2.0 NWT SENIOR LITERACY NEEDS
2.1 Characteristics of the NWT Senior Population
Population
In 2003, one in nine NWT residents was a senior, 55 years or older.
(Table 2) By 2014, one in six NWT residents will be a senior if forecasted
growth is achieved in the next decade. (Table 3)
Table 2: NWT and Selected Community Elder Population Estimates, 2003
| Community |
Total |
<55 |
55+ |
Percentage |
| NWT |
41,872 |
37,251 |
4,621 |
11% |
| Fort Resolution |
548 |
455 |
93 |
17% |
| Fort Simpson |
1,237 |
1,108 |
129 |
10% |
| Inuvik |
3,435 |
3,065 |
370 |
11% |
| Yellowknife |
18,673 |
17,108 |
1,565 |
8% |
Source: Bureau of Statistics. Population Estimates. Community and Age.
2003
Compared to growth trends anticipated for the NWT, Yellowknife’s
seniors population is expected to grow at a much faster rate (92%) than
in other communities. In Fort Resolution, the seniors population is
expected to decline over the next decade. (Table 3)
The vast majority of seniors, especially those 65 years and over,
live independently. More seniors in NWT over 65 live alone than adults
55 to 64. (NWT Health and Social Services, 2003). Housing Association
personnel suggest that a small percentage of seniors live in seniors
housing, nursing homes or long term care facilities. Many seniors not
living independently, live with a younger family member such as a grandchild.
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