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Poverty reduction
Older adults often live on fixed incomes, which can be a significant challenge, particularly when faced with increases in the cost of living, or with other unexpected costs like auto repairs. These financial pressures may be alleviated through various government programs. Read more in our resources below about how we can strengthen financial supports for current and future older adults to reduce the risk of living in poverty.
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Rural and Tribal Elder Justice Resource Guide
The United States Department of JusticeTribal and rural lands are home to many older adults. In the United States, the Department of Justice and Department of Agriculture teamed up to address issues of elder abuse in rural and tribal areas. This resource contains information about elder abuse and links to useful external resources for tribal elders and rural older adults. Read this resource to learn more. -
Financial education may have a positive impact on savings behaviours and record keeping
Policy Research Working Paper (2014) -
Why Are Older Adults at Risk for Food Insecurity? Raising Awareness on World Food Day
Institute on AgingMany older adults face food insecurity and daily hunger. Read this resource to learn about why older adults are going hungry and what can be done to fight this issue. -
Changing population age structures and sustainable development
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsPopulation growth and development affect each other. The UN's Commission on Population and Development helps take on the challenges of population growth. Watch this video to learn more about what this UN Commission does. -
The future is now! Global Sustainable Development Report 2019
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsScience is an important part of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We must support scientific research to help respond to our changing world. -
Employment Support
Homeless HubPeople of all ages may experience homelessness which makes finding employment hard due to barriers such as limited access to clean clothes, a telephone, the internet and transportation issues. Currently there are very few services and social support available to help these people in need. -
Taking SS Early Retirement: Weigh The Pitfalls First
National Council on Aging (US)Learn about the benefits and disadvantages of taking pension money out early as social security during retirement. -
9 Free Resources for Managing Your Money
National Council on Aging (US)Use this resource to gain access to a variety of tools that an help you plan financially for your future. Consider using online resources to understand your finances and be able to make informed decisions. -
Thinking about when you'll claim Social Security benefits is time well spent
National Council on Aging (US)This resource describes Social Security Benefits and when seniors can claim this money. Learn about the best time to claim these benefits using evidence from financial literature. -
Your Money, Your Goals – Overcoming Barriers Through Financial Empowerment
National Council on Aging (US)This resource describes the barriers that seniors face when making financial decisions such as financial abuse, economic barriers and minority challenges. Learn how the National Indian Council on Aging is helping elders overcome these barriers. -
Economic Security: Tools for Elder Hispanics
National Council on Aging (US)This resource describes how hispanic seniors are at a greater risk for poverty and the barriers that prevent them from retiring on time. Use this resource to learn tips on how to achieve financial security using online tools. -
How Financial Counseling Can Help You
National Council on Aging (US)Use this resource to learn more about how to overcome personal debt after retirement and how to spot scams and bad credit counselling agencies. -
Considering Tapping Your Home Equity? Compare Your Options First
National Council on Aging (US)Use this resource to learn more about your options if you are considering using your home equity as retirement income. -
Dealing with Debt: Debt levels for Canadian Seniors Growing
SeniorsZenUse this resource to learn how the seniors of this generation are carrying more debt than ever and tips on how to overcome this debt. -
Canada's financial literacy blog
Financial Consumer Agency of CanadaFinancial literacy involves knowledge and skills on how to manage money. Access this resource for information from experts on various financial topics. -
Canadian Financial Literacy Database
Financial Consumer Agency of CanadaThis resource is a database with information about financial literacy. Access this resource to learn about banking, fraud, insurance, taxes, and more. -
Financial Life Stages
Canadian Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC)Older Canadians rely the most on their savings. They should know how the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) protects their savings. Use these infographics to learn about the financial situation, and thoughts on savings protection, of older Canadians at the pre-retired, retired, and 75+ stages. -
‘Urban renaissance’ policies may negatively affect low-income residents, including older adults, living in urban areas
European Journal of Housing Policy (2004) -
Financial literacy self-assessment quiz
Financial Consumer Agency of CanadaAfter you have learned about financial literacy, take this fun quiz to test your knowledge! -
Managing multiple financial priorities
Financial Consumer Agency of CanadaIt may be difficult to manage your budget with multiple priorities. Access this resource for information on your current expenses and potential future expenses. -
Income Supports
Office of the Senior Advocate BCThere are federal and provincial financial supports available for older adults. You can get help meeting your medical, housing, and transportation financing needs. Read this resource to learn more about these supports. -
A Comprehensive Guide to Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Living Expenses
Senior livingAs you age, you will have to make several financial decisions. Be prepared to take on certain important expenses such as changes in housing or your health condition. Read this resource to know what to expect financially as you age. -
What financial assistance is available for seniors?
