A Rapidly Expanding Waitlist
British Columbia is facing a deepening long-term care crisis. More than 7,200 seniors now wait for placement in publicly funded care homes. That marks a 200 per cent increase since 2016.
In 2016, about 2,381 people waited for beds. By late 2025, that number rose to 7,212. The B.C. Seniors Advocate calls the situation an urgent crisis.
The average wait time now reaches nearly 10 months. In 2016, seniors waited about five months. Today, the provincial average stands at roughly 290 days.
Why Demand Is Outpacing Supply
Experts point to a rapidly aging population. British Columbia’s senior population continues to grow at record speed. However, the number of care beds has not kept pace.
The Advocate reports an erosion of available beds across the province. Some older facilities have closed or reduced capacity. New construction has failed to meet rising demand.
The Sunshine Coast has emerged as a regional hotspot. Families there face some of the longest waits in the province.
Families Carry the Burden
The shortage forces many families to provide care at home. Most relatives lack formal training in long-term care. Many struggle with emotional, physical, and financial pressure.
The Seniors Advocate warns that responsibility has shifted from government to families. This shift creates stress and health risks for caregivers. Seniors often wait in hospitals or remain at home without proper support.
Government Response and Gaps
The province has invested more than $3.5 billion in health and care services over five years. However, the Advocate argues funding has not matched demand.
British Columbia plans to build 5,000 new care beds by 2031. Critics say the province will need 16,000 additional beds by 2036. The gap remains significant.
Vancouver Coastal Health has begun rolling out smaller care home models. Officials say these homes offer more personalized care and faster expansion.
The Road Ahead
The Seniors Advocate has asked the government for a detailed action plan. The deadline for that plan is October 1, 2025.
Without urgent action, waitlists will continue to grow. Thousands of B.C. families remain in limbo as the province confronts a mounting long-term care emergency.
This article is shared on behalf of Annie Kaps, and the views, experiences, and opinions expressed herein are solely her own. The content has been provided directly by the author and is published for awareness and public interest purposes.
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