Province to Host Second Silver Economy Summit

The province is hosting the second Silver Economy Summit, focusing on how older Nova Scotians can contribute to the workforce, community and volunteer needs.

International and local experts will also discuss how businesses can market and develop new products, and governments can adapt services, to meet seniors' needs and interests. The summit will be held in Halifax from May 22 to 24.

"People are living longer and can contribute so much to their communities, their families and our workforce with the right opportunities and support," said Seniors Minister Denise Peterson-Rafuse. "If we open more doors for seniors, that benefits everyone -- businesses and communities who need their talent and experience, and older Nova Scotians who want to continue living productively and independently for as long as possible."

Nova Scotia has the oldest population of any province in Canada. Each month, about 1,000 people turn 65 years old in the province.

"This creates a growing market for Nova Scotia businesses and requires governments to change how they deliver services," Ms. Peterson-Rafuse said.

International experts in business, non-profit, academic and public sectors will host discussions and workshops on several topics that challenge perceptions about aging.

"Our business is all about making the connection between the experience seniors have, and the expertise businesses need," said Rick Emberley, CEO of BoomersWork. "The Silver Economy Summit gives us the venue to explore new ways to maximize this potential with employers, while giving seasoned workers the flexible options they want."

Paula Fitzsimons, one of a number of keynote speakers, will follow up on her session at the first summit in 2010 speaking about developing and implementing public policy around senior entrepreneurship in the European Union.

"I am delighted to be returning to Nova Scotia," said Ms. Fitzsimons. "The second summit is shaping up to be another great event, and I am looking forward to listening and learning from the other speakers and participants."

To register, or for more information, visit www.silvereconomysummit.ca/.

The province continues to make life better and more affordable for seniors and their families by supporting seniors' efforts to live independently, while working collaboratively with communities to create places where Nova Scotians can live and age well.