As we age, our health care needs can change. Knowing where to find reliable information, health advice and community support can help older adults maintain their health, independence and quality of life.

211 Ontario connects people with community programs, social services and government supports. The free, confidential helpline is answered by real people 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with service available in more than 150 languages.

Visit the 211 Ontario website to search for services in your community, including:

• Abuse and assault
• Community programs
• Disability services
• Emergency and crisis services
• Employment and training
• Family services
• Financial assistance
• Food programs
• Francophone services
• Government and legal services
• Health care
• Homelessness services
• Housing
• Indigenous services
• LGBTQ+ services
• Mental health and addictions
• Newcomer services
• Older adult services
• Youth services

Counselling support for men

Men’s Counselling Link is a free, confidential service available through 211 Ontario. It connects men experiencing stress, relationship conflict, harmful behaviours or other personal challenges with professional counselling through Family Service Ontario agencies. Counselling is available virtually or in person.

Get health advice through Health811

Need health advice but aren’t sure where to turn? Health811 connects you with a registered nurse for free, confidential health advice, day or night.

Call 811 (TTY: 711) or use the online chat service to discuss your health concerns and explore your options.

Health811 can also help you:

• Find a primary care provider: Search for a family doctor or nurse practitioner accepting new patients.
• Locate health services: Search for doctors, clinics and other health care services in your area.
• Assess your symptoms: Use the online symptom assessment tool to learn about possible causes, treatment options and next steps.
• Understand health conditions: Find information about medical terms, symptoms and health conditions.

Health811 can help you decide what care you may need and where to find it. It does not replace your regular health care provider. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

Other health care services that can help

Several Ontario programs help older adults access care and support, whether they are living independently, managing health conditions or caring for a loved one.

• Ontario Caregiver Organization (OCO): Provides information, referrals and support for people caring for family members, friends or neighbours. Call the Ontario Caregiver Helpline at 1-833-416-2273 for free, confidential support, available 24 hours a day.
• Home and community care: Offers services such as nursing care, physiotherapy, personal support and assistance with daily activities to help people remain safely at home.
• Long-term care homes: Provide accommodation, 24-hour nursing care and personal support for people who can no longer be adequately supported in their own homes.
• Primary care providers: Family doctors and nurse practitioners provide ongoing care, monitor chronic conditions, coordinate treatment and refer patients to specialists when needed.
• Health Care Connect: Helps eligible Ontario residents who do not have a family doctor or nurse practitioner find a primary care provider accepting new patients.

Knowing where to turn for help can make navigating the health care system easier. Whether you need medical advice, help at home or support for a family caregiver, these services are a good place to start.