Seniors Will Suffer

25% rent gouge to seniors “unacceptable:” Mason
NDP learns government has approved assisted living fee hike of $300 a month

EDMONTON – “A 25% rent increase for seniors is unacceptable and unaffordable,” NDP leader Brian Mason said today, following confirmation that rental rates at assisted living facilities in Edmonton are set to jump by more than $300 per month.

“This is a direct result of the 3% funding cut the government handed down to assisted living facilities in August,” Mason added.

Following reports that rent at a seniors’ residence in west Edmonton will rise from $1,312 to $1,650, the NDP has learned the rate hike will affect assisted living facilities across the entire city.

Mason warned that similar increases will likely follow in Calgary and across Alberta.

“I call on the Stelmach government to show seniors the same compassion they’ve shown their friends in the liquor and horse racing industries, and reinstate proper funding for assisted living facilities,” Mason said.