NDP unveils plan for P.E.I. Seniors' Independence Program

Mike Redmond says the addition of a basic housekeeping and grounds maintenance service to the current long-term home care program would allow many more seniors to remain in their homes indefinitely.

He says the new P.E.I. Seniors' Independence Program would be modelled after the Veterans' Independence Program delivered by Veterans Affairs Canada.

"About nine out of 10 seniors want to stay in their home as long as they can, so we see the need for that. We also see a way of [achieving] significant cost savings to the taxpayer by keeping seniors in their home, keeping seniors in their community and also a way to create jobs as an economic driver. So, it's a win-win all round," said Redmond.

Redmond says it would also help make more long-term care beds available.