- The Life After Service Studies (LASS) is a comprehensive research program to understand the effects of the transition from military to civilian life on the health and well-being of Canadian Armed Forces Veterans. The 2013 studies build on the earlier studies conducted in 2010.
- The results of these LASS studies help the Government of Canada ensure that Veterans and their families have the benefits and services they need to make a successful transition to civilian life.
- The 2013 survey and income study were conducted in spring of 2013 by Statistics Canada on behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada and the Department of National Defence. Included were former Regular Force personnel who released between January 1998 and August 2012 and former Reserve Force personnel (Class A/B, Class C) who released between January 2003 and August 2012.
Transition-related responses
| Regular Force Veterans | Transition-related responses | Reserve Class A/B Veterans |
|---|---|---|
| 86% | satisfied with life | 94% |
| 59% | using military skills in civilian job | 48% |
| 56% | had an easy adjustment to civilian life | 74% |
| 8% | low income rate; lower than 15% rate for Canadians. | 12% |
| 7% | unemployed;similar to Canadians. | 6% |
| 1 - 2% | used Social Assistance or Guaranteed Income Supplement in any year post-release | 2 - 3% |
| Within 8 years of release | income exceeds pre-release income | First year after release |
Health-related responses
| Regular Force Veterans | Health-related responses | Reserve Class A/B Veterans |
|---|---|---|
| 92% | had insurance for prescriptions | 83% |
| 84% | reported good mental health | 94% |
| 82% | reported good health | 93% |
| 81% | have a family doctor | 76% |
| 23% | found life stressful; lower than 25% rate for Canadians. | 17% |
| 17% | daily smoker; lower than 20% rate for Canadians. | 10% |