EngAge BC Survey looks at attitudes toward independent living

This August, EngAge BC enlisted the help of top B.C. survey company Research Co. — led by Mario Canseco —to conduct a poll looking at the public’s attitude toward independent living. The poll surveyed 1,200 residents in the Lower Mainland, broken into two groups 45-64 and 65+.

“In addition to offering important insights on public attitudes toward independent living, the results also indicate that programs we’ve developed such as Assurity, Route 65 and the Seniors Living Expo can be beneficial to older adults in B.C.,” says Terry Lake, CEO, EngAge BC & BC Care Providers Association.

Below are some highlights from the survey:

• The study indicated that just over three-in-four respondents (76%) have a positive opinion of independent living homes.
• When asked to think about the older friend or family member closest to them, about a third (32%) of respondents aged 45-to-64 envision that person moving into an independent living home/retirement community in the next 10 years+, while just under three-in-ten (29%) see this happening in the next five years. More than one-in-five respondents (22%) think this will never happen.
• Of those over 65, almost half of respondents (47%) foresee this development in the next 10 years+, while 19% believe this will happen in the next five years. Three-in-ten respondents (30%) think it will never happen.
• Over both age groups, four-in-five respondents say the quality assurance program would make them “very likely” or “moderately likely” to choose a retirement community or home health organization for themselves, or recommend one to a family member.
• More than nine-in-ten respondents (93%) say that a website which listed everything available in their community would be “very helpful” or “moderately helpful,” if they needed independent living or home health care services.
• Of those 65+ seven-in-ten respondents (69%) say they are “very likely” or “moderately likely” to attend an expo showcasing services and supports for older adults, such as independent living, home health, assisted living and long-term care. Of the 45-65 age group, two thirds of respondents (66%) say they are “very likely” or “moderately likely” to attend.

ResearchCo’s full report includes more information on the factors which encourage or dissuade seniors from considering independent living, the perceived benefits of independent living, and on how well respondents differentiate between independent living and care. It is available exclusively for members on our Member 365 platform here.

Click here to view the infographic.