Issue 79 – 25, December 7,, 2025
Housing Challenges for Older Adults
The Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors (FPT Seniors Forum) back in 2021 approved “Supportive Housing for a Diverse Seniors Population” as a key priority of work for its 2022-2025 work cycle. To reinforce this theme as a crucial priority, Employment and Social Development Canada commissioned a report on behalf of the FPT Seniors Forum to examine the core housing needs, housing conditions and challenges of diverse older adults in Canada.
As Canada’s population ages, more seniors are facing serious housing challenges. Nearly 1 in 5 Canadians (about 19%) are 65 or older, and this number is expected to grow to about 1 in 4 by 2043. Many of these seniors live in homes that are either too expensive, not suitable for their needs, or in poor condition. These issues impact their safety, independence, and quality of life.
One way to measure housing problems is through what’s called “core housing need.” This means a home that either costs more than 30% of a person’s income, doesn’t have enough bedrooms or too many for the household, or needs major repairs to be safe and livable. Many seniors living in rental homes, especially those in subsidized housing, face these issues regularly.
The challenges faced by older adults are varied. Many struggle with the high costs of their homes, which can take up most of their income. Others live in homes that are overcrowded, old, or damaged, making daily life more difficult. Living alone increases feelings of loneliness and can make it harder to do everyday activities like shopping, cleaning, or getting medical help. Racialized seniors and Indigenous elders often face additional obstacles, such as living in overcrowded homes or lacking housing options that respect their cultural traditions. Seniors living in rural or remote areas may find it difficult to access healthcare, transportation, banking and community services, which can further limit their independence and well-being.
Most seniors in Canada live in private homes, like single-family houses or small apartments, but some reside in assisted living facilities or nursing homes where they can receive help with daily tasks. Many seniors prefer to “age in place”, that is, to stay in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. However, staying in the same place depends heavily on the availability of accessible, affordable, and safe housing. Homes should be designed or modified to accommodate health issues or mobility challenges, with features like ramps and wider doorways, so seniors can live comfortably and safely.
Housing for diverse groups of seniors also presents unique challenges. Immigrant seniors, for example, often face language barriers that make it harder to find suitable housing or access services. Indigenous elders, especially those living in remote northern communities, may have to deal with overcrowded homes or long distances from healthcare facilities. Additionally, seniors who identify as LGBT+ can experience discrimination or lack inclusive housing options, which can impact their safety and well-being.
The COVID-19 pandemic worsened many of these issues. Lockdowns and restrictions increased feelings of loneliness among seniors, especially those living alone or in long-term care facilities. Seniors with strong social connections or living in community settings generally fared better during this difficult time. Many received extra financial support from government programs, which helped some with housing costs. However, this assistance sometimes made it harder for some seniors to qualify for other types of social support later.
To address these challenges, significant efforts are needed. Building more affordable, accessible, and culturally respectful housing is essential. Homes should be designed or adapted so that seniors can live independently for as long as they wish, close to healthcare, shops, parks, and loved ones. Governments and communities must work together to develop diverse housing options tailored to the needs of all seniors, including Indigenous, immigrant, and LGBT+ populations.
Planning for better housing today is vital for ensuring that seniors can live safely, comfortably, and with dignity in their communities. As the number of older adults continues to grow, investing in suitable housing will help reduce reliance on costly healthcare and long-term care facilities, ultimately supporting healthier, happier aging for everyone.
Read more - Housing supply needs and challenges for a diverse seniors population in Canada - Canada.ca
A Big Win for Workers and Climate Justice at COP30
At the recent climate talks known as COP30, an important decision was made that could change how the world fights climate change. For the first time ever, workers and their unions will have a formal role in shaping climate policies through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This is a major step forward for workers and for climate justice.
The Just Transition agreement means that workers' rights, decent jobs, social protections, and fairness are now recognized as part of climate action. It shows that protecting workers and their communities is essential when moving towards cleaner energy and reducing pollution. This agreement was made after many years of efforts by trade unions and groups fighting for workers’ rights, environmental justice, women, youth, and Indigenous peoples.
Before this, workers and unions didn’t have a formal voice in climate policies at the global level. Now, they will be included in decisions, which helps ensure that climate solutions are fair and support good jobs. ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle called it a "decisive win" for working people everywhere, especially those in industries going through big changes.
While this new agreement is a big win, COP30 still fell short in many areas. Countries did not agree on a clear plan to stop using fossil fuels in a fair way. There was no strong plan to help workers and communities affected by climate change or to close the gap between climate promises and real action. Many experts say that the goals for reducing pollution and helping vulnerable countries are still far from being achieved.
Despite the shortcomings, labour rights, decent work, and social protections are now part of the climate transition plan. The International Labour Organization (ILO) guidelines for just transition are recognized as a foundation for action. The gender action plan was renewed, with a focus on fair and equal treatment of women in climate policies.
This new agreement gives unions and workers a stronger voice in how climate policies are made and implemented. It means that governments and international organizations must include workers’ opinions and protect their rights. This can lead to more good jobs in renewable energy and a fairer transition away from polluting industries.
Now, unions and workers need to push for these new rules to be put into action. They must work to make sure that climate policies support fair wages, social protections, and job security. They also need to be part of decisions about funding and programs to help workers during the transition.
The success at COP30 shows that workers and their unions are now recognized as key players in climate action. This historic step helps ensure that fighting climate change also means fighting for fair and decent jobs. While there are still challenges ahead, this agreement is a big move toward a more just and sustainable future for everyone.
Read more - en__cop30_demands_2025.pdf