Analysis

Using data from the 2007 General Social Survey, this article investigates new national level data on caregiving. It is well established that family and friends provide care to ailing seniors. Focusing on caregivers aged 45 and over, the article examines whether family and friend care differs by the type of health problem the senior has (be it physical or mental), or whether the care was provided to a senior living in a private household or care facility. We also look at who provides care to seniors, which tasks are provided and how often, how caregivers cope, and where they turn in order to seek support. Included is a profile of the seniors 65 years and over with a long-term health problem who were receiving care from these caregivers.

After many years of public discussion about Canada's aging population, the leading edge of the baby boom generation is now on the cusp of retirement. Focusing on Canadians aged 45 to 59, this article examines the age at which individuals intend to retire, the certainty of their plans, and their expectations regarding their retirement income. Evidence from the 2007 General Social Survey is used to show how retirement plans and expectations are related to demographic, employment and financial characteristics.

Do Canadians have the information they need to plan for retirement? Drawing on data from the 2007 General Social survey, this article examines the "informational resources" of Canadians aged 45 to 59. While most individuals receive financial advice, understand the basic structure of their pension, and say they understand Canada's public retirement income programs, significant proportions do not. The characteristics associated with differences in this regard are examined.

Using data from the 2007 General Social Survey, this article investigates new national level data on caregiving. It is well established that family and friends provide care to ailing seniors. Focusing on caregivers aged 45 and over, the article examines whether family and friend care differs by the type of health problem the senior has (be it physical or mental), or whether the care was provided to a senior living in a private household or care facility. We also look at who provides care to seniors, which tasks are provided and how often, how caregivers cope, and where they turn in order to seek support. Included is a profile of the seniors 65 years and over with a long-term health problem who were receiving care from these caregivers.

After many years of public discussion about Canada's aging population, the leading edge of the baby boom generation is now on the cusp of retirement. Focusing on Canadians aged 45 to 59, this article examines the age at which individuals intend to retire, the certainty of their plans, and their expectations regarding their retirement income. Evidence from the 2007 General Social Survey is used to show how retirement plans and expectations are related to demographic, employment and financial characteristics.

Do Canadians have the information they need to plan for retirement? Drawing on data from the 2007 General Social survey, this article examines the "informational resources" of Canadians aged 45 to 59. While most individuals receive financial advice, understand the basic structure of their pension, and say they understand Canada's public retirement income programs, significant proportions do not. The characteristics associated with differences in this regard are examined.