Commentary: The Future of Aging in Canada.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted Canada's elderly population, especially those in long-term care facilities.
• Pre-existing challenges in the long-term care sector were amplified and brought to public attention by the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the urgent need for healthcare leaders to re-envision elder care in Canada.
• To advocate for immediate, collaborative action to address systemic issues in long-term care.

Main Methods:

• This study is a call to action based on the observed impacts of the pandemic.
• It emphasizes the need for collaboration between leaders and seniors to inform future strategies.

Main Results:

• The pandemic underscored the vulnerability of the elderly in long-term care settings.
• There is a critical need for systemic change in how aging seniors are supported.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare leaders must act decisively to transform elder care.
• Rethinking system structures, funding models, and societal valuation of seniors is essential for future care.