Alberta Health Services (AHS) is dedicated to helping Albertans maintain their independence and well-being within the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible. The Alberta Health Services Home Care Program plays a crucial role in achieving this goal by delivering essential health and personal care services directly to individuals in their residences and various community settings. These services are publicly funded and designed to support people of all ages, ensuring they can live safely and comfortably at home.
Understanding the Alberta Health Services Home Care Program
The Home & Community Care program, now evolving under the Alberta Continuing Care Act, provides publicly funded personal and healthcare services to eligible Albertans. This program is designed for individuals living in private residences, including apartments within retirement communities or lodges, who require support to manage their health and daily living activities. The core philosophy of home care is to empower clients to remain independent and supplement the valuable support already provided by their families and community networks. It focuses on fostering client autonomy and delivering care in the most comfortable and familiar environment – their home.
Who Can Benefit from Home Care Services?
Eligibility for an assessment for Alberta Health Services Home Care is primarily based on having a valid Alberta Health Care insurance plan number. The program is intended for individuals who need assistance with activities of daily living due to health challenges, disability, or age-related limitations. These activities might include personal hygiene, medication management, mobility, and other essential tasks necessary for maintaining independence and safety at home. Home care services step in when individuals are unable to perform these activities independently or lack sufficient support from other sources.
The Dedicated Home Care Team
Alberta Health Services directly provides and contracts with other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive home care services. A team of skilled professionals works collaboratively to support clients in their communities. Depending on individual needs, the care team may include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and home care aides. The client and their family are considered integral partners within this care team, actively participating in care planning and decision-making. The focus is on a client-centered approach, ensuring services are tailored to meet unique needs and preferences.
Accessing Home Care Support in Alberta
To learn more about the Alberta Health Services Home Care Program or to access services, Albertans can easily connect with a home care office in their zone. A convenient option is to dial 811, a 24/7 service connecting you with health information and resources, including home care services. Alternatively, specific contact numbers for local home care offices are available based on your geographic zone within Alberta. When you reach out, you will be connected with a healthcare professional who can address your questions, provide detailed information about available community resources and supports, and discuss your healthcare needs. They can also conduct an initial assessment and facilitate a referral to the most appropriate AHS healthcare provider or service to support your home care journey. Anyone can call for information and guidance, whether for themselves or on behalf of a loved one.
