survey-post

According to a recent ORCA survey conducted by Angus Reid, almost all Canadians (96%) agree that there are social benefits for seniors living in a retirement home. The survey also found that Canadians think social isolation is a key concern when it comes to our aging population.

What else do Canadians think?

  • Nearly nine in 10 Canadians do not want to be socially isolated in their later years.
  • 76% of Canadians over the age of 55 worry about being a burden on their family if they can’t look after themselves.
  • Three in four Canadians worry about someone they care about living alone as they grow older.
  • Almost all Canadians (94%) agree that families worry less if their loved one has supports to keep them safe and well
  • Almost all Canadians (97%) living in Ontario agree that support systems would ease their worrying.

Also, 93% of Canadians agree that social isolation is linked with higher health risks for seniors, including a higher likelihood of falls, four-to-five times greater risk of hospitalization, increased risk of developing mental health issues, and 60% increase in risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

The good news is that living in a retirement community can mitigate the risk factors of social isolation for you and your loved ones. ORCA member homes empower seniors to live socially-integrated lifestyles that protect against the advance of social, physical and cognitive decline.

When considering living in a retirement home, or if you’re looking on behalf of a loved one, be sure to choose a licensed home that is an active ORCA member.

Survey Methodology: The survey was completed online (omnibus) through the Angus Reid Forum panel, with a sample size of 1,500 Canadians on Wednesday October 12, 2016. The estimated margin of error for the results is +/- 2.53%.