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Guide to Senior Benefits in Ontario

senior benefits ontario

It’s important to note that the details provided here are based on information available as of April 2025. Always consult official government sources or financial advisors for the most current information.​

Navigating the array of benefits available to seniors in Ontario can be complex, but understanding these programs is crucial for maximizing financial support and enhancing quality of life.

After retirement, older adults may require additional financial assistance to support their lifestyles. The Government of Ontario acknowledges this and has created several benefit plans to ease this economic pressure on older adults.

The average annual cost of living at home in Ontario for an older adult can be upwards of tens of thousands of dollars, excluding some variable costs. Meanwhile, living at Seasons Retirement Communities can help reduce these costs and unknown variables.

Below are some senior benefits Ontario can offer you or your loved one. We’ll review eligibility for each program and the financial help it provides.

1.   Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Retirement Pension

The Canada Pension Plan retirement pension is a taxable Canadian government senior benefit paid monthly to replace the income of an older adult after retirement. It is a payment that goes on for the rest of the recipient’s life.

That said, the monthly amount received by all eligible CPP candidates varies. The sum is determined by several factors, including the recipient’s average earnings during their working years, their contribution to the CPP based on their income, time away from work to care for their children, and the age chosen to begin receiving pension payments.

Although the typical age at which people receive the CPP is 65, older adults can obtain the benefit as early as 60 or even into their 70s. It is worth noting that the monthly payment increases with age, although the maximum monthly payment is reached at age 70.

There are a few eligibility criteria for the CPP payment, and they include:

  • Your loved one must be 60 years or older.
  • They must have made at least one valid input to the CPP. This could be from their work in Canada or from receiving credits from a former spouse or former common-law partner after the end of the relationship.

CPP payments are not automatic – applicants must apply online at least two weeks before the proposed start date. However, applicants should do so at least three months before the proposed date if they wish to submit physically or via mail.

Other CPP benefits for older adults in Ontario include post-retirement benefits, disability pension, post-retirement disability benefits, survivor’s pension, and children’s benefits.

2.   OAS/GIS/GAINS

These programs are some of the lucrative senior benefits Ontario has to offer.

Old Age Security (OAS) is a pension program that offers a monthly payment to adults aged 65 or older. This payment is taxable, and the amount an older adult receives is mainly determined by their income and time spent in Canada or other specific countries since turning 18.

Ideally, you or your loved one doesn’t need to apply for the OAS benefit, as Service Canada – the managing body – automatically enrolls eligible candidates. But in rare cases where Service Canada doesn’t have sufficient information to register your parents and grandparents, they’ll have to apply themselves.

Meanwhile, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is another monthly benefit for older adults who are at least 65 years old. To qualify for the GIS, you or your loved one must be a resident of Canada, a recipient of the Old Age Security pension, and a low-income earner – below the program’s maximum annual income threshold based on your older folk’s marital status.

Interestingly, the GIS benefit is not taxable. Even though the program’s managing body automatically registers eligible candidates in most instances, older adults should apply for the benefit themselves.

In Ontario, GIS beneficiaries can also receive the Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS) benefit, another non-taxable payment for older adults. If you or your loved one gets the OAS pension and the GIS benefit, there is no need to apply to receive GAINS.

It is essential to point out that the monthly amount paid out to eligible candidates of GAINS is reviewed every quarter to accommodate inflation changes in the province.

3.   Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB)

Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) is a program that covers a good proportion of the cost of approved drug prescriptions for individuals aged 65 years or above. It is one of Ontario’s best senior health benefits for older adults.

Although the ODB is primarily available to Ontario residents over 65, it is also open to younger people living in homes or communities who need special care services.

For your older adults to have their drug costs covered, their prescriptions must be filled by a pharmacy in Ontario. Fortunately, the Ontario Drug Benefit plan covers most of the cost of about 5,0000 prescription medications. These drugs include allergy shots, anti-diabetic products, nutrition products, and over-the-counter medications.

