Your Canadian Senior Moment

This Week’s News & Events Updates (July 12, 2025)

Here’s your weekly roundup of current news items relevant to Canadian seniors, keeping you informed on key financial, health, and policy updates from across the country.

Global Trends: Falls Remain a Leading Concern for Older Adults New international data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that death rates from falls among older adults have surged over the last 20 years, increasing over 70% for those aged 65 to 84. The greatest increases were for adults 85 and older. As more seniors globally prefer to live independently, falls remain a significant health risk. This highlights the ongoing importance of home safety, mobility assessment, and proactive prevention strategies for Canadians aiming to age in place. Source: Morningstar – More older adults are dying from falls. Here’s how to reduce the risk. (July 11, 2025)
World Population Day Highlights Healthy Aging Goals (July 11, 2025) Marked annually on July 11th, World Population Day this year emphasizes “Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world.” While focused on youth, the United Nations’ “Decade of Healthy Ageing” (2020-2030) continues to gain global traction. A recent WHO report highlights that 87% of member states now have national policies aligned with healthy aging, up 14% since 2020. This indicates a growing global recognition that proactive, long-term planning is essential to ensure older populations live with dignity, access to healthcare, and opportunities for independent living and protection from abuse. Source: PACE Hospitals – World Population Day – 11 July 2025; Think Global Health – Going Gray: National Aging Plans Gain Global Traction (July 9, 2025)
Investment Shifts: Global Investors Seek Safety Amid Volatility International economic news indicates a significant shift in investor behavior in the second quarter of 2025, driven by market volatility and uncertainty around tariffs. A report from Alight Solutions shows that 401(k) investors (similar to RRSP/RRIF holders in Canada) made their biggest shift in 5 years, moving money out of stocks and into safer options like bonds, money market funds, and stable value funds. While the specific data is US-centric, it reflects a global trend of individuals seeking stability in their retirement savings amidst economic turbulence. Canadian data from Sun Life also shows Canadians are generally holding strong in their retirement savings, but reallocating investments to reduce risk exposure rather than withdrawing funds. Sources: The Economic Times – 401(k) panic in America: Investors flee to safety amid tariff chaos (July 11, 2025); Newswire.ca (Sun Life) – Staying the course: Canadians continue saving for retirement amidst market volatility (July 8, 2025)
Advancements in “AgeTech” and Smart Home Integration for Seniors The tech world continues to focus on older adults. Recent discussions (including Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked 2025 on July 9th) highlight the rapid evolution of AI and connected wellness experiences. Wearable devices for health monitoring (like smartwatches, rings) are becoming more integrated into care-at-home solutions. Companies are developing smart home devices, AI-powered health monitoring, and robotics to enhance independence and safety for seniors, making aging in place easier. Innovations include “AgeTech” like eyeglasses with built-in hearing aids. Sources: Samsung Newsroom – [Galaxy Unpacked 2025] From AI to Actionable Care (July 11, 2025); Aging and Health Technology Watch – July 2025 (July 1, 2025); Heisinger Bluffs – The Future of Senior Living: Trends to Watch in 2025

Peripheral News of Interest for Canadian Seniors & Caregivers

These updates touch on broader trends, cultural happenings, and community events that might indirectly impact or be of interest to seniors and those who care for them.

Self-Care Month (June 24 – July 24, 2025) Promotes Well-being The World Health Organization (WHO) is promoting Self-Care Month, encouraging individuals to practice self-care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This initiative aims to raise awareness about self-care interventions and their benefits for overall health. For seniors, this can reinforce the importance of prioritizing personal well-being, whether through mindfulness, healthy habits, or seeking support. Source: WHO – Self-Care Month 2025
The Rise of “Creative Aging” Movement New trends like “Creative Aging” are redefining later life as a period of growth and contribution. This movement emphasizes integrating creative practices – like painting, music, dance, and writing – into daily routines. Research suggests creative engagement enhances emotional resilience, cognitive vitality, and social connections, actively combating isolation. Some organizations are leveraging AI to facilitate intergenerational mentoring relationships. Source: Global Wellness Institute – Aging Well Initiative Trends for 2025 (March 31, 2025)
New Government Initiatives for Aging at Home in Canada The Government of Canada continues its commitment to helping seniors age in place through programs like the “Age Well at Home initiative” (extended until 2025-26). This initiative provides funding to seniors-serving organizations for projects that test new approaches to in-home support, including mobilizing volunteers for practical help (meals, housekeeping, transportation) and helping seniors access local services. Source: Canada.ca (Employment and Social Development Canada) – Government of Canada announces two projects to help seniors age in their homes (Feb 19, 2025)

Please note that event details can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the event organizers for the most up-to-date information.