Aging Expert Says Future Bright for Nova Scotia Seniors

Delegates at a conference about the province's aging population heard today, May 13, that Nova Scotia is well-positioned to adapt and be successful in a silver economy.

Dr. Joe Coughlin, keynote speaker at the Silver Economy Summit in Halifax, which runs until tomorrow, May 14, said he is optimistic that conditions are good to succeed in Canada's "oldest province."

"There are new opportunities for Nova Scotia to reinvent old age –- combining its communities, colleges and a climate of innovation -- the future of old age in Nova Scotia will be healthy, engaged and productive," said Dr. Coughlin.

The potential for employers, entrepreneurs, community leaders and seniors to adapt and find success because of, not in spite of, an aging population has been a major theme of the event.

"Nova Scotia can be first with innovation and exploring new ways of doing things to accommodate a growing senior population," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "There is no doubt that the status quo is changing and everyone, including government, needs to be ready to ensure seniors have the goods, services and programs they need now and in the years to come."

"Seniors are increasingly important contributors to Nova Scotia's social and economic life and we're taking another step in tapping into that resource by bringing the first Silver Economy event to North America," said Denise Peterson-Rafuse, Minister of Seniors. "This supports government's commitment to making life better for seniors and families."

The two-day event features a long list of trend-watchers and successful pioneers on topics about the social and economic implications of an aging population. In Nova Scotia, 1,000 people turn 65 each month and the population of people older than 65 is expected to nearly double by 2033.

People can still register for the Friday event at www.silvereconomysummit.ca. There are reduced rates for students, seniors and non-profit organizations.

The Silver Economy Summit is hosted by the Department of Seniors. For more information, call toll free at 1-800-670-0065, 424-4649 in Halifax, or e-mail <silvereconomysummit@gov.ns.ca.>