Navigating Home Care in Alberta: A Family Guide to Client-Directed Home Care

Finding the right home care in Alberta can feel overwhelming — especially when you are already managing a loved one's needs. This guide explains how Alberta Home Care works, what Client-Directed Home Care (CDHC) means for your family, and how to take the first step toward getting the support you deserve.

Not sure where to start? Book a free consultation and we will help you understand your care options.

When Families Usually Start Looking for Home Care

Most families do not plan for home care in advance — they start looking when something changes. You may recognize one of these situations: a parent is struggling with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or preparing meals; a loved one is returning home from hospital and needs extra support during recovery; family caregiving has become physically or emotionally overwhelming; safety concerns are increasing at home — falls, missed medications, or wandering; or a senior wants to remain independent but needs some help to do so safely.

If any of these sound familiar, you are not alone — and there is funded support available in Alberta. You do not have to figure it out on your own.

What Is Alberta Home Care?

Alberta Home Care is publicly funded support that helps Albertans live safely and independently in their own homes. It is available to seniors, adults with disabilities, and individuals recovering from illness or surgery. The goal is to help people remain at home — rather than moving to a facility — for as long as it is safe and appropriate to do so.

Home care in Alberta was previously administered by Alberta Health Services (AHS). As of 2025, these programs now fall under Assisted Living Alberta (ALA) — a new provincial agency. The programs themselves, including funding and eligibility, remain in place.

What Services Can Home Care Include?

Depending on your assessed needs, Alberta Home Care can include a wide range of supports to help with daily life at home.

Personal care — assistance with bathing, grooming, and hygiene. Dressing assistance — help getting dressed and undressed safely. Medication reminders — ensuring medications are taken correctly and on time. Meal preparation — planning and preparing nutritious meals at home. Light housekeeping — keeping the home clean, safe, and organized. Mobility support — assistance with moving around the home safely. Respite support — temporary relief for family caregivers. Companionship — social engagement and emotional support. Dementia support — specialized care for individuals living with dementia or cognitive decline.

The specific services you receive are determined through a home care assessment. Not every service is available to every person — eligibility is based on individual need.

Understanding Client-Directed Home Care (CDHC)

Client-Directed Home Care (CDHC) is one of the most important — and most misunderstood — programs in Alberta's home care system. Here is what families need to know.

ALA does not simply assign one provider to your family. Under CDHC, eligible Albertans may have options regarding which registered provider delivers their care. Funding approval is determined through an independent assessment by an ALA case manager — not by the provider. Providers do not approve funding, set hours, or determine eligibility. Once approved, you direct your funded hours to the registered provider of your choice.

This means you have a say in who comes into your home — which matters enormously when it comes to trust, comfort, and cultural fit.

Who Qualifies for Home Care Funding in Alberta?

To access funded home care in Alberta, you generally need to be an Alberta resident with a valid provincial health care card, have a medical or functional need that requires home care support, and be assessed by an ALA case manager as eligible for home care services. There is no income test for CDHC — eligibility is based on need, not finances. Seniors, adults with disabilities, and individuals recovering from illness or surgery may all qualify.

How to Request a Home Care Assessment in Alberta

Step 1 — Call Health Link at 811. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, staffed by registered nurses. You can request a home care referral or ask about your options at any time.

Step 2 — Ask your doctor or hospital discharge planner. They can submit a referral to ALA on your behalf. This is often the fastest route if your loved one is already in hospital.

Step 3 — ALA Assessment. A case manager will visit your home to assess your needs and determine your eligibility and approved hours of care.

Step 4 — Choose your provider. Under CDHC, you direct your approved hours to the registered provider of your choice. BalaiCare is a registered, nurse-owned CDHC provider serving Edmonton and surrounding areas.

Step 5 — Care begins. ALA pays your provider directly for approved hours. There is no cost to you for funded hours of care.

How BalaiCare Supports Alberta Families

BalaiCare is a nurse-owned, registered home care provider serving families across Edmonton and Alberta. We support families through Home Care, Respite Care, Disability Support, and Supported Living services.

We help families understand their options, navigate available supports, and develop personalized care plans that meet their unique needs. Whether you are accessing funded care for the first time or looking for a provider who truly fits your family, our team is here to walk you through every step — no jargon, no pressure.

Funding eligibility is determined by the applicable funding organization. BalaiCare can help you understand the process and connect you with the right resources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Care in Alberta

What is Client-Directed Home Care?

Client-Directed Home Care (CDHC) is an Alberta program that allows eligible Albertans to choose their own registered home care provider, rather than being assigned one. Funding is approved through an ALA assessment, and you direct those hours to the provider of your choice.

Who qualifies for Home Care in Alberta?

Alberta residents with a valid health care card who have a medical or functional need may qualify. This includes seniors, adults with disabilities, and individuals recovering from illness or surgery. Eligibility is based on need, not income.

How do I request a Home Care Assessment?

Call Health Link at 811 to request a referral, or ask your doctor or hospital discharge planner to submit one on your behalf. An ALA case manager will then contact you to arrange an in-home assessment.

Can I choose my own home care provider?

Yes — under the CDHC program, eligible Albertans can choose their own registered provider. BalaiCare is a registered CDHC provider in Edmonton. Your case manager can confirm which providers are available in your area.

Does Home Care cost money?

Funded home care hours through ALA are provided at no cost to you. ALA pays the provider directly for approved hours. If you require more hours than your assessment approves, private top-up options may be available.

How long does approval take?

Timelines vary depending on your situation and the urgency of need. Hospital discharge referrals are typically prioritized. For non-urgent requests, the assessment process can take a few weeks. Calling 811 early is always recommended.

What if my needs change over time?

Your care plan can be reassessed at any time if your needs change. Contact your ALA case manager to request a reassessment. BalaiCare can also help you navigate this process if your current plan no longer meets your needs.