Optima Living Addresses Seniors Housing Crisis in B.C.

As B.C.'s senior population continues to grow, the demand for housing and care that meets their specific needs has reached a critical point. Optima Living, a leader in the seniors housing sector, is actively working with government bodies, health authorities, and industry partners to address this pressing challenge.

In a recent Business in Vancouver article, Optima’s Co-founder and Principal Karim Kassam highlighted the significant impact of the housing crisis on seniors and the unique challenges the sector faces. “Given where we live in Canada, the housing crisis also affects seniors in the same way, if not worse, given their challenges from an income standpoint,” he said. “We have additional issues in our sector such as the regulatory environment that we have to subscribe to. For us, that’s what really impacts our ability to speed and scale our expansion. We want to do more, but we need government support to help us get there.”

Karim also emphasized the looming challenges if the housing crunch is not addressed urgently. “We know we are going to have full occupancy,” he said. “The demand is so high that it’s going to cause an exceptional strain on the housing system, health-care system and acute system. If we don’t address this housing crunch now, we are in for some very difficult times ahead.”

With 39 assets and 4,500 beds across Western Canada, Optima Living is committed to expanding its range of care solutions to meet the increasing demand. The company’s facilities offer a mix of private- and publicly-funded options, ensuring that seniors have access to the care they need, regardless of their financial situation.

As Optima Living continues to lead the way in providing quality care across the full continuum—from independent living to long-term care—we remain dedicated to creating safe, supportive homes where seniors can thrive.

Read the full article: Senior housing shortage looms as B.C.’s population ages - Business in Vancouver (biv.com)