The Supportive Care Program supports eligible Nova Scotians with cognitive impairments (difficulty thinking, concentrating, remembering, etc.) by providing them with up to $1,000/month for Home Support Services (personal care, respite, meal preparation and household chores). Under this program people may also be eligible to receive reimbursement for snow removal services up to $495/year.
To receive funding for Supportive Care, you must:
You can apply by calling Continuing Care toll-free at 1-800-225-7225. Once approved, the money will be deposited into your bank account by the Department of Health and Wellness every month. All receipts for services must be submitted to the Nova Scotia Health Authority.
Once a Supportive Care recipient has been approved for assistance with snow removal services, he/she will be reimbursed for up to $495/year. All receipts for services must be submitted to the Nova Scotia Health Authority for reimbursement. You must be considered low income, which is an annual net income of $30,797 or less if single or $45,797 or less if married, to be eligible for reimbursement of snow removal costs.
There are many companies who provide these services. Some can be found in the Department of Seniors’ Programs for Positive Aging, which can be read online at Programs for Positive Aging.
Home support and snow removal services may also be purchased from private companies or people living within your community.
Funding under this program cannot be used to purchase services from:
No, you do not have to report this funding as income on your income tax return because it is considered payment for medical expenses (attendant/respite services) by the Canada Revenue Agency.
Expenses incurred under this program cannot be claimed when filing income tax returns.
The Department of Health and Wellness, Continuing Care Division has created policies and monitoring standards to ensure that there is a consistent quality of care for those who need services outside of the hospital, in their home, or in the community.
Visit Policies and Standards page.
To apply, call Continuing Care, at 1-800-225-7225.
Supportive Care Program (PDF)
Supportive Care Program: French (PDF)