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VON, in partnership with the Nova Scotia Government, announced today a new pilot program, CAPABLE (Community Aging in Place, Advancing Better Living for Elders), designed to help seniors stay safe and independent in their own homes longer. It is the first of its kind in Canada.

CAPABLE pairs a senior with a registered nurse, an occupational therapist, and a handyperson who works with them to identify needs in their daily activities and homes that will help them age in place.

The CAPABLE team will work one-on-one with the client to set specific goals and make modifications within their home to make day-to-day life more safe, improve their independence and overall well-being. Goals and modifications could include: installing grab bars, raising toilet seats, removing carpets, securing shelves, reviewing medications, improving lighting, repairing steps, recommending exercises to improve strength and mobility, and more.

CAPABLE is a proven, evidence-based program developed by Johns Hopkins School of Nursing in Baltimore.

"The majority of Nova Scotians want to age at home, and innovative programs like CAPABLE help our older family members live safety at home, in the communities they love. VON has been providing care and programs in home and communities across Nova Scotia for many years and this is a natural fit for our work," said Jeff Densmore, Regional Executive Director, Central and Western Zones, VON Nova Scotia.

The program will serve a total of 300 clients across the province over the next few months. Applications are now open for seniors in the communities of Cherry Brook, Lake Loon, North Preston, East Preston and surrounding area. Applications for seniors in Kings County and on the Halifax peninsula will open early in 2024.

To learn more about CAPABLE and the eligibility criteria or to apply, click here.

Photo credit: Nova Scotia Government