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Employment

While many look forward to retirement, a growing number of older adults are working beyond 65 as a way to keep active, supplement their income, and continue contributing to society. While older workers are often experienced, reliable and more flexible in their schedules, there remain challenges for both employers and employees. Read more in our resources below.

What factors lead to early retirement due to disability?
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Workers and employers: push back the retirement age!
Read Blog Post
Combating ageism in the workplace
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  • Web Resource Rating

    Supporting Carer-Workers: 5-Point Checklist for Carer-Employees

    Gender Health & Caregiver-Friendly Workplaces
    Employers can use this checklist to determine how best they can support their employees who are caregivers.
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    Supporting Carer-Workers: Checklist for Carer-Employees

    Gender Health & Caregiver-Friendly Workplaces
    This checklist can be used by carer-workers who are considering approaching their supervisor or manager at work to request workplace arrangements.
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    Resources for Caregivers and Caregiver Employees

    Gender Health & Caregiver-Friendly Workplaces
    This factsheet provides a summary of the supports that are available to caregivers and caregiver-employees for each province in Canada.
  • Evidence Summary

    Older workers experience higher rates of fatal injuries, and younger workers experience higher rates of non-fatal injuries

    International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics (2020)
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    Work, Care and the Carer-Inclusive and Accommodating Organizations (CIAO) Standard

    The Vanier Institute of the Family
    The Carer-Inclusive and Accommodating Organizations (CIAO) Standard supports employees who are also informal caregivers. It helps employers and employees work together to balance work and caregiving responsibilities. A standard can help ensure employees feel more supported in their jobs. It also encourages employee retention and recruitment. Read this resource to learn more.
  • Evidence Summary

    Work-to-retirement transition may be influenced by employment type

    Australian Occupational Therapy Journal (2018)
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    Promoting the labour force participation of older Canadians

    Health Canada
    This resource describes Canadian plans to help older adults to work for longer such as by increasing education, helping find jobs and handle health issues.
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    Recognizing Burnout

    Gender Health & Caregiver-Friendly Workplaces
    This factsheet will help you recognize burnout in yourself and employers to recognize burnout in their employees.
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    Infographic: Women, Caregiving and Work in Canada

    The Vanier Institute of the Family
    Caregivers have disproportionately been women. Women are also more likely to encounter challenges at work due to their caregiver status. Read this resource to learn more about the status of women workers and caregivers.
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    A Snapshot of Family Caregiving and Work in Canada

    The Vanier Institute of the Family
    Family caregiving responsibilities shape the reality of work in Canada. Caregiving is a positive experience for caregivers but productivity at work may be impacted. Supportive employer policies can ensure employees are able to balance focused care and productivity. Read this resource to learn more about trends in employment and family caregiving.
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    Circuits of Care: Mobility, Work and Managing Family Relationships

    The Vanier Institute of the Family
    Workers who are mobile may work far away from their families. They must learn to cope with loneliness and feelings of missing out while on the job. Forming a nexus of care in your mobile and home community can help. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Family Caregiving in Canada: A Fact of Life and a Human Right

    The Vanier Institute of the Family
    Balancing family caregiving responsibilities and work can be challenging. Employers can make this balance easier for their employees with accomodations and flexible work arrangements. Families and employers both benefit from these arrangements. Employers are able to save money and encourage employee productivity. Employers are able to care for their family and worry less about work. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Intergenerational Relations and Societal Change

    The Vanier Institute of the Family
    Knowing about generational trends can help us understand some of the issues faced by caregivers of all ages. Older adults are working past their typical age of retirement and young people face poor-paying jobs in an unstable economy. There is also great diversity in how families are made up which further complicates caregiving roles. Read this resource to learn more about these trends and challenges.
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    How the Coronavirus Punishes Many Older Workers

    Next Avenue
    The COVID-19 pandemic has caused several jobs to shift to telework setups however some jobs cannot be done from home. Older adults have generally less access to jobs that allow working from home. This is troubling as older adults are impacted by job loss and economic insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Age Discrimination, Caregiving and Health Issues Limit Options for Older Workers

    American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Health
    One of the reasons why older adults may experience underemployment is age discrimination. Underemployment is when someone is overqualified for their job position or is not able to work as many hours as they would like. Read this resource to learn how bias against older adults can cause under employment.
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    Carer-inclusive and accommodating organizations

    CSA group
    Caregivers may be balancing taking of a loved one with a full-time job. Organizations that are carer-inclusive can help make this balance easier for their care-giver employees. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Will More Baby Boomers Delay Retirement?

