, such as low-threshold or step-in entrances, slip-resistant surfaces, integrated grab bars, and also adaptable shower heads, which can help reduce the risk of falls as well as accidents.

Increased Accessibility

A walk-in tub allows people with limited mobility to conveniently enter and go out the bathtub, making it a more accessible option for seniors.

Comfort And Relaxation

Several walk-in tubs are equipped with hydrotherapy jets, heated surface areas, and built-in seats, which can give a relaxing and also restorative experience for the elderly.

Increased Hygiene

A walk-in tub can make it easier for elderly people to maintain their individual hygiene, as they do not have to step over a high tub side to enter and out of the bathtub.

Increased Personal Freedom

By providing a safer as well as more accessible alternative for washing, a walk-in bath tub can assist elderly people maintain their independence and also dignity.

Strengthened Blood Circulation

The warm water and hydrotherapy jets can boost blood circulation and help ease soreness and also tightness in the muscular tissues as well as joints.

Reduced Stress and Anxiousness

Bathing in a walk-in bath tub can be a comforting as well as stress-free experience, which can help in reducing stress and also tension levels for seniors.
These are just some of the benefits that a walk-in bathtub can provide for elderly people. Of course, it is necessary to properly look at the unique needs as well as requirements of the individual when choosing a bathtub, and also to pick a design that meets those needs.
See The SeniorsBulletin Canada Ratings
Cons

Disadvantages Of Walk-In Bath Tubs For Seniors

While walk-in bathtubs can offer several benefits for seniors, there are also some potential disadvantages, including:

Costs

Walk-in bathtubs can be more pricy than conventional bathtubs, that may make them problematical for some individuals to afford.

Space Requirements

Walk-in bath tubs are typically larger than conventional tubs, which can be a concern if the bathroom is small or has restricted area.

Installation Difficulties

Installing a walk-in tub can be much more complex than installing a standard bathtub, and might require considerable renovation work in the room.

Repair And Maintenance Requirements

Walk-in tubs frequently have more features as well as moving parts than conventional tubs, which can make them more difficult to manage as well as clean.

Limited Options

There are fewer options available for walk-in bathtubs compared to traditional bathtubs, which can make it more challenging to find a model that meets the specific needs and requirements of the individual.

Time Required For Filling And Draining The Tub

It can take longer to fill and drain a walk-in bathtub than a traditional bathtub, which can be an issue for seniors who have limited time or patience.

Water Usage

Walk-in bathtubs often require more water to fill than traditional bathtubs, which can lead to higher water bills and be more environmentally impactful.

These are some of the disadvantages of walk-in bathtubs for seniors. However, it is important to carefully consider the specific needs and requirements of the individual and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of a walk-in bathtub before making a decision.

See The SeniorsBulletin Canada Ratings
Buying Guide

What To Look Out For When Purchasing A Walk In Bath Tub?

When buying a walk-in tub, it is necessary to consider several key factors to make certain that you decide on the best product for your needs: These are several of the vital factors to take into consideration when buying a walk-in bath tub. It is necessary to carefully research study as well as compare different items and brands to locate the one that ideal meets your demands, budget, and also choices.

Safety Attributes

Search for features such as slip-resistant surface areas, integrated grab bars, and a low step-in height to ensure optimal safety.

Dimension

Make certain that the walk-in bathtub you select will fit in your bathroom as well as is the ideal size for your requirements.

Style

There are several different styles of walk-in bath tubs offered, including soaking tubs, whirlpool bathtubs, and air jets. Consider the design that best meets your needs as well as preferences.

Material

Walk-in tubs are commonly constructed from fiberglass, acrylic, or porcelain. Each component has its individual advantages as well as drawbacks, so it’s important to explore as well as compare to find the one that best suits your requirements.

Price

Walk-in bathtubs can vary in rate from numerous hundred to several thousand bucks, depending on the brand name, style, and functions. It’s important to establish a budget as well as contrast costs to locate the very best worth.

Guarantee

Search for a walk-in tub with a service warranty that supplies sufficient insurance coverage and also protection.

Installation

Take into consideration the installation requirements and any kind of possible renovation work needed for the walk-in bathtub. Some models might require professional setup, while others may be created for DIY installation.

Buying Guide

Legal And Construction Requirements For Walk-In Bathtubs In Canada

The legal requirements for walk-in bathtubs in Canada can vary based on the province or territory, but some common regulations include:

  1. Building Code: Walk-in bathtubs must meet the requirements of the National Building Code of Canada and the local building codes in each province.
  2. Plumbing Code: The installation of a walk-in bathtub must meet the requirements of the National Plumbing Code of Canada and the local plumbing codes in each province.
  3. Accessibility standards: Walk-in bathtubs must comply with accessibility standards such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) B651 standard for accessible bathing facilities in the home.
  4. Product safety standards: Walk-in bathtubs must meet safety standards such as the CSA B45.5 standard for walk-in bathtubs.

