Pre-Budget Consultations in Advance of the Upcoming 2025 Federal Budget

Canada is currently undergoing a significant demographic transition. One in five people in Canada are aged 65 years and older. By the mid-2030s, that number will grow to one in four, making Canada a “super-aged nation.” 

The National Institute on Ageing (NIA) is Canada’s leading public policy think tank on ageing. We work to improve the lives of older adults and the systems that support them by convening stakeholders, conducting research, advancing policy solutions and practice innovations, sharing information, and shifting attitudes. Our vision is a Canada where older adults feel valued, included, supported, and better prepared to age with confidence.

Each year, we conduct a survey of people aged 50 years and over living in Canada. Our 2024 survey reveals:

  • Social isolation and loneliness are taking a toll: 41% of older adults in Canada are at risk of social isolation and 58% have experienced loneliness, which can increase the risk of mood disorders, dementia, cardiovascular disease, malnutrition, falls and premature mortality.

  • Older adults are struggling to make ends meet: According to a material deprivation threshold of two items or more, 22% of older adults have a poverty-level standard of living. Only one-third (34%) of older adults currently working say they can afford to retire at their desired time.

  • Older adults are facing significant health challenges: 88% reported needing health care services and treatments, yet 35% were unable to access the health care services they needed, when they needed them. 51% were also unable to access home care services when they needed them. 

  • Ageism is widespread in Canada: 29% of older adults in Canada reported experiencing three or more forms of everyday discrimination because of their age. When asked about everyday experiences of ageism that number jumps to 68%.

These recommendations reflect practical, people-centred solutions to ensure that older Canadians can age with greater health, financial security and respect.

National Institute on Ageing