4.   Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program

The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program is another government-funded plan that provides health coverage for seniors in Ontario. It offers free routine dental services to low-income older adults at least 65 years old.

The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program covers several dental services, including examinations, X-rays, fixing broken teeth and cavities, plaque removal, and polishing.

After enrollment, the program can continue to run for up to a year, ending on July 31st, regardless of when one registers.

The following are requirements that your loved one must meet to qualify for this program.

  • They must be at least 65 years old.
  • They must live in Ontario.
  • They must meet the income requirements – an annual net income of no more than $22,200 for singles while no more than $37,100 for a couple.
  • They must not be receiving dental coverage under private insurance or other government benefit programs.

After confirming their eligibility, older adults can apply for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program online or by mail.

Other medical benefits for seniors in Ontario include:

5.   Assistive Devices Program (ADP)

The Ontario Assistive Devices Program (ADP) is designed to provide financial assistance to seniors who require specialized equipment to enhance their quality of life. This program helps cover the cost of medical equipment such as hearing aids, mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers), respiratory devices, and other essential items not fully covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Those who qualify for the ADP can receive coverage for a significant portion of the cost of these devices, which can be expensive. The program typically requires an application submitted by a healthcare provider who will confirm the necessity of the device. Each device may have specific eligibility criteria, so seniors must consult their healthcare provider and review the program guidelines to understand the exact coverage. ADP is an invaluable resource for older adults who need assistive technology to remain independent.

6.   Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) Benefits

Veterans living in Ontario may be eligible for various benefits through Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC). The VAC offers financial support, healthcare benefits, and services for seniors who have served in the Canadian Armed Forces. These benefits include a pension for war-related disabilities, healthcare services (including dental and vision care), and access to long-term care facilities specifically for veterans.

Veterans may also qualify for additional allowances, such as the War Veterans Allowance or Veterans Independence Program (VIP), which helps with home care, medical transportation, and other services. Seniors who served in the military or peacekeeping missions are encouraged to contact VAC to explore the full range of benefits available to them.

7.   Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for Seniors

Seniors in Ontario are eligible for continued coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), which provides comprehensive health insurance that covers most medically necessary services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and certain surgeries. However, seniors are responsible for some additional costs, such as dental and vision care, which may require separate insurance or assistance programs.

To help seniors with these additional healthcare costs, Ontario offers programs like the Trillium Drug Program, which covers prescription medication costs for those who spend a significant portion of their income on drugs (covered under the Ontario Drug Benefit program), and the Assistive Devices Program for seniors requiring specialized equipment. Older adults are advised to review all their healthcare options to maximize coverage and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

8. Transportation and mobility benefits

Navigating daily life with ease is essential for a comfortable retirement. Ontario offers several transportation and mobility supports for older adults. Seniors aged 65 and older can obtain the Seniors Public Transit Tax Credit – a refundable credit on yearly provincial tax returns. Furthermore, many municipalities, including Toronto and Ottawa, provide affordable public transit fares for seniors, often with accessible door-to-door services or community shuttles.

For Ontario residents with impairments that impede mobility, the Home and Vehicle Modification Program (HVMP) – funded by the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility and administered by March of Dimes – provides up to $15,000 in financial assistance for eligible home or vehicle modifications. These may include wheelchair lifts, steering aids, and hand controls, helping older adults maintain safe and independent mobility. In some regions, community agencies also offer taxi vouchers or assisted ride programs, making transportation more accessible for seniors living in rural or suburban areas.

9. Legal and estate planning

Having a comprehensive legal plan provides peace of mind. In Ontario, seniors are encouraged to prepare or update critical documents that protect their interests:

  • Will and power of attorney: A valid will ensures that assets are distributed according to one’s wishes. A power of attorney for property allows a trusted individual to manage finances if the senior becomes incapacitated.
  • Power of attorney for personal care: This document enables a designated person to make health and personal-care decisions, including long-term care and end-of-life choices.
  • Estate administration tax relief: A common-law spouse or dependent child may qualify for reduced probate fees in Ontario.
  • Legal aid clinics: The province supports legal aid services and public legal clinics, offering seniors free or low-cost counsel for estate planning matters and senior rights issues.