Settlement.OrgOlder adult newcomers to Canada can access financial assistance programs from the government. You need to meet certain age, residency status, and contribution requirements. You can find more information about these programs in this resource and learn how to get additional help. -
10 Steps to Your Ultimate Retirement
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) HealthHere are 10 tips to help prepare for a retirement you want. Learn how to save money and increase your financial returns. Read this resource to learn more. -
Creating a Caregiving Plan When You Have No One to Take Care of You
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) HealthElder orphans or solo seniors describe older adults who do not have close friends or family on whom they can rely for their caregiving needs. You will need to plan for your legal and financial concerns early on but you are not alone. Read this resource for guidance on how to prepare. -
A Guide To Meal Delivery
Aging in placeNutrition needs change as you age and so can your ability to meet your nutrition goals. There are many tools available that can help you meet your needs. Some of these tools include apps and delivery services that can help you do your groceries and plan your meals. Read this resource to learn about these tools and more. -
Cohousing & Sustainability
Canadian Cohousing NetworkCohousing has many benefits for seniors as well as for the environment, economics and social sustainability. Read this resource to learn how cohousing can improve the lives of everyone in the community. -
Senior Cohousing: Affordable Housing for Aging in Place
Canadian Cohousing NetworkRead this resource to understand why many Canadian seniors are choosing to live in cohousing. This type of housing allows older adults to live independently while saving money, improving their social life and being more environmentally friendly. -
A Community for Proactive Adults: What Is Senior Cohousing?
Canadian Cohousing NetworkCo-housing aims to create mindful, creative, and connected communities. These communities began in Denmark and are spreading around the world. Read this resource to learn more. -
Affordable housing programs
Government of AlbertaAffordable housing programs helps provide housing options for people and their families with special needs. More information on rent supplement programs is also provided. Read this resource to learn how to apply. -
Seniors' Guide 2015/2016
Government of Manitoba - Health, Seniors and Active LivingUse this resource to find many healthy aging resources in Manitoba. You can learn about the many health, recreational, and financial supports in your community. Read this guide to learn more. -
Continuing Care in Indigenous Communities: Guidebook
Alberta Health ServicesThere are several living, health, and financial continuing care supports available for you in Indigenous communities in Alberta. Read this resource to learn more. -
Senior Living Aids and Assistive Technology Devices
Senior livingAssistive technology devices (ATDs) can help older adults maintain their independence and live more fully. ATDs include mobility devices, communication tools, and more. Read this resource to learn more about the different types of ATDs and how to determine and pay for the one you need. -
Easy Budget-Friendly Meals
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) HealthRead this resource to learn about the obstacles that seniors face when trying to eat healthy meals and stay engaged in the cooking process. Lack of food security due to increasing produce prices and the loss of motivation to cook for one person can lead to serious health problems in seniors. -
Senior housing and supportive services
Grantmakers in AgingThe need for affordable and supportive housing grows as seniors rely on retirement savings as their income. Read this resource to learn about the foundations that are helping to alleviate these needs and for more resources on this topic. -
Healthy Ageing and the Sustainable Development Goals
WHO AgeingBy 2050, the world's population of people over 60 will double. It is important to create a sustainable future that supports healthy aging. -
Leave no one behind toolkit
BondSustainable development should help lift everyone - no matter their social status or age. The "Leave No One Behind" commitment promises to make sure this comes true. Learn more about what steps are being taken around the world so no one is left behind. -
Can the SDGs really transform our world?
BondThe UK was an important part in the development of the Sustainable Development Goals, but has since fallen behind. Non-governmental organizations can encourage the UK to make sure no one is left behind when implementing the sustainable development goals. Listen to this podcast to learn more. -
Stepping up to our diversity and inclusion challenge
BondNon-governmental organizations (NGOs) help improve human rights around the world, but there is a lot to be done to increase representation of gender, race, disability, and sexuaility in UK based NGOs. Learn more about what NGOs are doing to increase diversity in their workforces. -
Do you know all 17 SDGs?
