Older Adult Services

In Kingston, about 21 per cent of our population is 65 or older. This number has steadily been growing over the last 20 years. We are currently seeing a record number of the working age population entering retirement as the population over 65 continues to grow!

Age-friendly communities 

In recent years, Kingston has been working to make the city more welcoming for older adults as part of the ‘age-friendly’ initiative by the World Health Organization. In 2015, we asked adults (45 and up) about things like activities, safety, health and how friendly they found the city for older adults. 

During these efforts, older adults told us four main things: 

• • They want to keep living in their own homes
  • They want to be part of the Kingston community and do things
  • They want to know where to find help when they need it
  • They want people to treat them with respect

Programs to help you at home

Staying in your home programs means you can save on taxes, get assistance with household tasks and receive help from your neighbours and local community. 

Older adults tax assistance programs

We offer tax assistance programs to help with taxes for older adults, especially when they retire and their finances change. This ensures they follow tax rules and get the support they require. Learn more about application requirements on our tax assistance and rebates page.

• • Senior Property Tax Credit program: Older adults getting the Guaranteed Income Supplement can get a $100 tax credit 
  • Tax deferral program: Older adults who own a home and get the Guaranteed Income Supplement can defer paying up to $1,000 in taxes 

Home help and maintenance 

The Seniors Association offers various support programs, connecting older adults with service providers who can help with tasks like home maintenance, shopping and cleaning. You can reach them at 613-548-7810 for assistance. 

Additionally, subsidized homemaking services are available to support elderly, disabled, ill or recovering individuals, enabling them to continue living in their own homes. 

Community supports 

If you are not sure where to get help, you can dial 211 on any phone. It is a free call and customer service reps are ready to assist you 24/7 to connect you with community resources. You can also visit their website 211 Ontario for information on various support services for older adults.