Why Canada Must Transform Its Long-Term Care System
The long-term care (LTC) system in Canada faces increasing pressure from a rapidly aging population and a workforce in crisis. More compassionate and sustainable care models are urgently needed.
Canadians are living longer than ever, raising critical questions about who will provide care and under what conditions when individuals can no longer care for themselves. The 2021 census reveals that the populations aged 85 and over, as well as those 100 and over, are growing much faster than other age groups.
Longer lifespans often mean managing multiple chronic and complex health conditions such as hypertension, osteoarthritis, heart disease, osteoporosis, chronic pulmonary disease, diabetes, cancer, and dementia. Although most seniors will "age in place" in their own homes and maintain relatively good health, about 8%, or approximately 528,000 people, will need the specialized care offered by LTC or assisted living facilities.
This need is greater for individuals facing progressive illnesses, disabilities, or injuries, especially when home care and family support are insufficient.
"The longer we live, the more likely we are to experience chronic, multiple and complex health conditions like hypertension, osteoarthritis, heart disease, osteoporosis, chronic pulmonary disease, diabetes, cancer and dementia."
At the same time Canada’s demand for LTC increases, the sector is losing workers to retirement or other employment options. This workforce crisis stems from chronic issues including inadequate funding and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Canada is simultaneously witnessing an exodus of LTC workers through retirement or by seeking employment elsewhere due to chronic and sustained sector challenges, including lack of funding and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic."
Addressing these challenges requires urgent reform to ensure the LTC system can sustainably meet the growing and complex care needs of Canada’s aging population.
Author's summary: Canada's long-term care system must urgently adopt more humane and sustainable models to meet the escalating needs of an aging population amid workforce shortages and systemic challenges.