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsThe Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 goals to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure all people enjoy peace and prosperity. Watch this short video to learn about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and their impact. -
The United Nations Sustainable Development Summit: 17 Goals to Transform Our World
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsThe Sustainable Development Goals are 17 goals to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change. They were agreed upon by 193 countries. Learn more about the ways in which these goals hope to build a sustainable future. -
The lazy person's guide to saving the world
United Nations: Sustainable Development goalsThe Sustainable Development Goals can be achieved with the help of everyday people! Here are some things that you can do from your couch, your home, your neighbourhood, and workplace, to make the world a better place! -
Crowdfunding: A Financial Resource for Seniors and Their Caregivers
Aging CareUse this resource to learn more about how crowdfunding is becoming a popular method of fundraising money. Learn how seniors and caregivers can benefit from this growing trend. -
Elders Should Exercise Caution Before Turning to Payday Loans
Aging CareUse this resource to learn about payday loans and the risks that come along with using them for everyday expenses. The resource also explains how dangerous theses loans can be for the elderly. -
You Gave, Now Save Guide to Benefits
National Council on Aging (US)Use this guide as a general guide for seniors and learn about housing assistance, transportation, food assistance, health and prescription information and many other subjects related to senior wellbeing. Links to other websites are also provided. -
How to trace lost money
Age UKThis resource explains how seniors can trace back lost money and tips on how to prevent this from happening again in the future. Watch a short video and learn more about ways money can get lost. -
Financial jargon checker
Age UKThis resource provides a long list of easy to understand definitions of financial terms for seniors to use to make informed decisions about their finances. -
Debt advice
Age UKUse this resource for debt advice and to answer all your questions about debt in old age. Some examples of issues addressed include when to seek help with debt, who to trust, what debt to pay first and where to go for free help. -
8 ways to make the most of your savings
Age UKUse this resource to make the most of your life long savings. Learn tips on how to maximize savings while also staying informed about your finances. -
Save money on your energy bills
Age UKUse this resource to learn more about ways to save money on energy bills every month by making changes to your living room, kitchen or bathroom. -
Save on water bills
Age UKUse this resource to learn more about ways to save money on water bills every month by making changes to your kitchen, bathroom or in the garden. Consider looking into discounts you can apply for to reduce your monthly bills. -
Income Security Programs
British Columbia Family & Social SupportsUse this resource to learn more about government income security programs for seniors who need help maintaining a good quality of life. Links to government resources are also provided. -
Will I receive financial assistance from the government when I retire?
Settlement.OrgThis resource describes government pension benefit programs and who is eligible to apply for them. Other links are also provided for seniors who want more information about pension plans. -
Financial Planning For the Elderly
Elder Care ABC blogLearn how a financial planner can help you understand your financial decisions and assess your needs and resources. -
Legal Health Checks: Your Retirement Income
ClickLawThis resource describes what income you can expect to receive after you retire other than your own savings. Be informed about your rights and make use of these programs. -
Information for seniors about benefits, services, and planning for the future
ClickLawThis resource is for people aged 60 or older and describes benefits, services and other programs they are eligible to receive in British Columbia. -
5 reasons to open an RRSP
Get Smarter About MoneyIf you are planning on opening an RRSP account, use this resource to understand what exactly an RRSP account is and how it can benefit you financially in the future. -
3 types of RRSPs
Get Smarter About MoneyIf you are planning on opening an RRSP account, use this resource to understand the difference between the three types of accounts; individual, spousal and group RRSPs. -
Opening an RRSP
Get Smarter About MoneyIf you are planning on opening an RRSP account, use this resource to guide you through the process and follow their guidelines to ensure you are fully prepared. -
Reverse mortgages
Seniors First BCUse this resource to learn what a reverse mortgage is and its benefits and disadvantages. Learn some tips from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada as well. -
Unlocking Pension funds due to financial hardship
Retire HappyLearn more about when and how you should unlock some of your pension funds in the case of financial hardship. Use this resource to explore your options and for a step by step guide on how to proceed with releasing your money. -
Pensions in Canada: Defined Benefit vs Defined Contribution
Retire HappyLearn more about the difference between defined benefit and defined contribution when it comes to pensions in Canada. Use this resource to keep updated on your retirement money. -
Don’t enhance CPP, Leave the CPP alone!