Funding For Walk-In Bath Tubs In Sault Ste Marie

Provincial

Overview

Government program that provides support and funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities. Provides access to assistive devices that meet individuals’ basic needs.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

Ontario residents with a valid Ontario Health Card who have a physical disability of 6 months or longer.

ADP will not pay for equipment available under the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) or to Group “A” Veterans for their pensioned conditions.

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Overview

Income and employment support to help people with disabilities live as independently as possible.

Eligibility

Your eligibility for ODSP depends on medical and financial circumstances. Find out what information we look at when deciding your eligibility, and how much you can earn and keep in assets while being on ODSP. Learn how these affect your income support and eligibility on ODSP.

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Overview

OW is a social assistance program that provides money and help finding employment.

Basic Eligibility

Individuals may be eligible for OW if:

  • Live in Ontario
  • Need money right away to help pay for food and housing costs
  • Willing to take part in activities that will help you find a job

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Overview

In Ontario, Seniors can make their homes safer and more accessible with the help of this new tax credit in 2021 & 2022.

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Effective tax year 2023, the Seniors’ home safety tax credit was eliminated.

Overview

Seniors who are low-to-moderate income senior, you may be eligible for up to $500 back on your property taxes.

Eligibility

Ontario seniors, who are 64 years of age or older, who paid Ontario property tax for the year and owned and occupied their principal residence may qualify for this grant amount. Some income requirements also need to be met.

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Overview

Ontario government agency that provides compensation for injured workers. WSIB may provide funding for the following:

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

Client may be eligible for WSIB if they had a work-related injury/disease. May be eligible for funding for assistive/mobility devices.

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Not-For-Profit Organizations

Overview

Equipment loan pool and may provide partial assistance with funding for equipment for those with ALS.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices
  • Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Applicants must be registered with ALS Ontario to qualify for assistance Proof of Income required (CRA Notice of Assessment)

 

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Overview

May provide assistance with funding for medical equipment or renovations.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices
  • Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Individuals with spinal cord injury may be eligible for funding.

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Overview

Provides programs and services to children and youth with physical disabilities across Ontario. Possible maximum of $3,000 for all equipment/service requests per client. Batteries, repairs and replacement parts are not funded.

  • Mobility Equipment
  • Accessibility Equipment
  • Assistive Equipment ie. Bathing Toileting Equipment

Basic Eligibility

  • Parents must attempt to access all other funding sources first.
  • Funded items must be authorized by a healthcare professional.

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Overview

You could get money to help with the cost of making your home and vehicle more accessible if you or your child has a disability that restricts mobility.

Eligibility

The program is available to permanent residents of Ontario who live with a substantial disability that impacts their mobility and daily function, and who can’t afford the modifications they need to maximize their independence.

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Overview

The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) of the March of Dimes assists adults with physical disabilities who are in financial need to purchase assistive devices to increase their mobility and functional independence.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

  • 19 years of age or older
  • Has an ongoing physical limitation that requires the use of an assistive device
  • In financial need (refer to the Income Eligibility chart)
  • A permanent resident of Ontario

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Overview

Organization’s mission is that older adults with a developmental disability have the same rights to support and services as all older Ontarians.

  • Home modifications

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Federal

Overview

The HATC is a non-refundable tax credit for eligible home renovation or alteration expenses that allow a qualifying individual to gain access to, or to be mobile or functional within the eligible dwelling or reduce the risk of harm to the qualifying individual within the dwelling or in gaining access to the dwelling.

Eligibility

  • Must be 65 years or older, or
  • Medical practitioner must fill out and certify that you have a severe and prolonged impairment and must describe its effects on you
  • Up to $10,000/Year

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Overview METC is a non-refundable tax credit for a claimed medical expenses under a qualifying and eligible list.  Both the METC and the HATC can be claimed for the same expense. Eligibility
  • Eligible medical expenses for yourself, spouse/common-law partner & dependent children (Stairlift needs doctor’s prescription)
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Overview

The Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit in Canada for individuals who have a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental function. An impairment qualifies as prolonged if it is expected to or has lasted at least 12 months.

While this will not directly support any home accessibility equipment or medical alert systems, if eligible, it can provide you with a maximum credit of $8,870 for an adult, which can help towards those needs.

