Vancouver Coastal Health is moving forward with plans to rebuild West Vancouver’s Capilano Care Centre, which has been closed since 2022. The health authority aims to create a new long-term care home that addresses the growing needs of the region’s senior population.
The previous facility had 205 beds, and current project plans call for a minimum of 210. Experts warn this is too small. B.C.’s Seniors Advocate has said the province will require 16,000 additional beds over the next ten years to prevent a crisis in senior care. Maximizing the property’s potential is now essential. Vancouver Coastal Health has already purchased the site at market value. The focus should be on creating a facility that can safely and comfortably house as many residents as possible. Collaboration between the health authority, provincial government, and municipality will be key to making the property efficient and accessible.
Population growth and an aging demographic are placing increasing pressure on long-term care. Officials say small expansions alone will not meet demand. Residents deserve safe, modern spaces with adequate staff and amenities. A larger facility will ensure the community can meet the needs of seniors for years to come.
Staffing the new facility will be a challenge, as employees often consider commuting distance when choosing their jobs. Including affordable workforce housing on site could attract and retain staff, benefiting both workers and residents by improving care quality and satisfaction.
Current West Vancouver planning guidelines include height and density limits, but many experts argue these should not restrict the long-term care project. Physical constraints exist, yet officials stress that the safety, comfort, and dignity of seniors must take priority. The redevelopment should be ambitious, balancing costs with long-term benefits to serve residents for decades while meeting operational and staffing needs.
Long-term care is an urgent issue in B.C., with more residents reaching ages that require specialized care. The Capilano project represents a significant opportunity to set new standards. Large, modern facilities can offer private rooms, social spaces, and advanced healthcare support, improving seniors’ quality of life. The site’s redevelopment can address current gaps while providing a long-term solution for the community.
Officials emphasize that half measures will not suffice. Seniors deserve facilities that provide dignity, safety, and comfort. By planning for a larger, modern home, West Vancouver can create a long-term care facility that becomes a model for the region. Vancouver Coastal Health’s next steps are expected to include detailed planning, community consultation, and securing construction funding. If executed carefully, the new Capilano Care Centre can meet staffing, capacity, and accessibility challenges effectively.
The facility’s size and design will shape senior care in West Vancouver for decades. By investing in a large, modern home, the community can ensure residents receive the support they need in a safe, welcoming environment.