    Population Reference Bureau
    American baby boomers are increasingly delaying retirement. This resource provides several explanations for why this may be occurring.
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    Changing population age structures and sustainable development

    United Nations: Sustainable Development goals
    Population growth and development affect each other. The UN's Commission on Population and Development helps take on the challenges of population growth. Watch this video to learn more about what this UN Commission does.
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    The future is now! Global Sustainable Development Report 2019

    United Nations: Sustainable Development goals
    Science is an important part of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We must support scientific research to help respond to our changing world.
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    Age-friendly workplaces: Promoting older worker participation

    Employment and Social Development Canada
    Age friendly workplaces must be accessible to workers of all ages and this resource describes ways to create an inclusive workplace. Consider hiring older workers and learn how their experiences can benefit your company.
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    Taking SS Early Retirement: Weigh The Pitfalls First

    National Council on Aging (US)
    Learn about the benefits and disadvantages of taking pension money out early as social security during retirement.
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    9 Free Resources for Managing Your Money

    National Council on Aging (US)
    Use this resource to gain access to a variety of tools that an help you plan financially for your future. Consider using online resources to understand your finances and be able to make informed decisions.
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    Helping boomers switch from for-profit to non-profit work

    American Society on Aging (ASA)
    Boomers interested in working longer will find in non-profits a great way to use their talent, skills and energy. Or non-profits might fit as an encore career for those who spent the majority of their work life in the corporate or business sector.
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    A guide to long-term care insurance

    Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA)
    The population of older Canadians is growing. It is important for aging Canadians to be financially insured because the government will not cover all long-term care and retirement programs. Use this resource to learn about long-term care insurance to make sure you are financially protected.
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    Second Career

    Ontario Ministry of Education
    The government of Ontario offers financial support to those seeking a second career after they have been laid off and not working. Access this resource to see if you are eligible and the terms and conditions of this program.
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    Work in your profession or trade

    Ontario Ministry of Education
    You must be registered with one of regulatory bodies of a profession or trade if you want to practice in Ontario. Access this resource to learn about the services in Ontario that help you continue working in your profession or trade if you have been trained in another country.
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    Adjusting after job loss

    Ontario Ministry of Education
    It may be difficult adjusting after a company layoff or plant closure. Read this resource for information on how to adjust and meet with an advisor.
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    Canadian Retirement Income Calculator - General Information

    Employment and Social Development Canada
    Use this calculator to estimate your income after retirement. The calculation is based on your pensions, savings, and other sources of income. You will get a report on your predicted income at yearly.
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    Get what you need to find a job- helpful solutions for immigrants

    Emploi-Québec
    If you are a new immigrant in Quebec, you can follow 4 key steps to find a job. Use this resource to find instructions on settling down, assessing your current situation, searching for jobs, and accessing employment services and resources.
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    Direct deposit

    Emploi-Québec
    If you reside in Quebec, you can get your social assistance money from the government directly sent to your bank account by setting up Direct Deposit. Use this resource to learn and register for Direct Deposit.
  • Evidence Summary

    Ageism takes many forms in the workplace

    The Gerontologist (2018)
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    Eye Safety

    Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB)
    More than two thirds of eye injuries happen at home. There are many things that you can do to prevent eye injuries. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Overcoming Age Discrimination in the Hiring Process

    Aging.com
    Older adults are working later in life for many reasons including maintaining their financial independence. Getting a job may mean overcoming age-related discrimination which in the US, is against the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Read this resource to learn about some tips to help you overcome ageism in the hiring process.
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    Caring Enough to Flex, Flexing Enough to Care

    The Vanier Institute of the Family
    Caregiving responsibilities can be complex and often unpredictable. Flexible work arrangements help employees manage their caregiving responsibilities alongside their paid work. Employers should use innovation and creative means to make the balance easier for their employees. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Try Retirement 2.0!

