Care Counts: Care receivers in Canada, 2018
Archived Content
Information identified as archived is provided for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Please "contact us" to request a format other than those available.
Description: Care Counts: Care receivers in Canada, 2018
Care Counts: Care receivers in Canada, 2018
Three million people in Canada, or approximately 10% of the population, received care from a family member or friend for a long-term health condition, a physical or mental disability or problems related to aging.
Women represented the majority of care receivers in Canada.
- Women: 55%
- Men: 45%
Almost 4 in 10 care recipients were over the age of 65.
Overall, mental illness was the most commonly cited reason for receiving care (18%).
For individuals 65 years and over, problems related to aging was the most common reason for receiving care (21%).
Nearly 9 in 10 care recipients received care from family or friends.
- Paid/professional help: 11%
- Unpaid/help from family or friends: 39%
- Both: 50%
Typically, care receivers had about 7 hours of help per week from family or friends, and about 2 hours of professional care.
More than 8 in 10 care receivers (81%) were satisfied with the balance of help from family, friends and professionals. Those who were dissatisfied generally wanted more professional help.
Note: Care receivers are defined as individuals aged 15 years and older who receive help or care for a long-term health condition, a physical or mental disability, or problems related to aging.
Source: Statistics Canada, General Social Survey – Caregiving and Care Receiving, 2018.
- Date modified: