Statistical Profile Released
Nova Scotia's seniors make up 13.7 per cent of the province's population and their numbers will increase dramatically in the future, says a new publication that analyzes Nova Scotia's aging population.
Released today, July 22, by the Senior Citizens' Secretariat, the report, A Statistical Profile of Nova Scotia Seniors, provides details of interest to present-day service providers and to policy makers of the future.
"This report will prove to be a valuable resource to those who work with seniors," said Jane Purves, Minister responsible for the secretariat. "The information is timely and provides an accurate picture of Nova Scotia's senior population."
The report includes such details as population characteristics, living arrangements and educational backgrounds of seniors. It is divided into sections that deal with prevalent issues among today's seniors, such as health, education and housing.
Nova Scotia has the oldest population in Atlantic Canada and the third oldest in Canada. Nova Scotia's seniors make up 13.7 per cent of the province's current population. It is estimated that by 2026, they will represent 25 per cent of the total population.
The report notes that, although the total population of Nova Scotia is expected to grow by only four per cent between 2000 and 2026, the senior population will almost double.
The population projections provided in the report will assist municipal planners, policy makers and those who work with seniors as they prepare to meet the needs of Nova Scotia's senior population.
Ms. Purves said it is important to stay informed about seniors' issues. "If we want to effectively care for our seniors, we must know what their needs are."
Copies of the report will be distributed to 150 seniors' organizations throughout the province, as well as officials who work with seniors. It will be updated regularly to ensure information remains current.
For a copy of the report, call toll-free 1-800-670-0065 or visit the secretariat's Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/scs .