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-It is also likely that demographic shift to a retiree nation in Canada will greatly alter the structure of the health care system. It is projected that physicians will be in shortage and therefore unable to respond to the increase in demand from seniors.<ref name="Lawrence">Lawrence, D. M., (2010). Healthcare for elders in 2050. ''Generations'', 34(3), 82-85. </ref> This will probably lead to a much higher doctor to patient ratio, and will utilize the labour of nurses and nurse practitioners to administer care more often. <ref name="Lawrence"/> In order to best serve an aging population, Canada's health system will also require a great number of direct care workers such as home health aides and nurse's aides. <ref name="Seavey"/> These workers will be responsible for the day-to-day care of many seniors, and they will play an important role in Canada's healthcare system of the future. <ref name="Seavey">+It is also likely that the demographic shift to a retiree nation in Canada will greatly alter the structure of the health care system. It is projected that physicians will be in shortage and therefore unable to respond to the increase in demand from seniors.<ref name="Lawrence">Lawrence, D. M., (2010). Healthcare for elders in 2050. ''Generations'', 34(3), 82-85. </ref> This will probably lead to a much higher doctor to patient ratio, and will utilize the labour of nurses and nurse practitioners to administer care more often. <ref name="Lawrence"/> In order to best serve an aging population, Canada's health system will also require a great number of direct care workers such as home health aides and nurse's aides. <ref name="Seavey"/> These workers will be responsible for the day-to-day care of many seniors, and they will play an important role in Canada's healthcare system of the future. <ref name="Seavey">
Seavey, D. (2010). Caregivers on the front line: Building a better direct-care workforce.''Generations'', 34(4), 27-35. Seavey, D. (2010). Caregivers on the front line: Building a better direct-care workforce.''Generations'', 34(4), 27-35.
.</ref> However, this quota will not be easy to fill, as direct care workers are often overworked and underpaid. <ref name="Seavey"/> It is important to also consider that less people working will mean less taxable income contributing to the provincial and national health funds, which in turn may affect health services. This is a good illustration of the complex intersection between the high rate of societal retirement, the economy, and the functioning of social institutions. .</ref> However, this quota will not be easy to fill, as direct care workers are often overworked and underpaid. <ref name="Seavey"/> It is important to also consider that less people working will mean less taxable income contributing to the provincial and national health funds, which in turn may affect health services. This is a good illustration of the complex intersection between the high rate of societal retirement, the economy, and the functioning of social institutions.

Revision as of 09:33, 1 November 2011

Contents

Group #13 "Baby Boomers in Canada: A retiree nation"

  • 1. Kalyn Kraul
  • 2. Stephen Lachan
  • 3. Lauren Jefferies

Implications Of Aging Retiree Population on Younger Generations (Kalyn's Section)

The Canadian baby boom began in 1946 and continued though to 1964 [1] , and the magnitude of births during this time has greatly impacted various aspects of life and society in Canada [2]. According to demographic estimates, it is predicted that in 2021 more than 21% of the population will be 65 and over [3]. That means that one in five will have reached this age in just 10 years [4] [3]. At the present time, the first wave of this massive cohort is just reaching retirement age as many of them are turning 65 this year [2].

As the aging baby-boomers begin retiring, the effects on the overall economy will be substantial [1] . This is of great concern to the Canadian government, policy makers, researchers, employers and workers [4] [3]. The effects of these changes will be widespread and will impact Canadian lifestyles and policies in varying degrees [3]. Recent research has focused mainly on the baby boomers themselves. However, it is essential to investigate the ways in which these demographics will affects the younger generations as well. There are economic and social consequences of population aging that are felt by the younger generations. More specifically, there will be greater opportunities in the workplace [1] and increased pressure to look after older family members [2].

Economic Implications: Workplace

First, patterns of work and job opportunities are shifting. The first wave of baby boomers are retiring this year and do so for a number of reasons: because they wish to, health limitations, mandatory retirement, unemployment and early retirement packages [4].

According to a recent study, the sector that will be most affected by baby-boomer retirements is education [1]. This is because teachers and other people in this industry seem to retire earlier, especially those who receive full coverage after 30 years of service [1]. There will also be a quicker turnover among executive, administrative and managerial positions since 59% of workers are 45 and older [1] [4]. Other occupations, such as public administration, will also feel this impact [1]. Since the baby-boomers will be retiring from these sectors, jobs will be more readily available to younger generations and there will be less competition [4].

