…of Canadians report a disability. 

More than 40% of Canadians with disabilities are not in the labour force, forcing many of them to rely upon social assistance benefits. These benefits leave people living below the poverty line. Compared with those without disabilities, individuals with disabilities are less likely to get recommended preventive health care, such as teeth cleanings and cancer screenings, are at higher risk for obesity, hypertension, falls-related injuries, and mood disorders (i.e. depression) and are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviours that put their health at risk (i.e. cigarette smoking and not exercising). 

What can be done?

Communities can:

• Be accessible so everyone can live in, move through, and interact with their environment.

Governments can:

• Increase support through Ontario Disability Support Program to cover the real cost of living.
• Ensure access to appropriate health care services.
• Provide valuable education and work opportunities.
• Increase access to needed technologies and assistive supports.

Resources:

Disabled in Ontario increasingly forced onto welfare

Disability and Health