Survey finds aging Canadians face financial insecurity, healthcare barriers, and social isolation
As Canada’s population ages, many older adults are grappling with financial insecurity, social isolation, and barriers to healthcare, according to the latest findings from the National Institute on Aging (NIA).
The 2024 Ageing in Canada Survey, conducted in partnership with the Environics Institute for Survey Research, provides a snapshot of the realities faced by Canadians aged 50 and older.
With responses from nearly 6,000 individuals, the survey highlights economic concerns, access to essential services, and the effects of aging-related social dynamics. The results show that many older adults lack adequate retirement savings, experience limited access to healthcare, and struggle to maintain strong social connections.
Natalie Iciaszczyk, NIA’s program manager of survey research and lead author of the report, said that the survey offers data-driven insights into the experiences of older Canadians.
"These findings not only highlight the challenges older adults face but also present an opportunity to create meaningful change,” said Iciaszczyk.
Financial Security: A Looming Concern
Financial security emerges as a primary concern. Among working Canadians over 50, 33% believe they will retire as planned, while 25% have saved $5,000 or less for retirement.
The survey introduces the Material Deprivation Index (MDI), revealing that 22% of Canadians aged 50 and older live in conditions comparable to poverty, a figure that rises to 14% for those 65 and older, exceeding the national poverty rate.
While a majority report stable or improving finances compared to last year, 23% still say their income falls short of meeting their needs, both now and in the future. This financial strain disproportionately affects those aged 50 to 64, individuals without workplace pensions, and those in poor or fair health.
Social Well-being: The Importance of Connection
Beyond finances, social well-being is a significant factor. While 32% of respondents report strong social networks, 36% describe theirs as weak.
Social isolation is often linked to poor health and financial difficulties. Participation in social and recreational activities varies widely: 39% engage weekly, 20% monthly, and 23% rarely or never, often citing financial barriers. Although only 9% report direct experiences of age discrimination in the past year, a substantial 68% regularly encounter ageist remarks or attitudes, including jokes about aging.
Healthcare Access: Navigating the System
Access to healthcare remains a persistent issue. Among those needing medical care in 2024, 64% accessed services most or all of the time.
Home care access is particularly challenging, with only 48% of those requiring it receiving the necessary services most of the time.
The survey also explored preferences for aging in place, revealing that 80% of respondents wish to remain in their own homes as long as possible, while only 3% prefer long-term care facilities.
Environics Institute senior associate Keith Neuman said the research provides a clearer picture of how aging is experienced in Canada and highlights differences based on personal circumstances.
“It provides valuable evidence to help us move beyond casual stereotypes about what it is like to be an older person in our society today,” said Neuman.
The NIA urges governments, healthcare providers, and community organizations to use the survey’s insights to guide policies aimed at improving conditions for older Canadians. The institute states that the data underscores the need for evidence-based approaches to financial security, healthcare access, and reducing age-related stigma.
Alyssa Brierley, NIA's executive director, said the survey points to systemic issues affecting older adults. She emphasized the need for targeted policy measures to ensure financial stability, access to healthcare, and greater inclusion for Canada’s aging population.
As policymakers and organizations evaluate these findings, what steps should be taken to address the challenges faced by older Canadians? Share your thoughts in the comments.
