Fall-related injuries and cardiovascular disease are the leading drivers of emergency department visits and hospital admissions among older adults in York Region, according to a health status report released by the region. The findings are part of Understanding the Health of Seniors in York Region: Healthy Aging in Our Community, a municipal report that draws on data from the population health assessment dashboard to track regional health trends and guide municipal program planning.
Fall Injuries and Hospitalizations Among Seniors
Fall-related injuries remain the most frequent reason for emergency room visits among older adults in the area. Municipal data show there were approximately 5,298 fall-related emergency visits for every 100,000 York Region seniors in 2023, a frequency that has held steady since 2014, according to the regional health report.
Cardiovascular disease represents the highest cause of senior hospitalizations, recording 3,130 cases per 100,000 residents in that age group during 2023. However, hospitalization rates for heart conditions have trended downward from 2012 levels, a shift the report attributes largely to reductions in ischemic heart disease driven by improved preventive care and medical treatments.
Vaccination Coverage Gaps in Long-Term Care
The regional health report flags declining immunization rates inside congregate living facilities, raising vulnerability to respiratory outbreaks in long-term care and retirement homes. While approximately 80 per cent of residents in these facilities received an influenza vaccine in 2024, only 50 per cent obtained a COVID-19 vaccine, and just 60 per cent received protection against respiratory syncytial virus during the 2023-24 season, according to regional figures.
“By increasing the number of residents and staff who are vaccinated against respiratory viruses, illnesses and deaths from respiratory outbreaks can be reduced and LTC and RH residents’ quality of life can be maintained,” the report stated.
Did You Know?
Municipal health dashboard updates show that 88 per cent of older adults reported good or better mental health in 2023, representing a slight decrease from 2021 levels. At the same time, 82 per cent indicated high levels of social support, and 64 per cent reported a strong sense of community belonging.
Senior Homelessness Trends in York Region
Rates of homelessness among older adults have declined following a multi-year surge. After climbing from four per cent in 2018 to eight per cent in 2021, the rate of senior homelessness dropped to five per cent in 2024, mirroring broader federal patterns noted in the assessment.
“Addressing unstable housing and homelessness in York Region supports people with the greatest health needs and strengthens community well-being,” the report noted, pointing to broader environmental and social risks like extreme heat, food insecurity, and the growing complexity of caregiving that require coordinated systems planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the leading cause of emergency room visits for seniors in York Region?
According to the municipal health report, falls are the largest cause of emergency department visits, recording about 5,298 visits per 100,000 seniors in 2023.
What health condition causes the most senior hospitalizations?
Cardiovascular disease is the highest cause of hospitalization among older adults in the region, with 3,130 cases per 100,000 seniors in 2023, though rates have dropped since 2012.
What are the vaccination rates in long-term care facilities?
Regional data show that in recent reporting periods, approximately 80 per cent of long-term care and retirement home residents received a flu shot, 50 per cent received a COVID-19 vaccine, and 60 per cent were immunized against RSV.
Explore the full municipal findings and access detailed health indicators by visiting the York Region Health Data portal.
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