Assisted Living in BC essentially means the same thing as Supportive Living means in Alberta. Both are housing models consisting of private resident accommodation within a communal setting, provided with individualized hospitality and personal care services based on the unique needs of each resident. In BC and Alberta, both publicly funded and privately paid Assisted Living / Supportive Living accommodations are available, thereby making these services accessible to individuals of all income levels. Legislation and regulation is the same for all providers, regardless of funding source.

In BC, the inclusion of personal care services is what differentiates Assisted Living from other forms of seniors housing. All Assisted Living residences in BC must be registered with the Office of the Assisted Living Registrar. The Registrar is a government office responsible for ensuring health and safety standards for seniors are upheld in the Assisted Living environment. The Registrar’s web site offers useful information for seniors concerning Assisted Living residences.

In Alberta, the Supportive Living Accommodation Standards set out the mandatory requirements that both public and private operators must meet to ensure delivery of quality accommodation services to residents. The accommodation standards exist to ensure that all Supportive Living providers deliver services that enhance the safety, security and quality of life for residents. There are 32 specific standards which are explained in detail in this Alberta Health Services guide.