October Health – 2025 Report

65 Or Older Demographic in Canada

In Canada, for the population aged 65 or older, the leading causes of stress often include: 1. **Health Decline**: Chronic illnesses, pain, or general concerns about maintaining physical health. 2. **Financial Concerns**: Uncertainty about retirement savings, pensions, or medical costs. 3. **Social Isolation**: Loss of social connections due to retirement, reduced mobility, or the passing of loved ones. 4. **Loss of Independence**: Challenges with mobility, the need for caregiving, or transitioning to assisted living arrangements. 5. **Bereavement**: Grief from the loss of a spouse, friends, or other loved ones. Organizations like October could potentially help companies that engage with older adults, assisting with group therapy and mental health support for employees nearing or in retirement.

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How mental health affects the 65 Or Older demographic differently

Stresses Affecting the 65+ Age Group More Than Others:

  1. Health Concerns

    • Physical decline or chronic illnesses (e.g., arthritis, heart disease).
    • Fear of cognitive decline or conditions like dementia.
    • Increased medical appointments or hospital visits leading to stress.

  2. Financial Insecurity

    • Concerns about outliving retirement savings.
    • Rising costs of healthcare, housing, or assisted living.
    • Limited ability to return to work if additional income is required.

  3. Social Isolation

    • Reduced social circle due to retirement, relocation, or the loss of loved ones.
    • Less frequent contact with family or friends.
    • Loneliness contributing to depression and anxiety.

  4. Loss and Grief

    • Coping with the death of spouses, friends, or siblings.
    • Grieving loss of status or purpose after retirement.

  5. Adjustment to Retirement

    • Struggling with loss of routine and meaningful engagement.
    • Difficulty finding new hobbies or fulfilling activities.
    • Identity changes, especially for those whose careers defined them.

  6. Caregiving Responsibilities

    • Stress from caring for a spouse or family member with health issues.
    • Physical and emotional toll of caregiving with limited external support.

  7. Fear of Dependence

    • Anxiety over losing independence.
    • Fear of becoming a burden to family members.

For those facing these challenges, workplace wellness programs such as October could support pre-retirement or retired employees by offering resources like group sessions or mental health content that tackles aging-related stressors.

Data from October Health

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Proactive mental fitness for high performance staff.

Understand the stresses and workplace challenges of your staff and provide them with the tools to protect their productivity and mental health.

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