    Senior Planet
    Many older adults choose to work part time or engage in volunteering after retirement. Staying active helps people feel energized and connected. There are many ways you can make the best of your post-retirement. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Helping worker-carers in your organization

    CSA group
    This resource can help organizations create a work environment that is inclusive to caregiver needs. This guide should be used alongside the CSA Group Standard for carer-inclusive and accommodating organizations. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Balancing work and caregiving responsibilities

    Employment and Social Development Canada
    Many people are working a job while caring for a loved one. It is important to take care of yourself and find support as you balance your responsibilities. Learn how to balance caring for a loved one and working at your job.
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    Age-friendly workplace - Charter

    Employment and Social Development Canada
    This resource outlines the age-friendly workplace charter. It outlines the values and principles that create a welcoming work environment for older workers. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Helping employees balance work and caregiving responsibilities

    Employment and Social Development Canada
    Many employees are also caregivers to their loved ones. Employers can help their employees balance their responsibilities with flexible policies and attitudes. Read this resource to learn more.
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    Career Transition Services

    Veterans Affairs Canada
    Career Transition Services can help you transition from military life to a post-military career. Get help with finding work, writing your resume, and preparing for interviews. Read this resource to learn more.
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    3 Rules for Job Hunting Over 50

    National Council on Aging (US)
    Finding a job when you are older can be difficult. But with confidence and preparation, you can succeed in finding good work. Read these three tips on how to find employment after the age of 50.
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    How Are U.S. Baby Boomers Getting Along?

    Population Reference Bureau
    Read this infographic to learn about some facts about how baby boomers are faring in the Unites States including work and marital status trends.
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    Leave no one behind toolkit

    Bond
    Sustainable development should help lift everyone - no matter their social status or age. The "Leave No One Behind" commitment promises to make sure this comes true. Learn more about what steps are being taken around the world so no one is left behind.
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    Do you know all 17 SDGs?

    United Nations: Sustainable Development goals
    The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 goals to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure all people enjoy peace and prosperity. Watch this short video to learn about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and their impact.
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    The United Nations Sustainable Development Summit: 17 Goals to Transform Our World

    United Nations: Sustainable Development goals
    The Sustainable Development Goals are 17 goals to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change. They were agreed upon by 193 countries. Learn more about the ways in which these goals hope to build a sustainable future.
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    Employment, decent work for all and social protection

    United Nations: Sustainable Development goals
    Sustainable Development Goal 8 aims to “promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”. There are many reasons that decent work is needed for sustainable development. Learn more about what governments can do to help its citizens in the workforce.
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    Working

    British Columbia Family & Social Supports
    If you live in British Columbia, you can continue to work after the age of retirement since the elimination of mandatory retirement in 2008. Enjoy the benefits of working to stay healthy and active throughout your old age while sharing your lifetime of skills and experience.
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    Preventing Elder Abuse and Neglect

    Healthy Families BC
    Elder abuse can happen from trusted caregivers, family members or even strangers. Understand and learn the signs of elder abuse, neglect and self-neglect in order to ensure that the seniors around you are safe and healthy. If you suspect any kind of abuse, use this resource for more information on how to report it.
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    Seniors Seeking Employment

    American Senior Communities
    It is very common nowadays for seniors to be working well into retirement. Use this resource for tips on getting back into the workforce, some of them include updating your resume, practicing interview questions and volunteering to build skills for a specific position.
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    Has Your Network Aged Out and Abandoned You?

