"Everyone deserves to live in comfort, with dignity and a little enjoyment thrown in as well. This is what assisted-living residences provide," says Susan Adams.

As the Registrar of Assisted Living in B.C., Susan oversees the province's 6,684 assisted-living units under the Community Care and Assisted Living Act, which came into effect in 2004.

As well as providing advice to developers and builders, Susan and her staff of three are involved in registering assisted-living developments and administering provincial health and safety standards. The office also investigates complaints from residents.

"Since opening in 2004, we have investigated 513 complaints about issues ranging from housekeeping to management," says Susan, who is a lawyer by training. "When we investigate, we work with the registrant to ensure compliance with the provincial legislation. We also investigate possible unregistered assisted-living residences."

Susan, 50, has had no personal experience with assisted living. Her mother still lives in her own home. However, she is proud that her work supports the province's larger aim of helping seniors remain independent as long as possible.

"The fact that I can contribute to this invaluable service by ensuring it is provided in a manner that protects the health and safety of residents is enormously satisfying," she says.

Under the legislation, assisted-living complexes with a minimum of three units must be registered with the government.

Costs for assisted-living units vary widely, depending on location and amenities. Some are for sale, while others are rental. Sixty-four per cent of B.C.'s assisted-living units are publicly subsidized, based on the occupant's after-tax income.

A health authority case manager determines eligibility for publicly subsidized assisted living. People qualify if they are eligible for home and community care services; require hospitality services and personal assistance (help with bathing or medications); can make decisions that will allow them to function safely in an assisted-living residence (or if they have a spouse that can make decisions on their behalf); and are at significant risk in their current living environment (falls, isolation, poor nutrition).

For more information, go to www.health.gov.bc.ca/assisted, or call 604-676-1414 or 1-866-714-3378.

AUGUST 2011 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND
AUGUST 2011 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND