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Health and Canadian Seniors

Overview
Chronic Conditions
Injury
Elder Abuse
Low Literacy Levels
Disability
Mental Health Problems
Canadian Senior Population Statistics
          Immigrant Senior Population Statistics
Seniors, Literacy and Health
Seniors and Disability
Examples of Diseases that Cause Disability
    Stroke
    Foot Problems
    Arthritis
    Seniors and Hearing Issues
    Seniors and Vision Problems
    Diabetes
    Cataracts
    Glaucoma
Seniors and Abuse
    Prevalence
    Warning Signs of Elder Abuse
    Explanations
    Consequences
Seniors and Injury
    Why are seniors more prone to injury?
Seniors and Oral Health
Seniors and Mental Health Issues
Health of Immigrant Seniors
Chinese Seniors in Canada
References, Reports and Websites

Overview

Aging is a natural process. Gradually, organs and systems in the body decrease in efficiency, leading to a greater susceptibility to particular conditions and certain physical characteristics. The rate and degree in which each organ and body system is impacted throughout the aging process is unique in every individual.  Aging involves changes in the following organs and systems (Mayo Clinic, 2004):

  • Cardiovascular system
  • Digestive system
  • Bones and muscles
  • Kidney
  • Bladder
  • Brain and nervous system
  • Eyes
  • Ears
  • Teeth
  • Skin, nails and hair
  • Sleep
  • Body weight
  • Sexuality

Over time, changes occur in the human body that can put an individual at risk for specific health conditions. Muscles become smaller and less efficient; bones shrink and become less dense, making seniors more susceptible to fractures; the digestive system slows down; kidneys become less efficient in removing waste; the number of brain cells decreases, making memory less efficient; reflexes slow down; retinas become thin and eye lenses become less clear; hair cells in the ears are damaged, leading to hearing loss; teeth become brittle, discoloured and more susceptible to decay; skin thins and becomes less elastic; sleep is more disrupted; metabolism slows down making it more difficult to maintain a healthy body weight; sexual desires and sexual function may change leading to impotence, vaginal dryness and painful intercourse (Mayo Clinic, 2004). All of these characteristics are common in the natural aging process. Knowledge of such changes and the health-related consequences is essential for health professionals as well as for the general public. Inevitably, every individual is going to age; therefore, individuals should be aware of the changes and conditions they are susceptible to in their later years.

Numerous research has reported that the aging process is associated with poor health status and decreasing functioning ability among Canadian seniors (Statistics Canada, 2001; Roberts, & Fawcett, 1998). Aging populations are important from a health perspective as aging is associated with increased prevalence of chronic conditions (Ebrahim, 1997; Statistics Canada, 2005), injury (Health Canada, 2002), abuse (Statistics Canada, 2000), low literacy levels (Statistics Canada, 2003; Roberts, & Fawcett, 1998), disability (Hogan, Ebly, & Fung, 1999; Statistics Canada, 2001), and mental health conditions.

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Chronic Conditions

Seniors are at risk of developing a number of health-related conditions as a result of the natural aging process. These include hypertension, frail bones, constipation, urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control), loss of vision and hearing ability, dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and infection, and obesity. It is important that aging does not result in extensive disability and reduced quality of life in the later years. Early identification and a healthy lifestyle are key to living happy and healthy into the later years of life.

Canadian seniors have a higher prevalence of diabetes (Statistics Canada, 2005), dementia (Canadian Medical Association, 2004), Alzheimer Disease (Diamond, 2005); glaucoma (Glaucoma Research Society of Canada, 2005), osteoporosis (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2001); stroke (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2005), heart disease (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2005), foot problems (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2005), and incontinence (McDowell, 1998).

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Injury

Injury among Canadian seniors is a highly prevalent problem resulting in increased healthcare costs and adverse health effects. The two most common causes of injury among this group are falls and motor vehicle accidents. As an individual ages, a number of biological, behaviour, environmental, social and economic changes occur putting the senior at greater risk for injury. Identification of injury risk factors for seniors is important in reducing the burden of injuries among this population.

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Elder Abuse

Elder or senior abuse is often a hidden problem faced by many Canadians today. Although the exact prevalence of elder abuse is difficult to measure, an estimated 4-7% of the Canadian population over the age of 65 years have reported personal exposure to abuse or neglect (Podnieks, Pillemer, Nicholson, Shillington, & Frizzel, 1990; Statistics Canada, 2000). With the increase in the senior Canadian population, this is an important issue as abuse and neglect have a significant impact on the overall health and functionality of seniors.

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Low Literacy levels

Recent reports have stated that Canadian seniors have significantly lower literacy scores compared to the general population (Statistics Canada, 2003). This has serious implications as low literacy levels have been strongly linked to decreased health status. Around 82% of the Canadian population aged 65 years and older have literacy skills lower than the minimum level to function effectively in Canada’s knowledge and information based society (Statistics Canada, 2003). The inability to read and understand medication instructions puts seniors at risk for medication errors and the associated health consequences. Furthermore, lack of literacy skills may make it difficult for seniors to interact with healthcare professionals, understand health information and navigate through the health system. Extra effort may be required when communicating and following up with an elderly client to ensure comprehension and medication safety.

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Disability

Canadian life expectancy has increased steadily over the last one hundred years.

Individuals are living longer with some type of disability. Studies have demonstrated that disability increases with age (Hogan, Ebly, & Fung, 1999; Statistics Canada, 2001). Significantly, more seniors are living with a disability compared to the disability rate of the general population. Mobility, hearing, vision, memory, speech, and pain are examples of the common types of disabilities Canadian seniors are reporting. Diseases and various conditions have been identified as risk factors for disability in the elderly (Fried, & Guralnick, 1997). However, disability can result from the process of aging, without the presence of disease risk factors (Hogan, et al, 1999). Needless to say, seniors are at increased risk of disability.

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Mental Health Problems

The aging process involves a significant amount of loss (Suzman, & Riley, 1985). Seniors experience financial loss as their incomes rely on pensions, their savings slowly diminish and added health care costs impact their financial situation. As an individual ages, they lose much of their physical strength; they are not able to do things physically as they once were. Vision, hearing and mobility decreases. Mental capacity decreases leading to difficulties with memory and cognitive abilities. Individuals face many losses as they age. Lastly, seniors experience emotional loss from death of loved ones and close friends. This in turn impacts a senior’s emotional state and may contribute to feelings of isolation, loneliness and depression. Dementia is prevalent in the Canadian senior population, affecting approximately 8% of individuals 65 years and older (Canadian medical association, 1994). Moreover, reports have indicated that Canadian seniors experience an increased rate of depression compared to the general population (Statistics Canada, 2005).

The natural aging process in addition to a high prevalence of chronic disease, low literacy levels, and injury puts Canadian seniors at increased risk of disability and poor overall health status. It is extremely important that health professionals recognize the challenges faced by the elderly and provide ongoing health monitoring, disease prevention and thorough and easy to read health information and instruction.

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Canadian Senior Population Statistics

Canada, like many other developed countries around the world, is experiencing the effects of an increasing life expectancy and decreasing birth rate; individuals are living longer and having fewer children. This is a result of many factors including technological advancement, 2-parent working families, etc.

In 2005, Canada’s total population was approximately 32.2 million people. Elderly people, those 65 years and over, account for 13% of the population (Statistics Canada, 2005). Further, 5.1% of the Canadian population reported to be 75 years or older (Statistics Canada, 2005). Elderly women represent slightly more of the Senior Canadian population than do men. Women, over the age of 65 years represent approximately 2.4 million people and 14.7% of the total female population. Males over the age of 65 years represent approximately 1.8 million, or 11.6% of the total male population. Seniors are the fastest growing population in Canada today. Statistics Canada projects that the seniors’ population will grow to 23% of the Canadian population by 2041, with the greatest increase in the 75 years and older category.

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Immigrant Senior Population Statistics

Much of Canada’s population growth today is a result of immigration. The 2001 Canadian census reported that 18.4% of Canada’s population is immigrants and approximately 19% of the immigrant population in Canada is over the age of 65. Furthermore, 28.4% of the total senior population of 13% in Canada (65 years +) are immigrants (Statistics Canada, 2005). The following is a breakdown of the continent of origin for senior immigrants in Canada:

  • 68% are from Europe
  • 2% are from Central and South America
  • 2% are from Africa
  • 19% are from Asia

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Seniors, Literacy and Health

Low-literate seniors are a high-risk group for decreased health status as seniors tend to have higher rates of low literacy compared to the general population (Statistics Canada, 2003; Roberts & Fawcett, 1998). In the 2003 International Adult Literacy and Skills Survey (IALSS), 82% of Canadian seniors aged 65 and older have literacy skills lower than the minimum level to function effectively in Canada’s knowledge and information based society (Statistics Canada, 2003). This is a concern for health professionals as seniors may not understand the advice or instructions health professionals provide. Also, due to their low level of literacy skills, Canadian seniors may not have the language skills necessary to ask important questions or voice significant concerns. Seniors are at high risk of medication errors as many seniors take more than one type of medication prescribed by more than one physician. According to Tamblyn & Perreault (1998), seniors make up approximately 12% of the Canadian population and they receive between 28-40% of all prescriptions (Tamblyn, & Perreault, 1998). Medication non-compliance is expected to become an even bigger problem as baby boomers age and require more medications. Low literacy levels of seniors is an important factor to consider in the health care setting. It is important that seniors be part of the decision-making process that involves their treatment procedures and health concerns. As well, extra effort may be required to communicate the medication regime and follow up on compliance.

Health Canada has created a medication kit that outlines techniques to improve communication between health providers and seniors specifically directed at how to help seniors use their medication safely. The following are a selection of techniques that can be utilized by healthcare providers to help seniors understand their medication regime and safe administration:

  • Use clear verbal communication
  • Use common words
  • Frequently check to see if the patient understands
  • Organize the information
  • Couple verbal communication with written information
  • Explain to the senior what it means by “take as directed”
  • Explain the physical characteristics of the pills when talking about a specific medication

For more detailed information refer to the Health Canada document at

http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/pubs/med_matters/pdf/med_matters_e.pdf

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Seniors and Disability

Many Canadian seniors are active, healthy and living independently in their communities. However, it is natural that as individual’s age, physical and intellectual functioning is reduced. As life expectancy is gradually increasing and older adults are living longer, an increasing number of individuals are living with some type of disability.

Canadian seniors are faced with disabilities that arose at birth, disabilities that resulted after injury, trauma or illness, as well as disabilities associated with age-related disease. Studies have demonstrated that in general, disability prevalence and severity increases with age (Hogan, Ebly, & Fung, 1999; Statistics Canada, 2001). According to Statistics Canada, 41% of Canadian seniors 65 years and over and 53.3% of seniors 75 years and older reported having some type of disability (Statistics Canada, 2001). This is significantly higher than the disability rate of the general population of 12.6%. Mobility problems are the most common type of disability among seniors; affecting eight in ten Canadian seniors with disability (Statistics Canada, 2001). Memory was another common disability affecting 4.3%, or one in ten of the Canadian senior population.

Seniors have an increased risk of developing a number of diseases and conditions that have been identified as risk factors for disability for the elderly (Fried, & Guralnick, 1997). Stroke, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, dementia, glaucoma, and foot problems are all conditions associated with disability and they all have a greater prevalence among seniors, 65 years and older (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2005). Moreover, seniors are at higher risk of injuries, which depending on the severity, have the potential to result in functional, physical, cognitive or total disability.

A study by Hogan, Ebly and Fung (1999) examined whether diseases have similar impact on cognitively intact seniors 65-84 years of age and seniors 85 years plus. Their findings indicated that seniors aged 85 years plus, had almost twice as many functional disabilities compared to individuals in the 65-84 year age group. As well, disability increased with age in those individuals with and without disease risk factors. This result suggests that disability occurs in the elderly even in the absence of an explanatory disease.

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Examples of Diseases that Cause Disability

As mentioned above, the elderly are at higher risk of developing diseases with associated disability. Stroke, foot problems, and arthritis and how temporary and/or permanent disability can result from the presence of disease in the elderly population is outlined below.

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Stroke

Seniors are at greater risk of stroke compared to the younger Canadian population. Strokes can occur at various degrees depending on the type of stroke, the area of the brain affected as well as the size of the damaged area. A stroke can result in various degrees of disability, some reversible, but some permanent. Disabilities associated with the result of a stroke include paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, depression, difficulties understanding language and recognizing objects, trouble learning and remembering new information, and changes in personality. Strokes can cause physical, cognitive, and emotional disability. Rehabilitation proceeding a stroke is essential in trying to recover lost ability (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2005).

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Foot Problems

Seniors have been reported to have a higher incidence of foot problems compared to the younger population (PHAC, 2005). Approximately three out of four people will develop foot problems as they age. This is of concern as healthy feet contribute to your overall health and safety; they allow individuals to stay active and provide balance. Health problems such as diabetes, arthritis, circulation problems, and nerve damage are a few health conditions that can impact the health of individual’s feet. Additionally, these health conditions and associated foot problems can contribute to infection and functional disability impacting ones walking, ability to prepare meals, and other daily functional activities (PHAC, 2005).

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Arthritis

Arthritis is a major debilitating condition among Canadian seniors. Health Canada estimates that 85% of Canadians will be affected by osteoarthritis by the age of 70 years (PHAC, 2000). Arthritis results in pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints as a consequence of cartilage damage. Arthritis contributes significantly to activity limitations; individuals alter their daily functioning activities as a result of the immense amount of pain and stiffness associated with the disorder.

Statistics Canada (2001). A profile of Disability in Canada. http://www.statcan.ca/english/freepub/89-577-XIE/pdf/89-577-XIE01001.pdf

Persons with Disabilities Online. Service Canada. Available at
http://www.pwd-online.ca/pwdhome.jsp?lang=en

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Seniors and Hearing Issues

Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions affecting Canada’s senior population today. Hearing loss is often considered to be an unavoidable consequence of the aging process. Over time, hair cells in the ear structure die, leading to reduced transmission of sound to the brain and a decreased perceived sound. An ongoing decline in hearing ability is the common trend as an individual ages. As a result, seniors tend to experience a high prevalence of hearing problems compared individuals younger than 65 years (Millar, 2005). Along with hearing loss, typically comes a decrease in ones quality of life (Dalton, Cruickshanks, Klein, Wiley, & Nondahl, 2003)

According to the Canadian Community Health Survey 2003, 3% of the Canadian population over the age of 12 years reported some type of complication with their hearing. Of the 3% of individuals who identified difficulties with their hearing, 55% of them were seniors (Statistics Canada, 2003). The national average for seniors, 65 years and older, with hearing difficulties is approximately 11%. Interestingly, the proportion of male seniors with hearing difficulties was significantly greater than the proportion of female seniors with hearing difficulties.

The majority of seniors who reported hearing difficulties indicated that their hearing problems have been corrected by visiting a health professional and receiving the treatment or assisted devices necessary to improve their hearing situation. Moreover, 3% of seniors who reported a hearing problem indicated that their hearing problem has not yet been corrected (Statistics Canada, 2003). An uncorrected hearing problem puts the individual at risk of harm associated with injury, errors in medication instruction and mental health issues associated with social isolation.

For tips on how to effectively communicate with the hearing impaired, refer to the following website http://www.ec-online.net/Knowledge/Articles/communication.html

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Seniors and Vision Issues

As individuals age, problems with their vision start to surface. Reduced vision as a result of the natural aging process in combination with aging eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, presbyopia etc. add to the poor vision quality often experienced by the Canadian senior population.  Difficulties range in severity from difficulties reading and watching television to difficulties driving, walking and taking part in daily activities (Millar, 2004).

According to the response from the Canadian Community Health Survey, 82% of seniors aged 65 years and older reported having some type of vision problem (Statistics Canada, 2003). 78% of seniors with vision problems reported that their difficulties had been corrected by means of glasses, surgery, or other treatment procedures. However, 4% of seniors with vision problems reported uncorrected vision problems putting them at high risk for visual disabilities and injury.

The natural aging process involves a gradual decline in anatomic and physiological processes of the eye, such as reduction in pupil size and loss of focusing ability. Elderly individuals may experience a delay in dark adaptation, which may lead to difficulties with night vision (Jackson, Owsley, & McGwin, 1999). Further, contrast sensitivity and colour vision may be reduced as one ages, resulting in difficulties distinguishing between similar colours. Older persons may have to concentrate more effort into doing things that once came so quickly. Accommodations such as increasing the illumination of a room may have to be made to allow for better visual perception. Proper illumination is important for the elderly as they are at increased risk of injury in particular as a result of their reduced vision. By taking the proper preventive measures, many naturally occurring vision conditions can be corrected or improved with eye exams, glasses, contact lenses and basic accommodations.

On top of the natural aging process, seniors are at greater risk for developing age-related eye diseases that can cause significant vision reduction and/or blindness. Diabetes, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and dry eye are a few common conditions frequently experienced by Canadian seniors that have the potential to lead to significant vision loss.

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Diabetes

Diabetes is common disease in which the body does not properly produce or use insulin, resulting in elevated or inconsistent blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a serious disease. If blood sugar levels are not properly controlled, diabetes can lead to a number of considerable complications including nerve, oral, heart, kidney, blood vessel and eye disease. According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, approximately 40% of Canadians with diabetes will suffer from some degree of long-term complications.

Diabetic induced retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to blood vessels in the eye. Blood vessel damage can occur at the back of the eye on the retina, leading to vision impairment (Canadian Diabetes Association, 2005). Approximately one third of individuals with diabetes will develop retinopathy. In addition, individuals with diabetes are at increased risk of developing cataracts.

According to 2000/2001 data, diabetes is prevalent in 12.9% of Canadian seniors between ages 65-74 and in 12.5% of Canadian seniors 75 years and older. The prevalence in seniors is significantly greater than the 4.1% prevalence in the general population (Statistics Canada, 2005a).

Since the prevalence of diabetes is higher in seniors compared to the general population; seniors are at increased risk of developing diabetes related complications including retinopathy. Regular eye exams are essential for seniors, especially those with a history of diabetes or vision problems. Early identification of eye trouble leads to increased chances of improvement.

For more information on Diabetes refer to Health Canada. Seniors and Diabetes
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/pubs/workshop_healthyaging/pdf/workshop2_e.pdf

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Cataracts

Cataracts are a normal part of aging and can be effectively treated. Essentially, cataracts are a clouding over of the lens in the eye that results in blurred or distorted vision. Treatment involves removing the damaged lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens (University of Ottawa Eye Institute, 2005). According to statistics from the National Coalition for vision health, approximately 244,000 cataract operations were performed in Canada in 2001 (National Coalition for Vision Health, 2005).

For more information on Cataracts contact the following website
http://www.eyesite.ca

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Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the most common eye diseases among seniors today (Glaucoma Research Society of Canada, 2005). It is a disease that involves damage to the optic nerve, the nerve responsible for transmitting what you see to your brain. Early detection can result in prevention of further damage and reduced risk of blindness. However, if glaucoma goes untreated, it can lead to blindness (University of Ottawa Eye Institute, 2005).

Individuals of every ethnicity, gender and culture are at risk of suffering from glaucoma. However, certain criteria have been established for those individuals at increased risk. Individuals are at increased risk of developing glaucoma if they are over the age of 40 years, have a family history of glaucoma, are diabetic, have high eye pressure, are nearsighted, have a history of eye injury, or are of African or Chinese ancestry (Glaucoma Research Society of Canada, 2005).

Glaucoma affects approximately 1 in every 100 Canadians over the age of 40 (Canadian Ophthalmological Society, 2005). The majority of Canadians are not fully aware that glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in Canada. Most startling, an estimated 300,000 Canadians have glaucoma today; however, only approximately 50% of these individuals are aware they have the disease (National Coalition for Vision Health, 2005).

For more information on Glaucoma research contact the Glaucoma Research Society of Canada at http://www.glaucomaresearch.ca or the University of Ottawa Eye institute at http://www.eyeinstitute.net/

For more information on seniors and vision problems visit the following websites:

Canadian Ophthalmological Society
http://www.eyesite.ca/english/public-information/eye-conditions/index.htm

Alberta Association of Optometrists – The Worksight Newsletter.
http://www.optometrists.ab.ca

Research: Looming Crisis in Vision Care
http://newsrelease.uwaterloo.ca/news.php?id=1467

Health Canada. Vision Care Info-sheet for seniors.
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/pubs/info_sheets/vision_care/

National Coalition for Vision Health.
http://www.visionhealth.ca

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Seniors and Abuse

Every individual is at risk of abuse independent of age, gender, ethnicity, occupation, social status, etc. People aged 65 years and older are one of Canada’s fastest growing populations and projections estimate that this population is going to continue to grow. One concern in regards to the growing senior population is the possible rise in abuse toward Canadian seniors. Abuse of older adults, also known as elder or senior abuse is a significant problem faced by many Canadian seniors today. Abuse can come in many forms, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, financial abuse, spiritual abuse and neglect. An abused senior may experience one or more of the above forms of abuse at any one given time. Seniors who are victims of abuse and neglect are at increased risk of poor overall health status. Physical abuse can result in confounding health effects in seniors. Emotional abuse can lead to feelings of isolation, social exclusion and depression. Neglect can result in unmet health needs and associated implications. Needless to say, seniors are a fragile population and abuse only adds to their fragility.

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Prevalence

Prevalence of abuse among Canadian seniors is difficult to measure, as many seniors may be reluctant to identify themselves and take no action against their abusers for a number of reasons; fear of the abuser, embarrassment, fear of leaving home, etc. A 1990 survey of 2,000 older adults reported that approximately 4% of older adults living in private dwellings experience abuse and/or neglect (Podnieks, Pillemer, Nicholson, Shillington, Frizzel, 1990). Material abuse, emotional abuse and physical abuse were the three most common forms of abuse reported in this study.

In 1999, a report indicated that approximately 7% of Canadian seniors reported experiencing some form of emotional or financial abuse in the previous five years (Statistics Canada, 2000).

Again, the exact prevalence of elder abuse is unknown because it continues to be a hidden problem. However, it is happening in Canada and health providers should be aware of it.

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Warning Signs of Elder Abuse

Some important warning signs that may indicate that an older adult is being abused include the following (Wahl, & Purdy, 2002):

  • Depression, increased anxiety, fear, nervousness
  • Dehydration, malnutrition, lack of adequate food
  • Physical injuries in which the senior cannot explain
  • Poor personal hygiene
  • Over-sedated with medication

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Explanations

Many explanations exist to explain the reasons behind elder abuse.  A common explanation involves abuse being provoked by stress on the caregiver.  Mental health status of the caregiver can result in elder abuse. The victim may be emotionally, financially and socially dependent on the abuser, making them more susceptible to maltreatment and to physical, emotional and financial abuse. Abuse may be a learned behaviour, such as in transgenerational family violence; abusers may see nothing wrong with the abuse they subject the victim to as they have learned this behaviour through experience (Dauvergne, 2003).

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Consequences

Elder abuse is a hidden problem that is present in Canada. The consequence of such abuse has widespread repercussions and can be devastating and possibly fatal for the senior victims. Consequences are also felt by the family and the community as a whole.  

Physical injuries as a result of abuse may do serious damage because of the increased frailty.  Physical injury can also aggravate preexisting chronic conditions leading to increased morbidity. Elders may have feelings of shame, isolation, low self-worth, or social rejection as a result of the abuse.

Every effort on behalf of the health care provider and the general public must be made to help decrease the prevalence and break the silence.

For more comprehensive information on Abuse and Neglect of Seniors in Canada, refer to the following documents

Abuse and Neglect of older Adults: A discussion paper. Health Canada.
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/ncfv-cnivf/familyviolence/pdfs/Abuse%20and%20Neglect.pdf

Abuse and Neglect of Older Adults. Health Canada.
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/ncfv-cnivf/familyviolence/html/agenegl_e.html

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Seniors and Injury

Injuries among Canadian seniors are a highly prevalent problem that results in high costs to the healthcare system and disability and negative health outcomes for the individual. Estimated direct and indirect costs related to injuries in Canada are $8.7 million (Health Canada, 2002). Although seniors only represent 13% of the total Canadian population, they make up a significant percentage of total injury hospitalizations.

Falls are the most common type of injury among seniors. It is estimated that one in three seniors over the age of 65 years will experience at least one fall per year (Health Canada, 2002). In 2002/2003, seniors 65-74 years of age had approximately 12,000 fall-related hospital cases. Moreover, seniors between the ages of 75-84 years had approximately 21,000 fall-related hospital cases (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2005). Needless to say, falls are a prevalent and highly preventable cause of injury faced by many Canadian seniors. The most common type of fall injury for Canadian seniors is a hip fracture.

The second most prevalent type of injury are motor vehicle collisions. It is well known that seniors are more likely to die from their injuries or take longer to recover compared to younger populations.   

An analysis of head and spinal injuries by Pickett, Rachel, & Julio in 1999, indicated that 20% of head and spinal cord injuries in Ontario between the years 1994 and 1998 were sustained by individuals 70 years old or greater (Taggart, 2003). The major cause of head and spinal injuries was falls.

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Why are seniors more prone to injury?

A number of biological, behavioural, environmental and social factors exist that place seniors at greater risk of injury (Health Canada, 2002).

Biological Factors – As an individual ages, they experience adverse changes in their vision, hearing, muscle mass, bone density, etc. Further, seniors experience higher prevalence of chronic conditions such as stroke, Parkinsons, and cardiovascular disorders that place them at increased risk. Elderly individuals may also experience frailty, difficulties with balance, and slowed reflexes putting them at increased risk for injury.

Behavioural Factors – Elderly individuals may experience changes in their behaviour patterns as they age. Seniors are more likely to be taking medication including a number of prescriptions from more than one physician. Therefore, they are more likely to experience drug side effects and drug interactions as a result. Medication use can change the individual’s behaviour, by making them dizzy, drowsy, impede their balance, etc, thereby increasing the risk of injury. Further, elderly individuals may react differently to alcohol consumption, putting them at risk for injury.

Environmental Factors – are those that exist in the elderly individual’s environment. Examples include stairs, icy sidewalks, poor lighting, objects in pathway, etc. There are factors that put an elderly person at increased risk for injury. Therefore, it is important to consider potential environmental hazards and make a safe and secure environment for seniors.

Social/Economic Factors – Seniors with limited income may be less likely to have required assisted devices, such as a hearing aid, cane, walker, eye glasses, etc. Lack of such devices puts seniors at risk of injury. Poverty has been related to a higher incidence of chronic illness (SITE). Further, a chronic health condition contributes to added disability and greater likelihood of injury.

Identification of potential injury risk factors for seniors is important in reducing the prevalence and incidence of injury among this growing population. Pharmacology monitoring, physical exercise to improve muscle and bone strength, environmental modifications, and providing assisted devices can all contribute to injury prevention among Canadian seniors.

Health Canada has developed a document entitled “Healthy Aging: Prevention of Unintentional Injuries among Seniors”. For more detailed information on injury statistics, direct and indirect risk factors and prevention measures, please refer to the following link.http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/pubs/workshop_healthyaging/pdf/injury_prevention_e.pdf

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Seniors and Oral Health

Oral health status is an important public health issue that is often overlooked. Oral health plays an essential role in an individual’s overall health and general well-being. Evidence exists to link oral disease such as dental caries and periodontal disease to many serious conditions; heart disease, diabetes, premature and low birth weight babies, and respiratory diseases (Health Canada, 2004). There is a general perception world-wide that tooth loss and oral disease is a natural part of aging; however, safe and effective disease prevention measures make oral disease a highly preventable condition.

Research is limited involving the oral health status of older adults in Canada. However, a trend exists indicating the prevalence of oral disease increases with age (World Health Organization, 2003). As an individual ages, they may begin to have difficulties taking care of their teeth and gums. This may be a result of arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, or any other debilitating condition that may make brushing and flossing uncomfortable. Dental care is not universal, and therefore regular dental visits for seniors may be limited due to financial problems and/or accessibility issues. There are number of possible explanations for the increased prevalence of oral disease as individual’s age. The bottom line is that infection in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body, which is of serious concern, especially for frail elderly.

A study by Westover (1999) investigated the oral health needs of seniors in rural Alberta. The results indicated an overall poor oral health status and behaviours among the population. 64.4% of individuals who wore dentures were found to have calculus on one or more dentures. Of those with their natural teeth, 41.8% had dental caries, 83.6% brushed daily and 57% never flossed. Further, 83.9% of the participants had not been to a dentist or denturists within the past year. This study indicated a high level of oral health need among seniors in rural Alberta. Ongoing preventative practice in addition to immediate professional services may help improve the situation (Westover, 1999).

A study by Galan, Brecx, & Heath (1995) investigated the oral health status of 170 seniors over the age of 65 years to determine the level of oral health need. Findings were startling. 7% of participants brushed at least once per day. 60% of participants never flossed. Only 14% cleaned their dentures daily. Overall, 77% of participants who wore dentures required some type of immediate dental treatment and all of the individuals with their natural teeth required immediate dental services. This study reinforced the poor oral health status and high level of oral health need among Canada’s senior population.

The oral health of Canadian seniors is an important health issue that should be given more attention. Health Professionals and caregivers must be aware of the impact of poor oral health on overall general well-being. Oral care is an important component of everyday functioning and this should be practiced by all age groups, including Canada’s older adults.

Oral Health of Seniors – A Nova Scotia Project. http://www.ahprc.dal.ca/oralhealth/WebPagePresentations.htm

The Silent Epidemic of Oral Disease: Evaluating Continuity of Care and Policies for the Oral Health Care of Seniors (2004).http://www.ahprc.dal.ca/oralhealth//Reports/ProjectFinalReport.pdf

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Seniors and Mental Health Issues

The majority of Canadian seniors live active and fulfilling lives with limited disability and illness. However, for some, the aging process has taken a toll on their physical health, as well as their mental health. As individuals age, they may start to experience a greater sense of loss. Retirement, death of a loved one and deteriorating health can lead to frustration, social and emotional isolation and mental illness. Other than dementia and depression, most other mental illness profiles among seniors are similar to those of the general population.

Dementia is a common mental condition among Canadian seniors. Dementia is essentially the loss of mental capacity that impedes an individuals ability to function intellectually and socially. The prevalence for dementia among Canadian senior population 65 years and older has been estimated at 8% (Canadian Medical Association, 1994). Prevalence of dementia has been reported to rise with age. A 1991 study investigated the prevalence of dementia and reported that 2.4% of individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 years met the criteria for dementia, 11.1% of individuals aged 75-84 years and 34.5% of those aged 85 year and older.

For more comprehensive information regarding Alzheimer’s and related dementia, refer to the Government of Canada Health Portal website.

The increased social and emotional isolation that can occur as an individual grows older, can put an individual at greater risk for depression. According to Statistics Canada National population Health Survey (2005), the number of weeks an individual 65 years and greater reported to being depressed was greater than the overall general population. On average, seniors between the ages of 65 and 74 years of age reported being depressed 9.1 weeks out of the year. This is compared to the 7.5 weeks average of the general population (Statistics Canada, 2005).

Mental illness is common in the senior population, especially dementia and depression. Promoting good mental health among the senior population in Canada is just as important as treating poor mental health. Maintaining good mental health among seniors had been shown to improve quality of life and have an encouraging impact on their overall health and well-being (Canadian Mental Health Association, 2006).

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Health and Immigrant Seniors

The Canadian senior population is one of the fastest growing populations in Canada today (Statistics Canada, 2003). Immigrants make up a significant proportion of the Canadian senior population (28.4%); making the implications of health status, service utilization and health care needs of older immigrant Canadians of great importance. The health of immigrant seniors is complex. The health status of immigrant elderly depends heavily on the age in which the individual immigrated to Canada. The healthy immigration effect has been well documented in Canadian research. The phenomenon suggests that upon arrival to Canada, immigrants are typically healthier than the general population counterparts. However, over time, this health status advantage deteriorates as immigrant health status becomes similar to the host population. If the elderly immigrant arrived to Canada in their later years, thereby spending much of their aging process in their country of origin, they are more likely to have difficulties speaking English or French and therefore be socially and economically dependent upon their families and/or sponsors. Elderly immigrants just arriving will have different health and social needs compared to immigrants arriving as children, youth, and middle-aged adults (Durst, 2005). Immigration to Canada at an older age can bring considerable stress and trauma for the senior. They have left a familiar country, their cultural heritage, and many life-long relationships, to live in an unfamiliar environment where they may become dependent upon family members for financial, social and emotional support.

A recent report on health disparities in Older Visible Minorities in Canada (http://sswr.confex.com/sswr/2006/techprogram/P4051.HTM ), described the results of a study that investigated 1) if middle-aged and older adults (aged 45 years and older) who belong to an ethnic minority group have poorer health status compared to other minority groups and the majority, and 2) if ethnicity and socioeconomic status has an impact on the general health status of older people. Data from the 1998 national population health survey was used. Findings indicated that older Canadians with ethnic minority status had poorer overall health status compared to individuals of the ethnic majority group. As the ethnic minority groups aged, however, the effects of ethnic minority on health status diminished and immigrants joined the Canadian norms. 97% of all immigrants in this study had resided in Canada for ten years or more. Therefore, the findings reinforce the healthy immigration effect, which describes the diminished health status of immigrants over time (McDonald, Colontonio, Clarke, McClearly, George, Marziali, 2006).

Studies from the United States suggest that members of ethnic communities face barriers in accessing timely and appropriate mental health services compared to the general population (Vega, Kolody, Aguilar-Gaxiola, Catalano, 1999; Livingston, Leavey, Kitchen, Maela, Sembhi, & Katona, 2002). Mental health services have been reported to be used significantly less by individuals of an ethnic minority compared to the white-dominant population ().

The Government of Canada National Advisory Council on aging published the document seniors from ethnocultural minorities in 2005. This document examined common challenges and disadvantages that ethnocultural minority seniors face; these included income, health, health care, family and community support. Policy directions were recommended to ensure that seniors from ethnocultural minorities have the same opportunity for health and overall well-being as the general Canadian senior population. Seniors of various ethnocultural minorities have been reported to experience unique barriers to health care and other services that individuals from the general population may not face. These barriers include language and cultural differences, racism, limited income sources, poverty and discrimination. All of these barriers can have a negative impact on ones health.

Poverty is a reality for many seniors, more so for immigrant seniors. To quality for old age security benefit program in Canada, an individual must have resided in Canada for more than 10 years. Further, they do not quality for full benefits until they have resided in Canada for more than 40 years. Therefore, the older the age at immigration to Canada, the more likely an individual will live in poverty (Kazemipur, & Halli, 2003). Work opportunities become limited as one ages, in addition, foreign training may not be recognized in Canada and language barriers may limit employability. Studies have shown that poverty is more commonly experienced by senior women compared to senior men regardless of immigration status. Data from 1995 indicates that 26.5% of immigrant senior women and 17.5% of immigrant senior men had low incomes compared to the non-immigrant senior men (11.5%) and non-immigrant senior women (23%) (Grant, & Grant, 2002).

