Based on coverage from Insauga, Medicine Hat News, and Lethbridge News Now.
A recent survey by the National Institute on Aging reveals a decline in optimism about aging among Canadians, largely due to financial insecurity and loneliness. Conducted in June and July, the survey gathered insights from over 6,000 adults aged 50 and older. The findings, part of the fourth annual report titled Perspectives on Growing Older in Canada, show a notable drop in positive feelings about aging—from 62 per cent in 2024 to 57 per cent this year.
Financial Insecurity and Retirement Concerns
Financial insecurity is a significant concern for many older Canadians. The survey indicates that 43 per cent of respondents feel they cannot afford to retire as planned, up from 38 per cent in 2024. Talia Bronstein, director of policy at the National Institute on Aging, highlights that financial challenges are a recurring theme among older adults, affecting their ability to retire comfortably. Laura Beamish from Fort St. John, B.C., echoes this sentiment, noting that rising living costs make retirement seem increasingly out of reach.
Loneliness and Social Isolation Persist
Loneliness and social isolation remain prevalent issues, with 43 per cent of respondents at risk of isolation and 59 per cent experiencing loneliness. These figures have remained unchanged over the past four years. Dr. Jillian Alston, a Toronto geriatrician, points out the interconnectedness of financial insecurity and social isolation, suggesting that financial struggles can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and hinder access to healthcare.
Challenges for Younger Seniors
The survey reveals that Canadians aged 50 to 64 are particularly vulnerable to social isolation, with one in four reporting high levels of loneliness. This age group faces overlapping pressures, including employment, caregiving responsibilities, and emerging health issues. Beamish, who supports her mother while managing her own health challenges, describes the uncertainty and economic concerns that contribute to her sense of isolation.
Improvements and Gaps in Primary Care Access
Access to primary care has seen some improvement, with 68 per cent of older adults reporting they have a primary care doctor, up from 60 per cent in 2024. However, this still leaves nearly a third without consistent access to healthcare. Elaine Storey from Fraser Lake, B.C., shares her experience of relying on a rotating roster of healthcare providers, which complicates her ability to receive continuous care. Storey has taken proactive steps by founding Autumn Services, a support society offering transportation and social activities for seniors.
The survey underscores the complex challenges faced by older Canadians, with financial insecurity, loneliness, and healthcare access forming a tangled web of issues. As these pressures continue to mount, the need for comprehensive support and solutions becomes increasingly urgent.
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