Ontario Provincial Programs for Seniors

A guide to government programs, benefits, and services available to seniors in Ontario. Many people are unaware of support they are entitled to — this page helps you find them.

Health Programs

Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB)
Free or low-cost prescription drugs for Ontarians aged 65 and over. You are automatically enrolled when you turn 65 with a valid OHIP card. Dispensing fees are capped at $6.11 per prescription.
How to access: Show your OHIP card at any registered Ontario pharmacy. No registration needed — it is automatic.
Trillium Drug Program
Helps Ontario residents — of any age — who spend a large portion of their household income on prescription drugs. Based on household income and drug costs.
How to access: Apply through ServiceOntario or call 1-800-575-5386.
Assistive Devices Program (ADP)
Helps Ontarians with long-term disabilities pay for equipment such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, walkers, and communication devices. Government covers up to 75% of the cost.
How to access: Ask your doctor for a referral to a registered ADP vendor, or call 1-800-268-6021.
Dental Care for Low-Income Seniors
The Canadian Dental Care Plan provides dental coverage for eligible seniors 65+ who have a family income under $90,000 and do not have private dental insurance.
How to access: Apply through My Service Canada Account or call 1-833-537-4342.

Income Support

Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS)
A monthly payment for low-income seniors in Ontario aged 65+, in addition to Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement. Provides up to $83/month for singles and $166/month for couples.
How to access: Automatic if you receive the federal GIS and have lived in Ontario for the past year. No separate application needed for most seniors.
Old Age Security (OAS)
A monthly federal pension available to most Canadians aged 65 and over, regardless of work history. Service Canada automatically enrols most eligible seniors.
How to access: Service Canada will notify you at age 64 if you will be automatically enrolled. Otherwise, apply at canada.ca or call 1-800-277-9914.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
A monthly, non-taxable benefit for low-income OAS recipients. Must be applied for each year (or tax return triggers automatic renewal if you file taxes).
How to access: File your annual tax return — Service Canada uses it to determine eligibility and renew automatically. Or apply at canada.ca/gis.

Housing Support

Ontario Seniors Care at Home Tax Credit
A refundable tax credit worth up to 25% of eligible medical expenses for seniors aged 70+ to help pay for home care, personal support workers, and medical equipment at home.
How to access: Claim on your Ontario personal income tax return (Line 63052). See ontario.ca/page/seniors-care-at-home-tax-credit for eligible expenses.
Home and Vehicle Modification Program
Financial help for people with disabilities to make their home or vehicle more accessible — ramps, grab bars, wider doorways, and more. Income-tested.
How to access: Contact your local March of Dimes Canada office, which administers this program provincially. Call 1-800-263-3463.

Digital Access Programs

CRTC Affordable Access Program
The CRTC requires large internet providers to offer a low-cost internet plan at $20/month for households that qualify, including seniors with low incomes. Maximum speed: 25 Mbps.
How to access: Contact Bell, Rogers, Telus, or your local provider directly and ask about the Affordable Access Program. Have proof of income ready.
Digital Literacy Programs at Public Libraries
Ontario public libraries offer free drop-in computer help, tablet training, and one-on-one technology assistance for seniors. Your local library card gives you free internet access, e-books, and more.
How to access: Contact your local public library. In St. Thomas: St. Thomas Public Library at (519) 631-6050.
Need help finding the right program?
211 Ontario connects you to local social services, health programs, and community support. Call 2-1-1 (free) or visit 211ontario.ca.
See Support Directory →