Language and cultural barriers may prevent ethnocultural minority seniors from accessing health care services including prevention and screening services and acute care services. Language and literacy barriers can prevent an elderly senior from expressing their problems and asking for services they need. In addition, immigrant seniors may feel like a burden to their families when addressing health issues and there they may not communicate problems and keep them hidden until they get worse. For this reason, culturally and linguistically appropriate services such as access to interpreters and translated health education are important for addressing the health needs of this population. Further, outreach services are important in reaching out to immigrant seniors who may otherwise ignore their health problems until they get unbearable. Community services and family support is essential in ensuring the appropriate care is provides to the immigrant seniors.

Ethnocultural minority seniors are at increased risk for certain mental health problems. In addition to the natural losses that accompany the aging process, immigrant seniors are also coping with the stress of immigration and the cultural shock experience of leaving their country of origin. The older the age at immigration, the greater likelihood of mental health problems. In addition, older immigrants that join their families in Canada often tend to take on the responsibilities of care giving for their young grandchildren. Although providing care to their grandchildren can be enjoyable and rewarding for the elders, it can also be hard and exhausting work, and have possible negative impacts on their heath. This type of role can be considerably time consuming and keep the elderly immigrants isolated and away from social activities and peer group members; this in turn can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. A model for planning and establishing a Culturally and Linguistic Diverse (CALD) program for grandmothers who care for their young grandchildren is available at http://www.whin.org.au/pdf/GAC_MODEL.pdf

For more information on the health of seniors from Ethnocultural minorities refer to the following document from the National Advisory Council on Aging at http://www.nia.nih.gov/AboutNIA/NACA/

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Chinese Seniors in Canada

A study by Lai (2004) investigated the health status of the aging Chinese-Canadian population and compared it to data on the general aging population in Canada. A secondary data analysis was performed from the Health and Well-being of Older Chinese in Canada, and from the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item short form. This data on the health status of Chinese elderly in Canada was then compared to Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form (Health status) data from the older Canadian population. The demographic profile of the Chinese sample population indicated that 97.5% were immigrants.

The overall findings of the study indicated that the older Chinese-Canadians reported better overall physical health, but significantly worse mental health compared to the older Canadian population. Interestingly, a gender difference was identified between the older Chinese-Canadian men and women. Older Chinese-Canadian women were significantly less healthy compared to the men in all of the health aspects measured. This study suggested that Chinese-Canadians may have unmet health needs. Therefore, culturally appropriate health services are required to try and reduce barriers to health services access.

A study by Sadavoy, Meier, & Ong (2004) investigated the barriers to accessing mental health services by ethno racial seniors in urban Toronto Chinese and Tamil communities. A series of barriers were identified in preventing ethnic seniors from accessing mental health services.

Social isolation was frequently expressed and attributed to a number of factors such as language difficulties, isolated living accommodations, lack of knowledge and understand on how to access services and navigate through the system.

Interpersonal stressors were communicated. These included:

  • emotional distressed caused by family issues such as intergenerational disagreements on traditional vs. western-based values.
  • Seniors living in families with financial difficulties and busy schedules expressed feelings of neglect and lack of time or energy directed toward the health of the senior.
  • A lack of knowledge surrounding mental health services provided at the community as well as institutional level.
  • Lack of ethnic professionals in mainstream health care settings who can provide culturally appropriate and linguistic services to seniors. Language barriers were a concern for seniors, as many required an interpreter which often was a close family member. Concerns were voiced in terms of confidentiality.
  • Geographical barriers – seniors expressed difficulty accessing services at a distance from their home.

Reluctance to disclose personal mental health issues was expressed as a barrier to accessing services. The stigma associated with mental illness was a concern for the seniors as they do not want to impair the reputation of the family.

Mental health service providers with a language and cultural understanding was the most clearly identified barrier in mental health services provision for Chinese and Tamil communities in urban Toronto. Seniors most often rely on their family members in identifying and referring the elder for mental health treatment. This is the result of a number of factors such as lack of knowledge of the services available, as well as how to access these services. Language barriers continue to be a problem and impact the interaction between the service provider and the client.

Related Reports and Resources:

Towards An Understanding of Well-Being in Aging Ethnic Immigrant Populations in Canada – An Evaluation Study of the Immigrant Seniors Group at the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria. (Link no longer available)

Aging Among Immigrants in Canada. (2004).
http://www.ccsd.ca/cswp/2005/durst.pdf

Another source of info on seniors of diverse cultures, that is relevant is the City of Calgary's Cultural Cues - a resource guide for service providers working with Calgary's Culturally Diverse Seniors.
http://www.calgary.ca/docgallery/bu/cns/cultural_cues.pdf

http://www.calgary.ca/docgallery/bu/cns/cultural_cues.pdf

The Experiences of South Asian Immigrant Seniors Living in Edmonton, Alberta: Report to the Community. (2004). Available at
http://www.ualberta.ca/~aging/SouthAsianImmigrantSeniors.pdf

A Study on the Settlement Related Needs of Newly Arrived Immigrant Seniors in Ontario. (2001). Available at http://atwork.settlement.org/downloads/
Settlement_Needs_Immigrant_Seniors.pdf

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References, Reports and Websites

Bryant, T., Brown, I., Cogan, T., Dallaire, C., Laforest, S., McGowen, P.,
Raphael, D., Richard, L., Thompson, L., Young, J. (2004). What do Canadian Seniors Say Supports their quality of life? Canadian Journal of Public Health, 95,4, 299-303.

Canadian Diabetes Association. (2005). Complications of Diabetes. (link no longer available)

Canadian Medical Association (1994). Canadian Study of health and aging: study
methods and prevalence of dementia. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 150(6), 899-913.

Dauvergne, M. (2003). Family violence against seniors. Canadian Social Trends, 68, p.10.

Dalton, D., Cruickshanks, K., Klein, B., Klein, R., Wiley, T., & Nondahl, D. (2003).The impact of hearing loss on quality of life in older adults. The Gerontologist, 43,5, 661.

Durst, D. (2005). Aging among Immigrants in Canada: Policy and Planning Implications. Available at http://www.ccsd.ca/cswp/2005/durst.pdf

Ebrahim, S.(1997). Public Health Implications of aging. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, 51, 469-472.

