Resident & Family Councils

Continuing Care

Alberta Continuing Care Act Effective April 1, 2024

References to continuing care (including home care, designated supportive living, long term care and hospice) may not reflect the updated language or terms found in the new Alberta Continuing Care Act effective April 1, 2024. Refer to the Continuing Care Glossary for definitions.

Alberta Health established Bill 22 - The Resident and Family Councils Act to ensure that residents and their families have the right to establish self-governing councils and are supported to do so by the site operator.

The purpose of Resident and Family Council is to:

  • provide a forum for patients and families to discuss ways of maintaining and enhancing quality of life in the residential facility;
  • discuss and present matters relating to the residence, including requests, concerns or proposed solutions;
  • present opportunities for residents and families to participate in quality improvement projects; and
  • form a network of support and encouragement.

In response to the Act, Alberta Health Services developed the Resident and Family Councils Procedure.  In the Resources section, we have included resources to support you with understanding the act, procedure and forming a council.