Retire HappyUse this resource to learn more about why not doubling the Canada pension Plan (CPP) is actually a good thing for retirees. Become more financially literate and read more about alternative savings plans. -
PRPPs are the future of pension reform
Retire HappyLearn more about PRPPs (Pooled Registered Pension Plan) and how it can affect your retired life. If you are a small business owner or self-employed, use this resource to stay updated on current government financial programs. -
Income Options for Registered Retirement Plans
Retire HappyLearn more about when and how you should convert you RRSPs into income and which income option will benefit you the most. Use this resource to also learn the rules when it comes to converting pension money into income. -
3 More Costly Pension Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Retire HappyLearn about mistakes seniors make when it comes to their pensions and use this resource to learn ways to avoid them. Some example scenarios are given to make it easier to understand. -
3 Costly Pension Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Retire HappyLearn about mistakes seniors make when it comes to their pensions and use this resource to learn ways to avoid them. Some example scenarios are given to make it easier to understand. -
Maximizing Your Income in Retirement
Retire HappyLearn about ways you can maximize your income during retirement by claiming your CPP (Canada Pension Plan) early, splitting your CPP or your pension. Use this resource to understand your options when it comes to your savings. -
Extreme mortgage burning: Pay your mortgage off early, save thousands
Retire HappyRead one man’s story on how he paid off his mortgage in only 3 years and learn some tips on how you could pay off your mortgage early and enjoy your later years worry free. -
How to Pay Debts Faster and Easier as a Retiree
Retired BrainsLearn some tips on how to pay debt faster after retirement by getting a debt consolidation loan, cutting your credit, securing alternative income sources and creating a strict budget. -
The Best Financial Ideas for Retirees
Retired BrainsConsider new ways to stay financially active during retirement by starting up a small business, buying bonds or investing in stocks. These are all great ways for seniors to remain occupied and achieve financial goals. -
Paying for Long-Term Care: How to Overcome this Costly Hurdle to Safeguard Your Future
Senior HomesUse this resource to plan ahead and save for future long term care living arrangements using government services, insurance options and veteran benefits. These tips can help you and your loved ones meet your future financial needs. -
Federal Income Support programs
Office of the Senior Advocate AlbertaUse this resource to learn more about government support programs for seniors who need financial help. Links to government websites are also provided. -
Seniors: Enjoy Your Golden Years with These Tax Credits and Benefits
Government of Canada - BenefitsLearn about all the government benefits and tax credits you are eligible for as a senior living in Canada. -
Public Pensions
Government of Canada - BenefitsUse this resource to explore pension programs offered by the government of Canada and access additional resources related to this topic. -
How RRSPs work
Get Smarter About MoneyLearn the special tax advantages that come along with RRSPs and the types of investments that you can hold in an RRSP. -
RRSP fees
Get Smarter About MoneyIf you are planning on opening an RRSP account, use this resource to learn about fees that you may be charged and questions you should ask. -
Veterans Affairs Disability Benefits
Veterans Affairs CanadaIf you have a service related disability, use this resource to see what benefits you are eligible for and learn about the two types of benefits that the government of Canada offers; disability pensions and awards. -
Rapid Re-Housing
Homeless HubLearn what rapid re-housing is and how it helps families and individuals who are not part of traditional housing programs. Rapid re-housing is geared towards those who are experiencing transitional or periodic homelessness. -
Rent Supplements
Homeless HubRead about one solution to poverty known as rent supplements where the government funds rent payments in order to allow families to live in affordable housing. -
Affordable Housing
Homeless HubLearn about the state of affordable housing in Canada and the effect of the cancellation of the federal social housing program has had on housing. -
Housing First
Homeless HubUse this resource and the supplementary video to learn about the housing first program that aims to give homeless individuals a place to live then follows up with additional supports and services as needed. -
Transitional Housing
Homeless HubUse this resource to learn more about transitional housing programs and why the temporary nature of this accommodation can be extremely beneficial to the homeless community. -
Permanent Supportive/ Supported Housing
Homeless HubUse this resource to learn more about permanent supportive housing programs and when this type of program is appropriate. See attached further readings for more information. -
Cost analysis of homelessness
Homeless HubRead the recent cost analysis of homelessness in Canada and use this resource to understand the impact this problem has on our society. -
Income Supports
Homeless HubLearn more about social and financial programs that are offered for the homeless in order to help them maintain access to a reliable income. -
Poverty
Homeless HubUse this resource to learn more about poverty and how it can change every aspect of someone's life. Also learn about the factors that increase poverty in Canada and why a solution is not so easy to implement. -
How much you need to save for retirement
Get Smarter About MoneyUse this resource as a guide for saving for retirement and learn about ways to maximize savings and how much you should save for the future. -
Ways to save for retirement