    Next Avenue
    If you are thinking of continuing to work in your 60s, consider reading this resource for tips on how to update your social network to obtain your next job. For many older workers, their social network will be what determines if and when they get their next job.
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    Retired Professional Women: Finding Your New Identity and Work

    Next Avenue
    Retired professional women may want to keep working either in the same field as they worked before or find a completely new field that they have always wanted to try. It’s important to realize that with retirement comes new freedom and there are many possibilities to explore.
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    Job Hunting Later in Life

    American Senior Communities
    Finding a job later in life can be hard as employers are usually looking for long term employees. However, seniors offer decades of experience and some jobs in retail, teaching or caregiving can be a perfect fit for seniors who still wish to work regularly.
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    Job interview tips

    Age UK
    If you are a senior who has been asked for a job interview and you need help preparing, use this resource to learn tips that will help you before, during and after the interview.
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    CVs and job applications

    Age UK
    If you are a senior who is a little out of practice with job hunting, use this resource to learn how to write a good CV and tips for completing a competitive job application.
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    Looking for work

    Age UK
    If you have been out of work for a long time or if it has been awhile since you searched for jobs, use this resource for tips to help you in the process. If you are not having any luck finding jobs online, consider using a recruitment agency.
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    Be your own boss

    Age UK
    If you are considering starting your own business or becoming self-employed, use this resource for tips on how to get started and help with the finances of a business.
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    Build up your skills

    Age UK
    If you are looking for work and want to work on building skills for a particular job, consider volunteering to gain experience in a certain field. This resource provides ideas on where you can potentially volunteer and explains how volunteer experience can benefit your job search.
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    Flexible working

    Age UK
    If you are a senior who wants to cut down on hours at work or if you are a caregiver who has many responsibilities, consider a flexible working schedule. This resource describes the various schedules people can create for themselves to cater to their changing needs at the workplace along with how to approach your boss on this topic.
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    Age-friendly workplaces: A self-assessment tool for employers

    Employment and Social Development Canada
    Age friendly workplaces must be accessible to workers of all ages and this resource helps employers ensure that they are recruiting workers of all ages by providing a self-assessment checklist. Consider hiring older workers as their experiences can benefit your company.
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    Employment Insurance

    British Columbia Family & Social Supports
    Use this resource if you are still working past the age of 65 years old as you are eligible for employment insurance in case you lose your job. Also see information about how you can receive employment insurance and your pension at the same time.
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    How much you need to save for retirement

    Get Smarter About Money
    Use this resource as a guide for saving for retirement and learn about ways to maximize savings and how much you should save for the future.
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    Government benefits (CPP, OAS, GIS)

    Get Smarter About Money
    Use this resource to learn about the main government benefits that seniors in Canada are eligible for and how they can help you financially.
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    Income Supports

    Homeless Hub
    Learn more about social and financial programs that are offered for the homeless in order to help them maintain access to a reliable income.
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    Poverty

    Homeless Hub
    Use this resource to learn more about poverty and how it can change every aspect of someone's life. Also learn about the factors that increase poverty in Canada and why a solution is not so easy to implement.
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    ARCHIVED: Section IV: Age-Friendly Rural and Remote Communities – Checklist of Age-Friendly Features

    Public Health Agency of Canada (aging & seniors)
    This resource shares a list of features to make communities more age-friendly. Consider changing outdoor spaces, transport, housing and community services to help the elderly.
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    Working while collecting a pension

    Health Canada
    Consider how much you need to pay for taxes and your pension plan if you are working or retired and over 60.
  • Evidence Summary

    Good health, financial gains, and flexible alternative working conditions are key to prolong work life

    Work: A Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation (2018)
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    Disability lens evaluation of four provincial poverty reduction strategies: Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia

    Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD)
    Persons with disabilities are more likely to be unemployed and in poverty than their healthier counterparts. Read this resource for information on poverty reduction strategies for Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia.
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    Employment assistant services

    Emploi-Québec
    Employment assistance services provides opportunities to attend information session on the labour market, get career advice, and take part in job-search activities. Read this resource for more information and to see if you are qualified for the program.
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    Services to citizens- Employment and social solidarity

    Emploi-Québec
    If you reside in Quebec, Emploi-Quebec can help you find employment. They have resources for the general public and specialized resources for people with specific needs and identities. Use this resource to view the ways that Emploi-Quebec can help you make career choices, get training, search for jobs, and more.
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    Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities: First Report of Canada

    Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD)
    This resource explains the what the government is doing to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. Use the table of contents to find the laws, policies and program created to protect these rights in each Canadian province and territory.
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    Occupations in demand in the Nord-du-Quebec, 2nd semester of 2014

