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April 2026
From April 14 to 24, 2026, CARP National launched our Omnibus Poll to better understand the issues that matter most to older Canadians. With 7,883 respondents from across the country, the results send a clear message: seniors are increasingly concerned about access to healthcare, the ability to age with dignity, and their financial security.
These findings will play an essential role in shaping CARP’s upcoming federal pre-budget submission, as well as guiding our advocacy efforts in the months ahead.
Healthcare Access Emerges as the Top Concern
An overwhelming 83.12% of respondents strongly agree that improving access to primary care, including family doctors and nurse practitioners, must be a top priority. Close behind, 79.85% strongly agree that reducing wait times for specialists, diagnostic imaging, and procedures is essential.
However, member feedback reveals a deeper level to this issue; while some Canadians may be considered “attached to primary care”, many do not feel they have reliable, ongoing access to a provider they know and trust. In practice, access does not always translate into meaningful care.
“Our members are telling us clearly that access to care is not just about being counted in the system- it is about being able to see a provider when you need one,” said Anthony Quinn, President of CARP. “For too many older Canadians, this is simply not happening today.”
CARP members shared real frustrations about delays and barriers to care, with many calling for shorter wait times, improved system efficiency, and a great need for increased investment in healthcare professionals. The message is clear: for many seniors, timely access to care is not guaranteed.
A System Under Strain
Survey results also show broader concerns about Canada’s healthcare systems. Members highlighted issues such as overcrowded hospitals, staffing shortages, and inefficient patient flow between services. There is also a growing perception that hospitals are being used as a fallback option, with individuals turning to emergency departments when other parts of the system are inaccessible.
“What we see is a system under strain at every level,” Quinn added. “When primary care is not accessible, the pressure shifts to emergency departments and hospitals, creating a ripple effect across the entire system.”
Members consistently pointed to the need for:
- More doctors, nurses, and frontline staff
- Better coordination between services
- Reduced barriers for internationally trained healthcare professionals
Aging at Home: A Priority Without Enough Support
Nearly 75.05% of respondents strongly agree that aging at home should be a key focus, including better access to home care services, stronger caregiver support, and improved regulations.
Despite this strong support, many respondents indicated that aging at home is not a viable choice due to limited services and inconsistent support by the government, such as home care personnel availability, lack of post-hospital support, and difficulty accessing services when they are most needed. Members emphasized the need for greater investment in home care to help seniors remain independent for as long as possible while also reducing pressure on hospitals and long-term care facilities.
This highlights a critical disconnect: aging at home is widely supported, but not yet fully enabled and supported by the current system.
Long-Term Care: Beyond Bed Availability
75.07% of respondents strongly agree that long-term care (LTC) must be a priority, including increasing bed availability and strengthening standards to ensure safe, high-quality, and patient-centred environments. Concerns were raised about the quality of care, traditions between the hospital and LTC, and the lack of appropriate options for seniors who cannot safely return home.
Financial Security Remains a Core Concern
Financial stability continues to be a major issue, with 73.39% of respondents strongly agreeing that protecting and enhancing Old Age Security (OAS) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is critical.
Many members also pointed to rising costs of living, property taxes, and financial pressures faced by those on fixed incomes. These economic challenges often compound health and housing issues, making it more difficult for seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life.
“Financial security underpins everything, from health to housing to independence,” Quinn noted. “Protecting retirement income and addressing affordability must remain a priority for governments.”
A Clear Call to Action
Across all responses, one theme stands out: Canada’s systems are not keeping pace with the needs of an aging population.
CARP members continue to call for:
- Improved access to primary care
- Reduced wait times across the healthcare system
- Stronger support for aging at home
- Meaningful improvements in long-term care
- Enhanced financial protections for seniors
These findings will directly inform CARP’s advocacy, including our federal pre-budget submission for 2026. As Canada’s population continues to age, it is essential that governments take meaningful action to ensure older adults can access the care, support, and financial security they need to age with dignity.
CARP will continue to advocate for policies that enable Canadians to age with dignity, independence, and confidence.
