Kerby Centre is a non-profit community centre specifically serving older adults in Calgary. It operates from its main facility in downtown Calgary and runs a range of programs covering health, wellness, social connection, financial assistance, and advocacy. If you're navigating any aspect of aging in Calgary, Kerby Centre is consistently the best single starting point.
What Kerby Centre Is
Founded in 1975, Kerby Centre is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of older adults in Calgary and southern Alberta. The organization operates from its main building and manages multiple programs, services, and advocacy initiatives. While it receives some government funding, Kerby also depends on donations and community support.
Location: 1133 7 Ave SW, Calgary
Phone: 403-265-0661
Website: kerbycentre.com
Key Programs and Services
Kerby HeartLink
A free telephone check-in program for isolated seniors. Trained volunteers call regularly to check in, providing social connection and an extra layer of safety for seniors who live alone. Especially valuable for combating isolation, which is a significant health risk for older adults.
Counselling and Support Services
Professional counselling for older adults dealing with mental health concerns, life transitions, grief, loss, and aging-related challenges. Kerby provides a safe space to process difficult emotions and changes — especially valuable during major transitions like moving or losing a spouse.
Tax Assistance Clinic
Free tax clinic for low-income seniors. Typically operates February through April each year. Helps seniors file their taxes correctly and ensures they're accessing all available tax credits and benefits.
Information and Referral Service
This may be Kerby's most valuable service for someone navigating seniors' issues for the first time. Staff can help you understand what services are available, how to access them, and what might be the right fit for your situation. If you don't know where to start, this is the call to make.
Recreation and Fitness Programs
Diverse offerings including exercise classes, social programs, day programs, and recreational activities. Social engagement and physical activity are both protective factors for aging well.
Legal and Financial Information
Basic legal information sessions, power of attorney guidance, estate planning information evenings, and financial literacy programs. Not legal advice, but practical information to help you understand important decisions.
Kerby News
A community newsletter keeping seniors informed about programs, services, local issues, and events in the seniors' community.
Kerby Care — Long-Term Care
In addition to community-based programs, Kerby operates Kerby Care Centre, a long-term care facility adjacent to the main building. It provides 24-hour nursing care for seniors who require facility-level care. Kerby Care is publicly funded through Alberta Health Services, not a private facility.
Important Note
Kerby Centre is not affiliated with Downsize Calgary. This page exists to direct Calgary seniors and families to a trusted, established resource. Program details and availability are accurate at time of writing, but services and schedules change. Always check kerbycentre.com directly for current information.
Why This Page Exists
Families navigating a senior transition in Calgary often don't know where to start. The decision space is large: housing options, care services, government benefits, emotional support, legal questions. It's overwhelming.
Kerby Centre is consistently the best single starting point. Whether you need information, a referral, support for a difficult transition, or just someone to talk to, Kerby has been doing this work for decades. Call them first.
Getting Started
Start here: Call Kerby's Information and Referral Service at 403-265-0661 or visit kerbycentre.com. Describe your situation briefly. They'll point you toward the right resources.
If you're also navigating a housing decision — considering a move, evaluating 55+ buildings, or deciding when it's time to sell the family home — that's where Kenton can help complement what Kerby provides.