Toronto, ON, December 3, 2024. Canada’s population is rapidly aging, with 22.7 per cent of Canadians projected to be 65 or older by 2040. This demographic shift will significantly impact healthcare, the labour market, public services, and more – necessitating a multifaceted policy response.

A new report from the CSA Public Policy Centre, Aging Canada 2040: Policy Implications of Demographic Change, underscores the urgent need to re-evaluate how and where we age. The report breaks down six comprehensive policy recommendations aimed to foster a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future for aging in Canada.

“Canada’s aging population will have far-reaching effects on every aspect of our society,” said Sunil Johal, Vice President of Public Policy at CSA Group. “This report is a call to action for policymakers to rethink our approach to aging, for example, by promoting age-friendly communities, addressing the unique challenges posed by climate change and leveraging the benefits of new technological advancements.”

As governments work to build homes to address core housing needs, combined with a growing preference for aging-in-place, the need for accessible housing and community support is paramount. Johal emphasizes, “Creating age-friendly communities that support independence and reduce social isolation are essential. We need to ensure that homes are designed for all abilities and that older adults receive the necessary financial aid for home modifications and homecare services.”

The report also points out that climate change presents unique challenges for older Canadians. Enhanced climate-resilient infrastructure and emergency preparedness, such as community cooling spaces during heat waves, will be necessary for protecting vulnerable adults.
While our aging population presents challenges for policymakers, it also fosters opportunities for technological innovation, new consumer markets, and intergenerational solidarity. Policymakers have an opportunity to harness the skills and experiences of older adults to drive societal and economic growth through inclusive policies and strategic investments.

To address challenges presented by Canada’s aging population, the report emphasizes that a whole-of-government approach inclusive of all levels of government and cross-departmental collaboration is essential. The CSA Public Policy Centre is a resource for Canadian government and policy leaders looking for timely, data-driven policy perspectives on current and emerging issues – including challenges faced by our rapidly aging population. As Sunil Johal states, “We are committed to providing recommendations to support the development of policies that will create a better future for all Canadians.”

CSA Group, a global leader in standards development, continues to support aging Canadians through its national standards related to accessibility, climate resiliency, and more. Government leaders should consider referencing these standards in legislation to address the needs of Canada’s aging population effectively.

To learn more and download Aging Canada 2040: Policy Implications of Demographic Change, visit CSA Group’s website. 

About CSA Group

CSA Group is a global organization dedicated to safety, social good and sustainability. We are a leader in North American standards development and in product testing, inspection and certification around the world. Our mandate is to hold the future to a higher standard.

Media May Contact
Claire Brassard
CSA Group
[email protected]