Helpful Resources
FACT:
As of the 2022 census there are 27.0% Canadians over the age of 15, and 40.4% over the age of 65 living with disabilities.
(Source)
Why list here? Can’t I just ‘google’ it?
You absolutely can! However, there are a number of companies out there that advertise their specialization. And they might not be what you need or want. I’ve collected this information here as I have personally found it valuable.
Who are these companies anyway?
I’ve included companies that I have either connected directly with, learned from or researched as being reliable supports.
It’s so short. There has to be more, right?
Yep, it’s short, for now. I’m building my connections and networking with other like minded people.
Why does this matter so much to you?
Simple.
When my husband became disabled, I was left with little to no support to help him. It was determined by many that I ‘knew enough’ because of the industry I’m in.
A lot of well meaning 'You got this!’ Uh… Nope. No I didn’t. But I’ve learned the hard way.
I’ll never forget the job interview where the hiring firm told me “Disabled people aren’t our clients. We will not design for them.” I don’t have a poker face. The ‘interview’ ended mere minutes later.
So, no. This industry isn’t educated enough on disabilities. We have so very much to learn.
Below are resources I have reviewed and found personally valuable.
This list is not endorsement.
edmonton & area
VAD (Voice of Albertans with Disabilities)
Voice of Albertans with Disabilities (VAD) is dedicated to supporting individuals, organizations, government representatives, schools, business personnel and employers to find solutions that reduce the barriers preventing full participation.
A non-profit that delivers essential programs that nurture friendships.
calgary & area
RAD Renovation by Accessible Housing
The Residential Accessible Design (RAD) Renovations Program proudly leads the way in transforming Calgary and its surrounding areas into a more inclusive and accessible community.
alberta
An Alberta Society for Citizens with Disabilities.
AADL (Alberta Aids to Daily Living)
AADL helps Albertans with a long-term disability, chronic or terminal illness to pay for basic medical equipment and supplies.
RAMP (Residential Accessibility Modification Program)
Low income Albertans with mobility challenges can apply for grants to modify their home
canadian programs (nationwide)
Find disability services and benefits across Canada.
A free community directory for all 13 provinces and territories.
Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF)
The EAF funds projects that make Canadian communities and workplaces more accessible for persons with disabilities. The EAF supports Canada's Disability Inclusion Action Plan, in particular Pillar 3 - Accessible and Inclusive Communities. To learn more, consult the Canada's Disability Inclusion Action Plan, 2022.
March of Dimes Canada provides a wide range of services to people with disabilities throughout the country.
Guide for Home Modifications that are low or no cost.
Other links I found valuable
Home Accessibility Tax Credit (HTAC)
The Home Accessibility Tax Credit (HATC) is a non-refundable tax credit designed to help homeowners cover the costs of renovations that make their home more accessible and safer.
For almost four decades, RHF has removed barriers, changed attitudes, and funded spinal cord injury research and care.
As a RHFAC Professional, I’ve become passionate about good accessible design. Thinking beyond the wheelchair and basic ‘code’ requirements and how the space works as a whole.
Offers a guide to mental health resources in Canada. Including information about disability rights, provincial support systems, and how to access financial aid programs.
More Links
From Adaptive Clothing to Household Items and Tools
Provides reliable adaptive clothing and was one of the first companies to focus solely on people with dressing difficulties.
Has both ‘typical’ adaptive clothing styles and a few trendier options.
IZ Adaptive was born from a mission to address clothing challenges faced by individuals with physical disabilities. IZ Adaptive became part of the Silverts family of companies in 2025.
While the price of adaptive clothing seems high, we realized that pants don’t wear out as often as they used to when walking. So, investing in a basic pant that is comfortable and not ‘medical’ in appearance is an investment.
A leading Canadian e-commerce company offering a wide range of products and services to consumers across Canada. Based in Montreal, QC.
While not specifically a medical supply company, they offer some medical devices and tools. I bought pull out sliding shelving for our kitchen cabinets to make them more accessible for not only my husband from his chair, but for myself when my old back injury flares and I can’t bend down.