Four of the top five aging concerns were the same for Canadian men and women, though in slightly different order. When it comes to “gaining weight,” far more Canadian women than men are concerned (45% for women; 29% for men – not even in their top five); similarly, when it comes to “losing mobility,” Canadian women are more worried than men (47% for women; 37% for men).
Men, women also differ on global level
Globally, women’s levels of concern about aging were higher than men’s – but the differences were not as dramatic as in Canada. The top worry among women worldwide was loss of mental alertness or memory, mentioned by 42%; the leading concern for men globally was “eyesight getting poorer,” cited by 37%.
Overall, eight symptoms scored at the 30% level or higher among women in the 17 countries surveyed, compared to just five for men.
Countries with high levels of concern
Concerns about vision are highest in Spain (53%), Mexico, and Argentina (both 52%) – the only countries surveyed where more than half of respondents said they were worried about this condition. Mental health is a prevalent concern in Spain (66%), Argentina (58%), Germany (52%), Mexico (51%), and Italy (50%).
About the study
The survey question asked: “Which of these physical conditions do you worry most about having, either now or as you age?” GfK conducted the online survey with over 22,000 consumers aged 15 or older across 17 countries. Fieldwork was completed in summer 2016. Data are weighted to reflect the demographic composition of the online population aged 15+ in each market. Countries covered are Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, Spain, UK and USA.
About GfK
GfK is the trusted source of relevant market and consumer information that enables its clients to make smarter decisions. More than 13,000 market research experts combine their passion with GfK’s long-standing data science experience. This allows GfK to deliver vital global insights matched with local market intelligence from more than 100 countries. By using innovative technologies and data sciences, GfK turns big data into smart data, enabling its clients to improve their competitive edge and enrich consumers’ experiences and choices.
For more information, please visit www.gfk.com or follow GfK on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GfK.
