Women are living longer than men — but not necessarily better. A study of 6,000 Canadians shows what they face after 50
The study by the National Institute on Ageing, in partnership with the International Longevity Centre for Canada, surveyed 6,001 Canadians. It found that nationally, women are living an average of 4.4 years longer than men; however, they face persistent inequalities and their experiences are often overlooked.
Canadian women 50 and older enjoy less financial security as they age because of gender pay gaps, interruptions in their careers for caregiving, and are more likely to work part time, according to the study, called The 2025 Ageing in Canada Survey. They are experiencing greater social isolation and loneliness: they are twice as likely to live alone and have higher rates of some chronic illnesses, both of which can cause social isolation. Women also reported experiencing ageism specific to their gender.
