Office of the Seniors Advocate

08/31/2026

Our September newsletter is here!
Catch up on the latest news from the Office of the Seniors Advocate, including updates on our work, resources for older adults and caregivers, research and issues affecting seniors in B.C.
➡️ Read the newsletter: https://ow.ly/nCz750ZHvUm
➡️ Subscribe to receive future editions: https://ow.ly/KPiC50ZHvUo

08/28/2026

B.C. has set the maximum allowable rent increase at 2.2%, effective January 1, 2027.

For seniors on fixed or limited incomes, predictable housing costs can make a real difference.

Landlords must provide at least three months’ notice and can only increase rent once every 12 months.
Learn more:

Maximum allowable rent increase set at 2.2% for 2027

08/27/2026

08/26/2026

Looking for reliable information on long-term care or assisted living in B.C.?

The OSA searchable online directory brings together standardized information on publicly-subsidized long-term care and assisted living homes across the province.

Compare locations, services, room types and more, all in one place.

Search the directory: https://ow.ly/ulo350ZFURE

08/25/2026

What to do when officials say you can return home after an Evacuation Order is rescinded:

Use extreme caution when entering, checking for damage ✔️

Contact your insurance provider if damage has occurred ✔️

Deep clean your living space ✔️

Continue monitoring for new Evacuation Alerts or Orders or additional directions from local officials ✔️

Learn more: https://gov.bc.ca/evacuee-guidance

08/21/2026

Vaccines help protect older adults from serious illness. But protection needs to be accessible.

This National Immunization Awareness Month, OSA is calling for public coverage of the shingles vaccine for B.C. seniors so cost isn’t a barrier to prevention.

Learn more: https://immunize.ca/

08/20/2026

Lower income seniors renting in the private market may be eligible for a rent supplement through SAFER.

08/19/2026

On World Humanitarian Day, we recognize the people who respond to crises and support communities through some of their most difficult times.

Older adults can face particular challenges during emergencies, from evacuation and access to medications and health care, to isolation, mobility challenges and disruption to essential supports.

Emergency response must consider the needs of people of all ages. Building stronger, more inclusive emergency systems helps ensure older adults are not left behind.

08/19/2026

Emergencies can happen quickly! The City of Nanaimo is creating a Seniors Emergency preparedness Information Guide to help older adults stay safe, informed and connected during community-wide emergencies such as power outages, severe weather, wildfires and evacuations.

Older adults, caregivers, family members, service providers and organizations that support seniors can share their ideas and experiences. Your feedback will help shape a guide that is practical, easy to use and useful in an emergency.

Take the survey online at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/SeniorsSurvey. Paper copies will be available soon at Beban Park Social Centre, Bowen Park Social Centre, Nanaimo Ice Centre, Oliver Woods and the Service and Resource Centre.

08/18/2026

If you’re looking for a family doctor or nurse practitioner, use the Health Connect Registry to help you.

Registration takes less than five minutes.

Visit: healthlinkbc.ca/health-connect-registry