How to Access AHS Senior Living in Alberta
A step-by-step guide to navigating Alberta Health Services assessments, care levels and funding.
About this guide: Calgary Senior Living is an independent private directory. This is general information only — not medical or financial advice. For official AHS info visit alberta.ca or call Health Link 811.
Step-by-Step: Getting AHS Senior Care
Speak to Your Doctor
Ask your family physician for a referral to Alberta Health Services Home Care. This is the starting point for any AHS-funded senior living pathway.
AHS Needs Assessment
An AHS caseworker visits your home and completes a standardised assessment to determine the level of care needed. This is free and takes 1-2 hours.
Care Level Determined
AHS assigns a care level: Home Care, Supportive Living SL1-SL4D, or Long-Term Care. This determines which facilities and funding apply.
Choose Your Facilities
You will be given a list of contracted facilities at your care level. Our directory shows which facilities are AHS contracted.
Waitlist and Placement
AHS contracted beds often have waitlists of 6 months to 2 years. You can be on multiple waitlists at once. Private pay beds are typically available much faster.
Financial Assessment
For AHS-subsidised beds, a financial assessment determines your co-payment based on income. The maximum resident contribution rate for 2025-2026 is approximately $1,838/month for basic accommodation (set by Alberta Health annually).
Understanding Alberta Care Level Terms
Independent Living
For active seniors 55+ who are fully independent. Typical cost: $1,900-$3,500 per month.
Retirement Living
Includes meals, housekeeping, activities and light personal care. Typical cost: $2,800-$5,500 per month.
Supportive Living SL1-SL3
Alberta Health designation for assisted living. Personal care included. Typical cost: $3,000-$6,000 per month.
Supportive Living SL4 and SL4D
For residents with dementia needing a secure environment. Requires formal AHS assessment.
Long-Term Care
For complex ongoing medical needs requiring 24-hour nursing. Most beds government funded through AHS.
Respite Care
Short-term stays giving family caregivers a break. Some AHS funding available.
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