Canada's Aging Population

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A report prepared by Health Canada in collaboration with the Interdepartmental Committee on Aging and Seniors Issues.

Canada's Aging Population was prepared for the Second World Assembly on Ageing, a conference organized by the UN, held from April 8 to 12, 2002. This document is intended to provide an overview of population aging in Canada and of the major issues that must be addressed as both the number and the proportion of seniors increase in Canadian society. It sets the stage for Canada's participation in the event.

At the start of this new century, Canada faces significant aging of its population as the proportion of seniors increases more rapidly than all other age groups. In 2001, one Canadian in eight was aged 65 years or over. By 2026, one Canadian in five will have reached age 65. Population aging is a complex issue that concerns not only the well-being of today's older Canadians but also broader areas and sectors affecting the total population, such as health, labour markets and public finances.

The first section of the document presents statistical information on seniors in Canada, outlining the characteristics and diversity of Canada's older population, while the second section describes a number of the key steps being taken by the Canadian federal government in collaboration with partners to address important aging issues.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Seniors in Canada - At a Glance

• Who Are Canada's Seniors?
• The Health of Older Canadians
• Financial Security in Later Life
• The Participation of Older Canadians in Society
• Independence and Quality of Life

Federal Action on Aging

• The Federal Context
• Income and Labour Force Issues
• Health
• Supports to Independence and Quality of Life
• Aboriginal Seniors
• Veterans

Conclusion

Sources

Appendix 1: Sources for the Charts

Appendix 2: Federal Resources on Aging and Seniors

© Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, 2008

 

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