    Emploi-Québec
    Use this resource to find a list of jobs that are in high demand between 2016-2017. The list is made through analysis of the job market in Nord-du-Quebec. The resource also includes some documents and links about the job market in Quebec.
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    Protect your personal information

    Emploi-Québec
    A resume and cover letter are usually required when applying for a job. Do not include your social insurance number, driver’s license or health insurance card numbers. Access this resource for information on protecting yourself from cases of potential identity theft.
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    Organize your job search

    Emploi-Québec
    The Youth Alternative Program provides social and employment self-sufficiency to those under the age of 25. This program will help you get a job that you like and meets your expectations. Access this resource to see if the program is right for you.
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    Vocational qualification

    Emploi-Québec
    Vocational Qualification programs help people achieve full proficiency in their trades. The programs consider the labour market and are conducted alongside industry representatives. Read this resource for information on acquiring qualifications for your trade.
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    Recognition of qualifications

    Emploi-Québec
    Recognition of qualifications differ from province to province. Read this resource for information regarding the recognition of your qualifications from another province/country, in Quebec, or if you must undergo examinations and/or retraining.
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    Other income support programs

    Emploi-Québec
    Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to additional financial assistance. Access this resource for information on the solidarity tax credit, and credit for child assistance.
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    Réussir program

    Emploi-Québec
    If you reside in Quebec and do not have the appropriate training to find a job, you may be able to get financial support for job-training at college or university. Use this resource to learn more about the Reussir program.
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    Social assistance and social solidarity programs

    Emploi-Québec
    The social assistance and social solidarity programs are for last-resort financial assistance for individuals who are a Quebec resident. Access this resource to see if you are eligible.
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    Job readiness

    Emploi-Québec
    Entering or re-entering the labour market may be a daunting task for young people. Read this resource for information on job readiness, setting career goals, volunteering, and social training,
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    Assistance to former recipients of social assistant - Supplement to the Work Premium

    Emploi-Québec
    If your wages are insufficient to cover the costs involved in joining the workforce, you may qualify for financial assistance. This program is for you if you are no longer receiving social assistance, or are no longer eligible for the Youth Alternative Program. Access this resource for more information.
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    Support for self-employment

    Emploi-Québec
    If you reside in Quebec, you may get government financial support for starting your own business or creating your own job. Use this resource to learn about the “Support for Self-Employment Measure”.
  • Blog Post

    Technostress: The 'dark side' of technology in the workplace

    Information and communication technologies (ICT) have long been used in the workplace and have recently seen a new boost due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many workers are encouraged, and under the obligation, to use technologies: computers, softwares, virtual communication platforms, mobile applications. ICT makes work easier, but it can also be stressful and even harmful to health. Are you "technostressed"?
  • Blog Post

    Raising the retirement age: what about the health and wellbeing of older workers

    Many countries are now looking for strategies to boost their economy and recover from the pandemic. Some countries are considering various policy instruments, including slowly raising the retirement age before people can receive their full pension from their government.But beyond potential economic gains, does raising the retirement age have positive effects on the health and wellbeing of older workers?
  • Blog Post

    Combatting ageism to leverage the assets of older workers

    Ageism is the set of stereotypes, prejudices and discriminatory behaviors based on age. If you are employed or looking for a job and believe you are being discriminated against because of your age, remember that this is illegal.
  • Blog Post

    Combating ageism in the workplace

    Although there is a desperate need for experienced and skilled labour, older workers are facing challenges. In fact, many of them face stereotypes, prejudices and discrimination because of their age.
  • Blog Post

    Making the transition to retirement

    Retirement is synonymous with freedom for many, but for others it brings its share of anxiety and questioning. Many factors influence retirement perceptions, expectations and planning, including gender, health status, socio-economic status and the nature of work.
  • Blog Post

    Workers and employers: push back the retirement age!

    Finding strategies to support older workers push back the retirement age will be important to face the decline in the working-age population.
  • Blog Post

    What factors lead to early retirement due to disability?

    Psychological and organizational factors at work contribute to early retirements due to disability. These factors need to be recognized and addressed to lessen their influence on workers who leave the workforce earlier than necessary.