As we age, what defines a good life can vary. It might be spending time with family and friends, contributing meaningfully, traveling or pursing hobbies and interests. But among all answers there’s one thing that matters to everyone: more good years.
When it comes to healthy aging, there’s always room for improvement. And while some health practices involve effort and will power, like changing your diet or a new exercise regime, other ways of protecting your health are as simple as they are impactful.
Take staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines, for example.
COVID-19 is a Continuing Concern
The public health crisis may seem long past, but COVID-19 is here to stay. The Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP) believes it’s time for older Canadians to treat COVID-19 vaccines as a routine part of maintaining their health.
Our survey revealed key insights into how older Canadians view and manage their health in relation to COVID-19.
Here are 3 key findings from the survey
- CARP members prioritize their health and that of others.
CARP members are taking their health seriously. The survey shows that 89% believe staying current with COVID-19 vaccines is a simple yet important way to protect both themselves and others.
- 65% of members have received every COVID-19 vaccine or booster for which they were eligible.
- 80% are concerned about the risk of severe illness or hospitalization due to COVID-19.
- Even more, 88% worry about unintentionally transmitting the virus to vulnerable individuals.
- Over 80% actively encourage family and friends to stay vaccinated as well.
While COVID-19 can affect anyone, certain groups have higher risk of severe impacts (hospitalization or death), including those over age 65, those who are immunocompromised and those with chronic medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, lung disease).
The numbers may be alarming but they are worth paying attention to: more than 81% of COVID-19 deaths occur in people over age 65.
- Made in Canada matters.
CARP was interested in understanding what survey respondents believe about national vaccine self-sufficiency and vaccines made in Canada.
During the pandemic, the critical importance of citizens’ access to potentially life-saving immunizations over an extended period of time became abundantly clear.
Being self-sufficient would allow Canada to quickly produce and distribute vaccines without solely relying on international sources.
- 97% believe it’s crucial for Canada to be self-sufficient in vaccine production.
- 91% think the country should prioritize vaccines made in Canada, and 85% would prefer a Canadian-made vaccine if given the choice.
- CARP members feel strongly about the government’s continued role in ensuring access to and information about COVID-19 vaccination.
Vaccination is one of CARP’s key advocacy issues because it is essential for maintaining good health as we age. We know that one of the best ways to take control of your health, protecting both yourself and your loved ones, is to keep up to date with NACI recommended vaccinations against the big 5—COVID-19, Influenza, Pneumococcal Disease (including Pneumonia), Shingles, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Read more.
Provincial funding for and access to vaccines differs across Canada. This means that while certain vaccines may be available in a province, they may not be affordable to those who are most vulnerable. CARP believes all older Canadians should have equitable access to the most effective expert-recommended vaccines available.
Currently COVID-19 vaccines are publicly funded and available across Canada and CARP wants to keep it that way. So do CARP members:
- 95% believe their government should continue to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines/boosters are free and available to all Canadians.
The government has a key role to play in ensuring information, accessibility and affordability when it comes to COVID-19 vaccines. But confidence in government could be higher.
- Confidence levels varied across the country, with some regions feeling more assured in their governments’ efforts than others.
- Nearly 30% of respondents are NOT confident their government is doing everything it can to ensure older Canadians are aware of the ongoing need to protect against COVID-19.
- While most CARP members (69%) encountered no barriers to vaccination, some struggled with vaccine availability. As well, early 25% found it difficult to access rapid antigen tests, often using expired ones instead.
Overall Heartening Results
78% or respondents are ‘very satisfied’ with the overall experience when receiving their COVID-19 vaccine in the past year.
Overall, the survey showed that CARP members are proactive about protecting their health, following expert advice, and staying active. Nearly 2,800 respondents shared their health routines, which were as diverse as they were inspiring.
From walking and golf to art exhibits and dance classes, CARP members are finding creative ways to stay engaged and healthy.
As one respondent perfectly put it: “I enjoy life when I am in my best health.”
Your voice matters: Tell your elected officials that all NACI-recommended vaccines for older Canadians should be fully funded by the government.
Image by Kevin Seibel
