The government of New Brunswick has announced a significant policy change aimed at making home care services more accessible to residents. Effective December 19, 2025, the province is increasing the income threshold that determines eligibility for publicly funded home care support.
Expanding Access to Essential Care
This adjustment means that individuals and families with higher incomes than previously allowed can now qualify for assistance. The change is designed to help more seniors and people with disabilities or chronic health conditions receive the care they need in their own homes, rather than in institutional settings. The announcement was made public by the provincial government, highlighting a commitment to supporting aging in place.
Details of the Policy Shift
While the exact new income figures were not detailed in the initial brief, the core fact remains: the financial bar to qualify for home care services has been raised. This policy shift acknowledges the rising cost of living and aims to prevent families from being forced to deplete their savings entirely before becoming eligible for government aid. Home care services can include a range of supports such as:
- Personal care (bathing, dressing)
- Nursing and health monitoring
- Meal preparation
- Homemaking services
Implications for New Brunswick Residents
This move is expected to have a direct positive impact on hundreds of households across New Brunswick. By easing the financial eligibility rules, the province is reducing a barrier that often forces difficult choices between paying for private care or moving a loved one into a long-term care facility prematurely. The change aligns with broader trends in Canadian healthcare that prioritize community-based care, which is often preferred by individuals and can be more cost-effective for the public system. The announcement, noted amidst a series of other regional news items, stands out as a concrete policy action with immediate relevance for many families in the province.
Residents who previously applied for home care and were denied due to income, or those who have deferred applying, are encouraged to contact the New Brunswick Department of Social Development or relevant health authority to reassess their eligibility under the new threshold.