Fried, L., Guralnik, J. (1997). Disability in older adults: evidence regarding significance, etiology, and risk. Journal of American Geriatric Society, 45, p. 92-100.

Galan, D., Brecx, M., Heath, M. (1995). Oral health status of a population of community-dwelling older Canadians. Gerondontology, 12(1), 41-48.

Health Canada. (2004). The effects of oral health on overall health. Available at http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/english/iyh/lifestyles/dental.html

Hogan, D., Ebly, E., Fung, T. (1999). Disease, Disability, and Age in Cognitively Intact Seniors?: Results for the Canadian Study of Health and Aging. 54(2), M77-M82.

Jackson, GR, Owsley, C, McGwin, G. (1999) Aging and dark adaptation Vision Research, 39, 3975-3982

Kazemipur, A., & Halli, S. (2003). Poverty experiences of immigrants: some reflections. Canadian Issues.

Livingston, G., Leavery, G., Kitchen, G., Manela, M., Sembhi, S., & Katona, C., (2002). Accessibility of health and social services to immigrant elders: the Islington study, British Journal of Psychiatry, 180, 369-372.

McDonald, L., Colontonio, A., Clarke, D., McClearly, L., George, U., & Marziali, E. (2006) Health Disparities in Older visible minorities in Canada. Available for review at http://sswr.confex.com/sswr/2006/techprogram/P4051.HTM

Mayo Clinic. (2004). Aging: What to expect as you get older. Available from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aging/HA00040

McDowell, I. (1998). Incontinence among seniors. Summary Available at http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/pubs/info_exchange/incontinence/exch_toc_e.htm

Millar, W. (2005). Hearing problems among seniors. Health Reports, 16, 4, pg. 49-52.

Millar, W. (2004). Vision Problems Among Seniors. Health Reports, 16(1), p.45

Podnieks, E. Pillemer, K., Nicholson, J., Shillington, T., & Frizzel, A. (1990). National Survey on Abuse of the Elderly in Canada. Toronto: Ryerson Polytechnical Institute.

Public Health Agency of Canada. (2005). Report on Seniors’ Falls in Canada. Available at http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/pubs/seniors_falls/pdf/seniors-falls_e.pdf

Public Health Agency of Canada. (2005). Stroke – Info sheet for seniors. (2001) – Osteoporosis Info-sheet for seniors.(2005) –Heart Disease Info-sheet for seniors

Roswenburg, M., Moore, E. (1997). The health of Canada’s Elderly population: current status and future implications. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 157, 1025-1032. Available at http://epe.lac-bac.gc.ca/100/201/300/cdn_medical_association/cmaj/vol-157/issue-8/1025.htm

Sadavoy, J., Meier, R., Mui, A. (2004). Barriers to Access to Mental health services for Ethnic Seniors: The Toronto Study, (49) 3, 192-199.

Statistics Canada. (2001). A profile of Disability in Canada. http://www.statcan.ca/english/freepub/89-577-XIE/pdf/89-577-XIE01001.pdf

Statistics Canada. (2005). Population and Demography. (link no longer available)

Statistics Canada. (2005). Population by sex and age group. Available at
http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/demo10a.htm

Statistics Canada. (2005a). Persons with Diabetes by age and sex.
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Statistics Canada. (2000). Family Violence in Canada: A Statistical Profile 2000
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The Government of Canada. (2001). Disability in Canada: A 2001 Profile.
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Taggart, K. (2003). Older Seniors account for 20% of head, spinal injuries.
Medical Post, 39(12), p.48.

Vega, W., Kolody, B., Aguilar-Gaxiola, S., Catalano, R. (1999). Gaps in service
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Websites and Reports

National Advisory Council on Aging. (2006). Aging and Health.
http://www.nia.nih.gov/AboutNIA/NACA/

A Profile of Seniors in British Columbia
http://www.healthservices.gov.bc.ca/
cpa/publications/profile_of_seniors.pdf

Manitoba’s Seniors (2006).
http://www.umanitoba.ca

Interim Report Card: Seniors in Canada 2003.
http://www.nia.nih.gov/AboutNIA/NACA/

Health Canada. (2005). How you can help seniors use medication safely.
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/pubs/med_matters/pdf/med_matters_e.pdf

Seniors on the Margin: Aging and Poverty in Canada. (2005).
http://www.nia.nih.gov/AboutNIA/NACA/

University of Ottawa Eye Institute.
http://www.eyeinstitute.net/

Osteoporosis Canada.
http://www.osteoporosis.ca/english/home/default.asp?s=1

Health Canada. Seniors.
link no longer available

Abuse of Older Adults. (2005).
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/ncfv-cnivf/familyviolence/age_e.html

Calgary Health Region: Seniors Health
http://www.healthlinkalberta.ca

Calgary Seniors Health Information
http://www.calgaryarea.com/Seniors/health.htm

The City of Calgary. Seniors Programs and Services
http://content.calgary.ca/CCA/City+Living/
People+Resource/Seniors/Seniors.htm

Calgary Public Library – Resources for Seniors (link no longer available)
 

Public Health Agency of Canada. (2005). How can I best deal with the stress of being a caregiver? http://www.canadian-health-network.ca/servlet/ContentServe
r?cid=1002764&pagename=CHN-RCS%2FCHNResource%2FFAQCHNResourceTemplate&lang=En&repGroupTopic=
Seniors+FAQ&parentid=1048540759610&c=CHN
Resource&repGroupTopic=Seniors

Aging and Seniors Federal Programs
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/index_pages/govlinks.htm

Calgary Health Region. (2004). Facing loneliness as you get older.
http://www.healthlinkalberta.ca

Food Safety for Older Adults
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Health Canada. (2002). Best Practices Treatment and Rehabilitation for Seniors with Substance Use Problems. Available at http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

National Advisory Council on Aging. (2006). Social Isolation and social loneliness: Writing in Gerontology. Available at
http://www.nia.nih.gov/AboutNIA/NACA/

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