If you or someone you love is recovering from an illness, struggling with mobility, or just needs a bit of extra help to stay safe at home, you may be wondering: Who qualifies for home care services in Ottawa?
The good news is that home care is available for many people depending on their health, independence, and the type of support they need. In Ottawa, publicly funded home care is managed by Ontario Health atHome (this used to be called the LHIN).
Let’s break down how it works and who can apply.
You Must Live in Ontario and Have OHIP
To be eligible for publicly funded home care, you must:
- Live in Ontario
- Have a valid Ontario Health Card (OHIP)
As long as you meet these two basic requirements, you can request an assessment from Ontario Health atHome: Champlain Region, which serves Ottawa and the surrounding area.
Home Care Isn’t Just for Seniors
Many people think home care is only for older adults, but that’s not true. Home care is available to:
- Older adults who want to age at home
- Adults recovering from surgery or illness
- People with disabilities or chronic conditions
- Children who need medical care at home
There’s no specific age requirement. It’s more about your health needs and how much help you need to stay safe and independent.
Health Conditions That Require Support
Home care services are meant for people who can’t manage all their care on their own but want to stay at home instead of moving into a hospital or long-term care facility.
Some examples of conditions that may qualify you for home care:
- You’re recovering from surgery or a hospital stay
- You have a chronic illness like diabetes, heart disease, or MS
- You have limited mobility or memory issues
- You’re living with a disability
- You need help with bathing, dressing, or taking medications
You Need Help With Daily Tasks or Medical Care
Ontario Health atHome offers a wide range of services based on what you need. This can include:
- Nursing care (wound care, injections, IVs)
- Personal support (help with bathing, dressing, meals)
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
- Occupational therapy and speech therapy
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Social work or nutritional support
You may qualify for just one service or several, depending on your situation.
Your Home Must Be a Safe Place to Receive Care
Your living space matters too. To get home care, your home needs to be a safe place for both you and the care workers.
For example:
- There must be running water and electricity
- Pets should not pose any danger to visitors or home care workers
- The home should be reasonably clean and accessible
If it’s not safe, your care team might help you figure out ways to improve the space or suggest other options.
How the Assessment Works
Once you call Ontario Health atHome, they’ll assign you a Care Coordinator. This person will:
- Talk to you (and possibly your doctor or family)
- Ask questions about your health, daily life, and home environment
- Decide what services you’re eligible for
- Create a personal care plan
This assessment is free. You don’t need a referral from a doctor, although that can help. To get started, call 310‑2222 (no area code needed if you live in Ontario).
What If I Don’t Qualify?
If you don’t qualify for publicly funded home care or if you need more support than the public system offers, you still have options.
Choice Homecare can be your additional support team. We offer private home care services that are flexible, personalized, and available right away. If you need a few hours a week or full-time care, we’re here to help you or your loved one live comfortably and safely at home.
Getting help at home shouldn’t be complicated or stressful. If you’re unsure of whether or not you qualify, start by calling Ontario Health atHome, and consider calling our team at Choice Homecare for extra support.
From a few hours a week to full-time care, we’re here for you — call us today!