On the whole, older Canadians have never been healthier, or better off financially. But if we look deeper, there are significant factors that cause concern...
For aging Canadians, the organizations that support them, and the family and friends who care for them, there is The Grand Parade. The Grand Parade.
Canada's census data shows some significant trends in our aging population. You can find more details here. For example:
Seniors still outnumber children in Canada
Statistics Canada's 2021 census confirmed this continuing trend, with 7.6 million Canadian seniors 65 and older, compared to 5.6 million Canadians 14 and under.
There are more older women than older men, but it's trending down
There are 17 percent more women than men aged 65 or older. And, in the 85+ category, the stats used to reflect the Beach Boys’ famous line, “two girls for every boy.” But that number has trended toward parity, and is now sits at 1.7 women for every man.
If you think Canada is old...
Compared to other countries like the United States, Britain, France, Italy, Germany, and Japan, Canada's seniors make up a lower share of the population than every country but the USA.
Canadian Seniors: By the Numbers
Sourced from Canadian Government census reports:
19% | Percentage of population aged 65 plus |
861,000 | Canadians aged 85 or older |
85+ | This age group has doubled in size in the last 20 years |
238,000 | Number of Canadian of 85-year-olds living in collective dwellings such as nursing homes, long-term care, and seniors residences |
9,500 | Number of Canadians over the age of 100 |
1.7 to 1 | Ratio of women to men aged 85 and older |