Get Smarter About MoneyUse this resource to learn the three main ways to save for retirement in Canada and use the attached resources for more information. -
Government benefits (CPP, OAS, GIS)
Get Smarter About MoneyUse this resource to learn about the main government benefits that seniors in Canada are eligible for and how they can help you financially. -
Getting retirement income from your RRSP
Get Smarter About MoneyLearn about your options when converting RRSP money into retirement income and use this resource to choose the best option for you and your family. -
Housing options for seniors
Health CanadaLearn about housing options for seniors, average cost of housing programs and budgeting to your needs. This resource links to programs across provinces in Canada. -
Evictions Planning and Prevention
Homeless HubThis resource defines homelessness as a combination of low income, unstable housing, and lack of health as well as social supports. Learn about issues homeless individuals face and it’s impact on society. -
NIMBY (Not In My Backyard)
Homeless HubThis resource discusses how residents of neighbourhoods do not want affordable housing development in their area because they fear there will be increased violence and crime. -
What every older Canadian should know about financial planning
Employment and Social Development CanadaFinancial planning is important as you get older and face changes such as retirement. Use this resource to learn about making a financial plan based on your current income and expenses, and where you want to be in the future. -
Disability lens evaluation of four provincial poverty reduction strategies: Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia
Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD)Persons with disabilities are more likely to be unemployed and in poverty than their healthier counterparts. Read this resource for information on poverty reduction strategies for Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia. -
Mortgage Fraud
Canada Mortgage and Housing CorporationIn Canada, seniors are most often the victims of fraud and financial abuse. Use this resource to learn about how to recognize, protect yourself against, and report these crimes. -
Income programs for older adults
211 OntarioMany older adults require income assistance. Access this resource for information on available income programs for you. -
Boomers need to consider savings protection
Canadian Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC)Make sure your savings are safe by depositing it to a bank that is a member of the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC). The CDIC makes sure your savings are still available even if your bank failed. Use this resource to learn about two kinds of protection given by CDIC banks: RRIF and Trust funds. -
Are you financially prepared for what's ahead?
Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC)It is important to make informed decisions about financial investments. Access this resource for information about working with a financial advisor and how to choose someone appropriate for you. -
Case management to help end homelessness
Supporting people who are homeless or who are precariously housed remains a complex issue, even more so in the context of a pandemic. Various support strategies could be put in place, including the use of case managers. -
There can’t be too many cooks: Kitchen collectives to feed your needs
Most Canadians eat out once a week or more, because it is more convenient, they don't have time, don't like to, or don't know how to cook. Some initiatives, such as collective kitchens, have been launched here and abroad to meet the nutritional, economical and social needs of people in the community. -
Managed alcohol programs: Helping chronic alcoholics with regular doses of alcohol
The harmful use of alcohol resulted in approximately three million deaths worldwide in 2016. Managed alcohol programs are a promising harm-reduction approach for people living with severe alcohol dependence who often experience homelessness or housing instability. -
Taking action together to address homelessness
Older adults are at increasing risk of homelessness due to lack of support, precarious health, economic and housing situations, and a lack of age-appropriate programs and services. We can collectively take action and leverage the assets of our health and social systems to address homelessness. -
Fiscal measures to support older adults and reduce poverty
Fiscal measures are often proposed to reduce the tax burden of older adults and reduce poverty. Finding the fiscal measures to which you are entitled can make anybody feel dizzy, but some professionals and tools can help you. -
A socially acceptable gentrification: is it possible?
Gentrification can exacerbate health problems among vulnerable groups, such as older adults, by limiting their access to needed services, affecting their social networks, and increasing their level of stress. Is it possible to control the negative impacts of gentrification and make it socially acceptable? -
How do we measure poverty?
Measuring poverty is complex because indicators currently used have limitations. In addition to income and market-basket indicators, indicators based on the level of education, health status, geographic region, clothing, housing, food security and social inclusion provide a portrait of poverty closer to reality. -
Gentrification: When neighbourhoods change, lives change
Sometimes central and disadvantaged neighbourhoods experience major changes, referred to as gentrification. Neighbourhood gentrification can have a significant impact on older adults who often have low and fixed incomes. -
A nest egg for our old days: Helping older adults manage their finances
Older adults and their caregivers face a budgetary puzzle – making a realistic budget based on fixed and limited incomes - while juggling many priority expenses. Develop your knowledge, skills and self-confidence to make responsible financial decisions.
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