This release was issued under a previous government.

A Sherwood Park couple have a new stair lift thanks to a home equity loan under the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair program.

A Sherwood Park couple have a new stair lift thanks to a home equity loan under the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair program.

More than 800 applications have been received since the program’s launch on July 1, 2016, and the government has paid out more than $5 million in loans and about $230,000 in grants. Approximately 10 new applications arrive each day.

“Seniors built this province and they deserve to retire in dignity. Thanks to our government’s SHARP program, Alberta seniors can receive the financial assistance they need to repair or adapt their homes, supporting them to age in the community.”

Lori Sigurdson, Minister of Seniors and Housing

“It’s really given us a new lease on life, so to speak. Instead of moving into a care facility, we can stay in our home—close to our family and friends, for as long as our health allows.”

David and Jill Osborne, recipients of the home-equity loan

The Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Act includes measures to protect consumers, including a provision to review the costs of repair projects to ensure they are fair.

Quick facts

  • The program provides low-interest home equity loans to a maximum of $40,000 per household to seniors with a household income of $75,000 or less. Homeowners must have at least 25 per cent home equity.
  • Low-income seniors who do not qualify under the loan program may be eligible for a grant to help pay for essential home repairs.
  • Most requested repairs or adaptations include:
    • House roof
    • Windows
    • Flooring
    • Furnace
    • Hot water tank
  • Average loan amount:
    • $16,000 (couple)
    • $13,100 (single)