Also, there will be an increasing need for specialization, particularly in the health service industry [4]. As the baby-boomers age, well-trained doctors and specialists will be in high-demand [4]. As seen in this article by CTV News, the demand for such specialists will be overwhelming: Canada's aging population could run short on docs. The younger generation will need to anticipate and address the increased demand on the health care system as many new jobs are needed and created to support the aging population.

In contrast, a increasing number of older workers have no intention of retiring early and will continue to work until they are able [3]. Research has shown that the seniors that are most likely to continue working are those with more education and who receive a higher income [5]. Since transitions are complex and many seniors don't want to leave the work force completely all at once, many stay and work part-time [3]. It is important to take note of this fact because fears may be minimized as many baby-boomers choose to remain in the labour market and are able to mentor the younger generation who are just starting out [3].

Therefore, it is evident that the economic changes in the workplace have an impact on the younger generation. There will be opportunities for jobs in education and public administration with hardly any competition for these positions [4]. There will be an increased need for specialization, particularly in health services and hospitals [4]. However, these needs might possibly be buffered by the fact that some baby-boomers are choosing to remain working [3].

Social Implications: Caregiving

Another challenge facing the younger generation is the responsibility of caring for elderly parents who suffer from physical and cognitive declines such as Alzhiemers (#2). Caregivers of elderly patients or family members experience significant burdens- emotional, financial and conflict between workplace.

Looking Forward

The effects of baby-boomer retirements and the implications on the younger generations will be most felt in the upcoming decade (#7). Economic and social changes There will be a greater availability of jobs, specifically in education & transportation. Canada will also see an increased need for specialists in geriatrics. Doctors who are geared for diagnosing and caring for older patients are needed. This area of expertise will be needed in upcoming years and provides options for younger Canadians who are looking for jobs. The retirement of Canada’s boomers will begin in 2010 and continue over the next two decades (#9). Therefore, there is still time to develop policies that help accommodate and deal with this demographic trend (#9). It is important that these policies consider the ambivalence of this issue and that the needs of both the older and the younger generations are recognized and addressed. The baby boomers retirement presents a host of changes and opportunities that effect not only them but also their children and grandchildren.

Implications of an aging retiree population: The Elder Perspective (Lauren's Section)

The Aging Baby Boomer

A “baby boomer” is an individual born in the post-World War II years between 1946 and 1965. This period was marked by a rapid increase in birth rate and has caused dramatic demographic changes in Canada [6]. As the first wave of “baby boomers” (born in 1946) reach the age of retirement at 65 this year, seniors make up the fastest growing population in Canada[7]. As a result there is a growing reason for concern over the sustainability in supporting an aging population. From an elder perspective, a whole new series of unpleasant, but essential questions must be considered. These include the place of aging, type of services required through the elder years and strategies to increase the chances of living a long and healthy life. These issues are just a few of the important questions the older “baby boomers” must consider when accepting and planning for the aging process. Out of these concerns, one central issue remains constant, attaining ‘positive’, ‘active’ and ‘successful’ Quality-of-Life (QoL) into old age[8].

Quality-of-Life

Quality of Life is a concept which evaluates four measures including autonomy, control, pleasure and self-realization on a scale of degrees of satisfaction. [8]To further explore this topic, Zaninotto and colleagues [8] conducted a longitudinal study (over several years) and examined the age paths of QoL among older adults. They found that QoL was poorer in the older participants in comparison to younger individuals, and this difference in satisfaction only grew larger with age, rapidly worsening in the oldest participants. [8] Several factors contributed to this negative QoL including limiting long-standing illness, depression, education and lack of wealth. [8] This foremost issue is a source of concern in the aging boomer population. So what are the major factors Canadians need to consider to ensure positive Quality-of-Life (QoL) for an aging population?