Working with a trusted legal advisor or using accredited “duty counsel” at community law clinics can help seniors navigate these essentials without confusion or risk.

10. Safety and security measures

Ontario offers several programs to help seniors feel safe in their homes and communities:

  • Home safety inspections: Agencies such as the local public health unit can arrange a free safety assessment to identify hazards like insufficient lighting, lack of grab bars, or loose carpeting.
  • Fire prevention initiatives: Seniors can request free in-home smoke and carbon-monoxide alarm installation through programs run by fire departments or the Ontario Fire Marshal.
  • Fortified communities: Many Regions now offer “safe-walk” buddy systems and emergency-response pendants or subscription-based personal alarms tailored to older adults.
  • Crime prevention outreach: Community safety programs and neighbourhood watch groups often host cyber safety, elder abuse awareness, and fraud prevention sessions designed specifically for older adults.

These supports help seniors remain secure in their homes and villages, both physically and digitally.

11. Caregiving support and resources

Whether a senior is providing care to a spouse or needs extra help themselves, Ontario’s caregiving resources are designed to ease the load:

  • Home and Community Care: Coordinated through Health Ontario Care Teams (formerly CCAC), this service provides home care visits, personal support services, respite care, and medical equipment support – all covered under OHIP for eligible seniors. 
  • Caregiver Tax Credit (Canada): Family members supporting dependent seniors at home may be eligible to claim non-refundable tax credits for caregiving expenses.
  • Veterans Independence Program (VIP): This program offers home support services, mental health support, personal care, and transportation to qualifying veterans.
  • Adult Day Programs: Many community centres and long-term care homes offer day programs that provide social interaction and structured activities, allowing caregivers to work or rest. Some may be subsidized based on need.
  • Support groups and respite programs: Regional Alzheimer societies, community health centres, or nonprofits (like VON and Canadian Red Cross) offer training, support groups, and scheduled respite to reduce caregiver stress.

Conclusion

The above are programs set up by the government to support and augment the finances of older people in Ontario. The information in this article can help you or your loved ones choose the most suitable senior benefits Ontario offers.

Seasons Retirement Communities always aims to offer suitable residence services for retired Canadians. If you or your loved one is looking for a retirement community near you, please check out one of the 15 Seasons locations across Ontario.

*Seasons Retirement Communities is not affiliated with these programs. For more information, please call 1-888-910-1999 or visit the Government of Ontario website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between CPP and OAS?

CPP (Canada Pension Plan) is a contributory retirement benefit based on your earnings and contributions during your working years, while OAS (Old Age Security) is a taxable monthly payment based on age and residency in Canada. You must apply for CPP, but OAS is often automatically enrolled.

Who qualifies for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program?

Seniors must be at least 65 years old, live in Ontario, have no private dental insurance, and have an annual net income of $22,200 or less (single) or $37,100 or less (couples). Eligible seniors can apply online or by mail.

Does the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) cover all prescriptions?

ODB covers most of the cost for over 5,000 approved medications for residents 65 and older. To qualify, the prescription must be filled at an Ontario pharmacy.

How can seniors apply for the Assistive Devices Program (ADP)?

Applications must be submitted by a healthcare provider who confirms the medical necessity. Seniors may receive partial coverage for devices like wheelchairs, respiratory equipment, and hearing aids.

Are veterans in Ontario eligible for special senior benefits?

Yes. Veterans can access benefits through Veterans Affairs Canada, including disability pensions, healthcare services, and home support via the Veterans Independence Program. Contact VAC for eligibility and application details.

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