This article points out there are ways to update the definition of old age that would have clear social and economic benefits.
Although mandatory retirement at age 65 was eliminated more than a decade ago, laws and public policy, including Statistics Canada definitions, continue to assume that everyone retires at 65.
A revised conception and modern definition of old age would:
- decrease the number of people classified as ‘old’
- more accurately reflect the total number of people in Canada’s working age population
- mitigate stereotypes of older workers and ageism
- prod governments to reform outdated laws
- provide a boost to the economy often facing worker shortages
Published By: The Conversation Author: Thomas Klassen, Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, York University
Publication Date: May 23, 2022
Click here to access Antiquated thinking about old age hinders Canada’s economic and social development
Click here to see the article in The Conversation
