B.C.’s Innovative Approach to Long-Term Care: Small Homes, Big Impact?
Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) is pioneering a novel model of long-term care, shifting away from large institutions and towards smaller, home-like environments. This initiative comes as British Columbia faces a ballooning waitlist for long-term care beds, driven by a growing senior population. The move aims to address not only capacity issues but also to improve the quality of life for residents and the working conditions of care staff.
From Institutions to Neighbourhoods
Under the new plan, VCH will purchase existing houses in communities like Vancouver, North Vancouver, and Richmond, and retrofit them to operate as licensed long-term care facilities. Each “Small Care Home” will accommodate up to 10 residents, offering private rooms and shared spaces like kitchens, living rooms, and outdoor areas. Residents will receive 24/7 clinical care, designed to feel more like living in a regular home than a traditional care facility.
Health Minister Josie Osborne emphasized the goal of preserving dignity and connection through this model, bridging the gap between independent living and traditional long-term care. The initiative is designed to provide the “right level of support as people’s needs change.”
The Evidence Behind the Shift
Yasmin Jetha, VCH’s vice-president of community services, highlights that the household-style model is evidence-based. Research suggests that smaller, more intimate settings are particularly beneficial for seniors, especially those living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. “What we know… with all the research being done, is that the best way for caring for seniors is in a home-like environment,” she stated.
The benefits extend beyond resident well-being. Laura Tamblyn Watts, CEO of CanAge, believes the model will facilitate reduce staff burnout, a significant problem in the long-term care sector. Staff turnover is currently high, with employees lasting an average of just 18 months in traditional facilities. Small care homes are expected to offer a more sustainable and rewarding work environment.
Addressing a Growing Crisis
A recent report by B.C. Seniors Advocate Dan Levitt revealed a concerning trend: the number of people waiting for publicly funded long-term care has increased by over 200% since 2016. Currently, seniors are waiting nearly 10 months for a bed, compared to five months in 2016. The senior population has grown by 19% during the same period, although long-term care beds have only increased by 5%.
Levitt called VCH’s approach “innovative” and “pragmatic,” but cautioned that it’s not a complete solution. He stressed the continued need to build more traditional long-term care homes to meet the increasing demands of an aging population.
Challenges and Concerns
While the small care home model is gaining support, some concerns remain. Tamblyn Watts points out that the limited capacity of these homes – only 10 residents each – means they won’t significantly alleviate the overall waitlist. She also warned that planned cuts to overtime and agency staff funding could exacerbate existing staffing shortages.
“This is not an either-or situation,” Tamblyn Watts said. “The existing long term care home providers are going to need help… to rebuild, to renovate, to modernize and right now government isn’t providing much in the way of support.”
VCH plans to open the first three small care homes in Spring 2026, with a goal of creating approximately 200 new beds by 2029.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Small Care Home?
A Small Care Home is a licensed long-term care facility located in a regular residential house, accommodating up to 10 residents and providing 24/7 clinical care.
Why is B.C. Implementing this model?
To address the growing waitlist for long-term care, improve the quality of life for seniors, and create a more sustainable work environment for care staff.
Will this solve the long-term care crisis?
While a positive step, experts believe it’s not a complete solution and that building more traditional long-term care homes is also necessary.
Where will these homes be located?
Initially, VCH is focusing on purchasing homes in Vancouver, North Vancouver, and Richmond.
When will the first homes open?
The first three Small Care Homes are expected to open in Spring 2026.
Did you know? Staff in smaller care homes tend to have lower turnover rates, leading to more consistent and personalized care for residents.
Pro Tip: If you are considering long-term care options for a loved one, explore all available resources and advocate for their needs. Contact B.C. Seniors Advocate for support and information.
What are your thoughts on this new approach to long-term care? Share your comments below!
