Socio-Economic Inequalities in Housing Issues: Measurement and Beyond

Based on the 2016 Census, almost one fourth of Canadian households lived in dwellings with shelter costs that were not considered affordable, that is the households spent 30% or more of their average income on shelter costs. Housing affordability problems are not evenly distributed among the population. In fact, considerable evidence indicates the existence of inequalities in housing outcomes between groups of differing socio-economic status, where problems are concentrated among renters, seniors living alone, residents in urban areas, women and immigrants.

We have many compelling findings. In comparison to the non-immigrant population, immigrants on average face more severe housing issues—this finding is true when we consider the prevalence, depth and severity of the hardship and affordability issue indicators. In terms of housing-induced poverty, immigrants suffer a larger poverty gap and greater severity than non-immigrants. We also find evidence that points to a potentially higher cost of borrowing faced by immigrants. In addition, the socio-economic inequalities in the incidence of hardship and affordability issues are unfavourable for the immigrant population, though the inequalities are reversed when we consider the depth and severity of the said indicators. This finding implies that there is a higher prevalence of hardship at the lower end of the income distribution for the immigrant population but that the problems related to the depth and severity of the hardship (and the housing-induced poverty)are more pronounced at the lower end of the income distribution for the non-immigrant population.

For the full CMHC study, please click here.

5 ways prepare for and protect yourself during extreme heat

(NC) Whether you’re stuck in the office or spending a long weekend at the cottage, extreme heat can surly put a damper on your day. To stay cool and safe, follow these simple tips recommended by Health Canada:

Know the signs of heat illness. For heat exhaustion, this includes high body temperature, confusion, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, and decreased urination.

The signs and symptoms of heat stroke, a more serious condition and a medical emergency, can overlap with those of heat exhaustion. They include high body temperature, confusion, lack of coordination, dizziness and fainting. In classic heat stroke, a person doesn’t sweat but may show very hot, red skin; however in exertional (associated with exercise) heat stroke there may be profuse sweating.

Take breaks. Spend a few hours in a cool place. It could be a tree-shaded area, swimming facility or an air-conditioned spot such as a shopping mall, grocery store, place of worship or public library. If you’re at home or at a community center, take cool showers or baths to feel refreshed.

Keep your home cool. If you have an air conditioner with a thermostat, keep it set to the highest setting that is comfortable – somewhere between 22 and 26°C. If you are using a window air conditioner, cool only one room where you can go for heat relief. You can also block the sun by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day. If safe, open your windows at night to let the cooler air into your home.

When it comes to cooking, prepare meals that don’t need to be cooked in the oven – opt for salads, sandwiches or grilling something outdoors under the shade.

Pay attention to how you and those around you feel. Frequently visit neighbours, friends and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill or live alone, to make sure that they are cool and hydrated. Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.

Find more tips on how to stay cool this summer at canada.ca/health.

www.newscanada.com

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