Housing

When faced with the important decision of where to spend their later years, seniors are presented with various housing options. These options may require a move, but new trends show many retirees are choosing to remain at home [9] [8] [10] A study by Weeks and colleagues [10] examined the familial influence in the preference of future housing in Canada. The family can have a significant impact on the housing of the elderly, either by helping them age at home successfully, or by delaying or even preventing institutionalization. The study results indicate 94% of the participants had no intention of moving from their home. Canadian statistics indicate the senior population to rise to 6.7 million in 2021 and 9.2 million in 2041.[7]. Currently, Health Canada estimates 7 percent of seniors live in long term care facilities, however this number could grow to 469,000 of seniors in institutions by 2021, and 644,000 by 2041.[7]. It is vital to understand the roots of senior housing preferences (whether family, community or financially based), so appropriate planning can take place to support the housing needs of a growing senior population.[10]

Mobility

Of the critical factors that contribute to quality of life, transportation affects individuals of all ages. A person's independence is intrinsically linked to their mobility, and significantly impacts their ability to continue the interactions necessary for health and well-being.[11] When driving is no longer a safe option for seniors, reliable alternatives must be available. To be deemed a “safe” driver, an individual must demonstrate good vision in high and low contrast conditions, the ability to turn their head quickly to check mirrors and enough muscle control in the legs to perform routine pedal functions. In addition, individuals must maintain certain cognitive abilities such working memory to remember traffic laws and directions while driving, and adequate visual processing speed to quickly assess possible dangerous situations..[11] Currently there are numerous motor vehicle modifications that can assist and compensate for reduced driving abilities in the elderly. These modifications include visor extenders, seat and back cushions to help alleviate pain in the back and easy locking seat belts..[11] Safe transportation is critical for seniors to continue to engage in human interactions, and the planning of alternative means of mobility is essential in ensuring a positive quality of life for the senior population.

Positive Outlooks

As people grow older there are numerous strategies for maintaining health and personal agency. Keeping an active role in planning for the future and increasing awareness to the possible issues one faces during the aging process, will ensure a satisfactory retirement and positive outcomes in later years.

Implications of an ageing retiree population on overall society (Stephen's Section)

Since the first baby boomer was born in 1946, the group as a whole has profoundly altered the demographic landscape of Canada throughout every life stage. In 2011, the first baby boomers reached retirement age, and as this disproportionately large cohort continues to age and exit the workforce it will undoubtedly alter Canadian society in a variety of ways. Since fertility rates have greatly declined in the post-baby boom cohorts, and life expectancy is projected to keep increasing, the effect of the baby boomer generation on society as they proceed to later adulthood will be especially pronounced. Future societal change predictions and implications as a result of the increase in retirees will be reviewed -namely, the effects on the Canadian economy and pension, Healthcare services, as well as future directions and potential solutions.

Economy/ Pension

As mentioned, the baby boomers represent a disproportionately large subset of the Canadian population, and as these older adults reach retirement age it will affect the Canadian economy and workforce. More older retirees will likely be relying on government pensions, which is already approaching over-extension. [12] Exacerbating this is the fact that there will be less adults working as a result in the increase in retirees, and as such there will be less money being taxed for pension and other social programs. [13] This may result in a need to cut governmental spending and social support.[12] Such cuts may also exacerbate poverty rates among the elderly, especially those who are most vulnerable.[14]

These concerns implicate all of society, as younger generations may expect to pay more in taxes and may anticipate receiving less government support when it is time for them to reach retirement age .[15] This is likely to affect consumer spending and savings patterns.[12] Research from the Unites States has also suggested that inter-generational conflict or tension may arise as a consequence of the strain the baby boomers will place on government programs. [5] Though Canadian research on this phenomenon has failed to identify such tension patterns, it is worth considering that tension may emerge as the proportionately larger Canadian baby boomer population continues to age. [5]

Healthcare

Compared to other developed nations, Canada is a welfare state, and as such the government provides basic healthcare for all citizens. [13] As a result, the effect of the baby boomers on our health care system will also likely be quite profound. As illustrated, Canada's healthcare spending has increased steadily, and it is projected to keep increasing. [16]


Image:Total_health_expenditure_in_constant_1997_dollars.png[16]


Though one may not expect to see health care spending increase in a society with a slow growing population, however not all health dollars are spent equally across age groups. [16] As Image 2 illustrates, older adults use much more health services. [16] This is not surprising, as older adults are more likely to suffer chronic illness and disability, and are also more likely to require extensive health care during the end of life.

Image:Spending_on_health_care_per_capita_by_age_group.png[16]



It is also likely that the demographic shift to a retiree nation in Canada will greatly alter the structure of the health care system. It is projected that physicians will be in shortage and therefore unable to respond to the increase in demand from seniors.[17] This will probably lead to a much higher doctor to patient ratio, and will utilize the labour of nurses and nurse practitioners to administer care more often. [17] In order to best serve an aging population, Canada's health system will also require a great number of direct care workers such as home health aides and nurse's aides. [18] These workers will be responsible for the day-to-day care of many seniors, and they will play an important role in Canada's healthcare system of the future. [18] However, this quota will not be easy to fill, as direct care workers are often overworked and underpaid. [18] It is important to also consider that less people working will mean less taxable income contributing to the provincial and national health funds, which in turn may affect health services. This is a good illustration of the complex intersection between the high rate of societal retirement, the economy, and the functioning of social institutions.