Basic Eligibility

A medical practitioner must certify you as eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. They must state you have a severe and prolonged impairment in 1 of the categories, significant limitations in 2 or more categories, or receive therapy to support a vital function.

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Canada Not-For-Profit Organizations

Overview

Ceridian Cares provides grants for the following types of needs:

  • Clothing and Footwear: Seasonal clothing, boots, shoes, children’s clothing, work clothing, outerwear
  • Food and Basic Household Needs: Food, blankets, mattresses, cookware/dishes, small appliances, towels, diapers, cribs, personal hygiene
  • Medical Devices and Therapies: Prosthetics, eyewear, medical equipment, home adjustments for barrier free living, respite services, braille books, short-term counselling services, physiotherapy
  • Personal Development and Recreation: Children’s programs, camp, art supplies, books, athletic programs

Please note: These are examples only and the list is not exhaustive. Grants typically range from $200 to $4000 to a maximum grant of $5000.

Basic Eligibility

Applicant must be

  • 18 years of age or older
  • A Canadian resident
  • An individual or family in need of financial assistance related to the types of items supported by Ceridian Cares

Please note: Ceridian Cares will not provide grants to the same recipient in consecutive years.

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Overview Easter Seals is Canada’s largest local provider of programs, services, and issues-leadership and development for the disability community. Each province has their own funding. It is recommend that you check your local province’s brand for specific funding opportunities. Basic Eligibility Not Applicable. View website

Overview

The Home Adaptations for Seniors’ Independence Program (HASI) is a Canadian government-funded program that provides financial assistance for age-related home adaptations to improve the quality of life and independence of First Nation or First Nation members living on reserve who are 65 years old or older and have difficulty with daily living activities brought on by aging. The program helps with necessary adaptations to homes to maintain independence and improve quality of life. The total household income of the senior occupant must also be at or below a specified limit to qualify for assistance. The program is designed to help seniors assess their own unique circumstances and identify the types of difficulties seniors can experience in the home and describes adaptations to overcome these difficulties.

Basic Eligibility

  • The applicant must be 65 years or older.
  • The applicant must be a First Nation or Inuit person living on reserve.
  • The applicant must have difficulty with daily living activities brought on by aging.
  • The total household income of the senior occupant must be at or below a specified limit to qualify for assistance.
  • The applicant must own or rent the home in which the adaptations are to be made.

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Overview March of Dimes Canada is an organization that provides a wide range of services to people with disabilities throughout the country. March of Dimes Canada Assistive Devices Program assists adults with physical disabilities who are in financial need to purchase assistive devices that increase their mobility and functional independence. The Program can help to buy, repair and maintain a wide variety of mobility or assistive equipment. The Program may also have contact information or resources to assist you in locating additional funding sources. Basic Eligibility Available for low-income individuals & families. It is suitable for ongoing/recurring disability that is anticipated to last more than one year. The disability results in restrictions in activities of daily living. Max Funding Up to $15,000. Some devices that may qualify for funding include:
  • Manual and Power Wheelchairs
  • Scooters
  • Replacement Batteries
  • Walkers
  • Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO)
  • Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)
  • Home and Bath Aids
  • Floor Patient Lifts
  • Basic Aids for Daily Living
  • Repairs to Existing​ Devices
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Overview Organization dedicated to raising awareness and educating people about neuromuscular disease. Loan pool and may provide assistance with funding for equipment for those with MD. Assistive devices Mobility devices Home modifications Eligibility Maximum contribution per item: $2,640 Client minimum contribution: $200.00 – Equipment costing less than $200 is not eligible – You must be a registered client of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Muscular Dystrophy Canada will not issue reimbursements. Be sure to complete the application process and receive approval from our office, prior to purchasing the item. View website

Overview

Provides services to people with multiple sclerosis and their families and funds research to find the cause and cure for this disease.

Loan pool and may provide assistance with funding for equipment for those with MS.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices
  • Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Funding eligibility varies from province to province – check the website for more information.

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Overview

The Veterans Independence Program for primary caregivers provides annual tax-free funding to help cover the cost for services such as grounds maintenance and housekeeping. This program helps the primary caregivers – of a Veteran who was receiving the Veterans Independence Program and who has now moved to long term care or is deceased – remain in their home and community.

This program does not replace other federal, provincial or municipal programs. Instead, it is intended to work with those programs to help meet your needs.

  • Assistive devices
  • Mobility devices
  • Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

To qualify for either housekeeping and/or grounds maintenance, the Veteran must have been eligible for that service through the Veterans Independence Program and has now moved to long term care or is deceased.

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More Information on Funding & Financial Assistance
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