Apr 24th, 2026

Improving Safety and Independence for Seniors in OCH Buildings  

“Most of my neighbours are seniors, and the new handrails have made it much easier for us to get around,” said Raymonde a resident at Russell Road. “I feel more confident moving through the building, and I can do more on my own without needing to ask for help. These improvements truly enhance our daily lives and help us stay independent, while still feeling part of a community we enjoy living in.” 

Raymonde is one of 580 OCH tenants who have already benefitted from more than $500,000 in combined funding from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the City of Ottawa to support adding handrails in seniors’ buildings. The handrails are being installed in hallways, entrances, and common spaces to help seniors and people with disabilities live safely and independently and help reduce the risk of trips and falls. 

Phase 1 – Completed in 2025 

Handrails were installed in seven seniors’ buildings. 

Buildings upgraded in Phase 1: 

• 1909 Russell Road  

• 205 Gladstone Avenue  

• 1650–1690 Walkley Road (3 buildings) 

• 280 Montfort Avenue  

Phase 2 – happening now 

Phase 2 is happening now. Seven more seniors’ buildings will get handrails in hallways, entrances, and shared spaces. Nearly 1,000 tenants will benefit.  

Phase 2 Buildings: 

• McEwen Terrace  

• Charlotte  

• Wellington Towers  

• Viewmount (3 buildings)  

• 445 Richmond (Golden Manor)  

Making a Difference for Residents 

 
A Long-Term Plan 

This work is part of OCH’s plan to bring these improvements to all 27 seniors’ buildings. By working with our partners, OCH helps seniors live safely and with dignity. We turned funding into real changes that tenants can see and use every day.