Canada?s LTC can become a seamless, human-centered system that helps senior citizens get the care they need.

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Sarah Tranum, OCAD University
COVID-19 has amplified existing cracks in the long-term care (LTC) system in Canada. We need socially innovative solutions to help seniors age safely and with dignity.
From co-housing to community paramedicine programs, home-based primary care to publicly funded dementia villages, there is hope on the horizon.
As a social innovation designer, I study complex challenges with the aim to find the common approaches needed to solve these issues and not just manage the symptoms.
To better understand the challenges of the LTC system in Canada, I interviewed stakeholders involved in approaches attuned to individuals? needs at different stages of aging ? all of which are socially innovative. Here are some solutions that can help when it comes to redesigning the LTC system.
Senior co-housing
One of the goals outlined in the National Institute on Ageing?s National Seniors Strategy is to help seniors stay active, engaged and maintain their independence. But many seniors struggle finding suitable housing ? especially affordable housing.
While retirement homes exist, for many the costs are out of reach ? so some are choosing co-housing.
Louise Bardswich is a retired college dean and co-owns a home in Port Perry, Ont. She and three other women pulled their resources together to build a shared home.
This co-owned home was designed to all...