Potential Responses

Several solutions have been proposed to help offset the effects of the baby boomer generation leaving the workforce during retirement. One of which is an increase in the retirement age, which would require older persons to work for more years, therefore decreasing the amount of years on pension, and increasing the amount of revenue coming in to the government.[13] This may be a viable way to capitalize from increased life expectancy.Great strides are expected to be made in North American medicine in the coming decades, and it has been suggested that healthcare advances will increase the average life expectancy to over 80 years for males and 86 for females. [12] The pension age of 65 was originally designated during a period in which relatively few survived into their 70's. [12] In modern society most can expect to live well into their 70's and even 80's, thus raising the age of retirement may restore the pension system to a relative equilibrium. However, not all view this as an ideal solution, as it may force unskilled older workers into minimum wage or high stress service jobs, profoundly diminishing the quality of life for many seniors. [14][19]

Canada may also try to increase acceptance of skilled immigrants, which would require dramatic changes to immigration policies. [20] Such changes would ideally try to reduce the hundreds of thousands of backed up perminant immigration applications and nearly five year waiting periods, and balance grants of residency on the basis of labour skills and economic need, as opposed to soley education and family ties. [20]

Notes and References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 Dohm, A. (2000). Gauging the labor force effects of retiring baby-boomers. Monthly Labour Review, 17-26.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Black, S., Gauthier, S., Dalziel, W. et. al. (2009). Canadian Alzheimer’s disease caregiver survey: baby-boomer caregivers and burden of care. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 25, 807-813.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 Duchesne, D. (2004). Seniors at work. Perspectives on Labour and Income, 5(2), 5-27.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 England, K. (2010). Home, work and the shifting geographies of care. Ethics, Place and Environment, 13(2), 131-150.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 Foot, D.K. (2008). Some economic and social consequences of population aging. Canadian Priorities Agenda, 7, 1-5.
  6. ↑ Baby boom.(2011).Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th Edition, 1.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Hawalshka, D.(2004).Rage Against the Dark. Maclean’s, 117 (36/37), 82-84.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 Zaninotto, P., Falaschetti, E., & Sacker, A. (2009). Age trajectories of quality of life among older adults: results from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Quality Of Life Research, 18(10), 1301-1309. doi:10.1007/s11136-009-9543-6
  9. ↑ Castaldo, J. (2006). WHAT HOMES DO RETIREES WANT?. Canadian Business, 79(14/15), 46-47.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 Weeks, L., Branton, O., & Nilsson, T. (2005). The influence of the family on the future housing preferences of seniors in Canada. Housin, Care and Support, 8(2), 29-34.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 Dickerson, A. E., Molnar, L. J., Eby, D. W., Adler, G., Bédard, M., Berg-Weger, M., & ... Trujiilo, L. (2007). Transportation and Aging: A Research Agenda for Advancing Safe Mobility. Gerontologist, 47(5), 578-590.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4 Harper, S. (2010) The capacity of social security and health care institutions to adapt to an ageing world. International Social Security Review, 63, 177-196.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 Kim, K., & Lee, Y. (2008). A qualitative comparative analysis of strategies for an ageing society, with special reference to pension and employment policies. International Journal of Social Welfare, 17, 225-235.
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Browdie, R. (2010). The future of aging services in America. Generations, 34(3),56-60.
  15. ↑ Hirazawa, M., Kitaura, K., & Yakita, A. (2010). Aging, fertility, social security and political equilibrium. The Journal of Population Economics, 23, 559-569.
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 16.2 16.3 16.4 Canadian Institute for Health Information (2009),National Health Expenditure Trends, Ottawa, ON: CIHI.
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 Lawrence, D. M., (2010). Healthcare for elders in 2050. Generations, 34(3), 82-85.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 18.2 Seavey, D. (2010). Caregivers on the front line: Building a better direct-care workforce.Generations, 34(4), 27-35. .
  19. ↑ Powell, J. L. (2010).The power of global aging. Ageing International, 35 1-14.
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 Olijnyk, Z. (2007). Give us your skilled. Canadian Business, 80(20), 78-85.
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