Ageism is the most tolerated form of social prejudice in Canada compared to racism and sexism, and many well-intentioned Canadians are, in fact, depriving their elders of the independence and choice that are crucial to aging well. These are among the findings of the Revera Report on Ageism: Independence and Choice As We Age, released today by Revera, leading owner, operator and investor in the senior living sector, and the Sheridan Centre for Elder Research. The report accompanies the launch of the Revera Innovators In Aging program, a $20 million commitment by Revera to bring promising innovations to life that help seniors maintain their independence.
“Ageism is getting old! Every person, young or old, can live life with purpose,” says 95-year-old former Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion, now Chief Elder Officer at Revera and Chancellor-designate of Sheridan College. “This purpose doesn’t end when you get older; society must recognize that older people can and want to continue to make a contribution, and this begins with tackling ageism.” Pat Spadafora, Director of the Sheridan Centre for Elder Research adds: “Every social movement begins with awareness, and we are confident that the Revera Report on Ageism will also inspire action.”
