Older adults say they'd consider assisted death: survey

Members of the Sudbury chapter of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons continue to be active in the community through volunteerism and regular physical activity, according to a recent survey of members.

A survey of nearly 200 CARP members, at the organization's annual general meeting May 27, found 93 per cent of respondents take regular walks, 45 per cent cycle, 86 per cent volunteer and 81 per cent use the Internet.

The survey covered a range of issues, from health care to municipal affairs.

Eighty per cent of those who completed the survey were over 65. Nearly all respondents said they have a family doctor, but almost 75 per cent said they also use walk-in clinics, and more than two thirds have used the hospital's emergency department.

With respect to being diagnosed with a terminal illness, more than 55 per cent of respondents said they would possibly deny treatment, and 62 per cent said that if they had a terminal illness and were in pain, they would consider assisted end-of-life measures.

On municipal issues, 55 per cent of respondents said the city's Health Community Initiatives funds should be continued, but 86 per cent said that if the funds were to continue, they should be administered by the city, and not by councillors.

Ninety per cent of surveyed CARP members said they still drive, but 55 per cent said they would take the bus if it were more convenient, and 72 per cent said it would be a more attractive option if it were less expensive.

Regarding roads infrastructure, 88 per cent of respondents said the city should carefully examine the need for Maley Drive, and 94 per cent said the city should repair existing roads and infrastructure before undertaking new projects.

Hugh Kruzel, president of the Sudbury CARP chapter, said that while the survey was not professionally done, it provides insight into matters of importance to Sudbury Older Adults and hoped that local decision makers in all areas of expressed concern would take notice with respect to this growing segment of the population.