According to a new HelpAge International report, Canada is one of the finest countries to grow old in. The survey polled 790 million individuals from 96 countries, 91% of them were over the age of 60, and their replies placed Canada fourth best for senior quality of life. This is fantastic news for seniors choosing assisted living or retirement residences in Canada, and it may inspire us as a country to figure out how to go even further up the list.
Elements that contribute to a better standard of living
Several factors contributed to Canada's excellent ranking on the scale of senior quality of life. We were seventh in terms of financial security, fourth in terms of health, eighth in terms of job and educational capacity, and ninth in terms of an enabling environment. Each of these elements, in general, can help individuals live happier, more productive lives. For starters, people's stress levels drop dramatically when they are financially secure. Personal or household finances are a key source of concern for older people, according to Sun Life Financial. Financial difficulties make it difficult to meet even the most necessities; however, Canada ranks high on the list of countries with consistent income.
Being in good health is also essential for a decent quality of life. People who are in good health may have busy social lives and be more productive, which makes them happy. Similarly, when people have a choice of employment and educational options, they are more satisfied with their contributions to society, which improves their quality of life. When the environment fosters a healthy lifestyle, which Canadians surveyed believe is the case in our nation, the same good impacts are seen.
How can we keep elders happy and healthy in the future?
Chairperson of HelpAge Canada, Jack Panozzo, is hopeful about the survey's results but cautions that there is still space for improvement.
"While Canada's ranking as the fourth best country for seniors' well-being is encouraging, we cannot afford to be complacent," Panozzo added. The aging population of our country is a significant issue for all of us as individuals, corporations, institutions, and governments.
According to previous research from the Canadian Medical Association, Canada's aging population must take extra attention while planning for retirement to maintain a good quality of life. According to the survey, over 60% of caregivers are now caring for elderly loved ones, causing them to experience increased stress. As a result, it may be good for both seniors and their careers to consider independent living in their retirement plans.