Intergenerational policies and programs
Intergenerational fairness is key to solving some of Canada’s most urgent social policy challenges and building an equitable society. When we look closely at policy challenges like income inequality or the fiscal implications of an aging population, we find that the associated costs are not borne equally by all generations. But our social policies rarely take this into account.
In this report, Sherri Torjman argues that an intergenerational perspective can identify polices which both bridge the income divide and build supportive relationships between generations. She explores the application of an intergenerational lens with respect to achieving three key social development objectives: reducing income inequality, lowering costs for future generations, and promoting good health and well-being.
For each objective, the report offers a series of intergenerational policy or program recommendations. These recommendations include:
- Creating youth employment opportunities
- Enhancing income supplementation
- Shifting health funds toward community-based care
- Investing in high-quality child care
- Providing assistance with housing costs
- Reforming pension financing
- Designing intergenerational education programs
- Creating mentoring opportunities
- Integrating housing and support