Older woman in a clothing store

Our action plan outlines government’s commitments to:

  • value the social and economic contributions of older adults
  • promote healthy, active living
  • support aging in place so older Nova Scotians can stay connected to their communities as long as they can

Why we should SHIFT

Ageism affects all of us, and the government is committed to changing that. We’re focusing on valuing and supporting the contributions older adults continue to make to our province.

The SHIFT action plan includes over 50 specific actions government is taking to achieve these goals. We’re working collaboratively with businesses, organizations, municipalities, communities and individuals.

Join the SHIFT

Business woman standing outside an office building

Reap the business benefits

Over 11% of all adults over 64 remain in the paid labour force as employers, employees and entrepreneurs. This includes over 25% of people age 65-69.

And older adults are leading the way when it comes to volunteering: 44% volunteer in their communities, and for more hours than any other age group.

Programs are available to help Nova Scotians of all ages find jobs and improve their skills so they can be stronger employees and entrepreneurs.

Employers can get help creating age-friendly workplaces so they can hire and keep older workers and benefit from their knowledge, skills and experiences.

Group of seniors walking

Get and stay healthy

Staying physically and mentally healthy is important for Nova Scotians of all ages. That’s why government is changing health care delivery to improve the health of all Nova Scotians. We’re expanding collaborative care teams, improving mental health and addiction supports and upgrading our infrastructure with the QEII redevelopment.

We’re also working to help Nova Scotians become healthier in their daily lives, by increasing income assistance, supporting programs that make healthy food more accessible and encouraging Nova Scotians of all ages to incorporate physical activity into their day.

North Preston Seniors group at the North Preston Community Centre. The group meets to sew, knit and quilt.

Stay connected to community

Many older adults want to stay in their homes, but this can put them at risk for isolation. Government is supporting programs that help them stay socially connected to their communities. These include affordable housing and rural transportation, increased help for caregivers and funding for projects that create age-friendly communities.