Nova Scotians Invited to Help Develop Aging Strategy
SENIOR CITIZENS' SECRETARIAT--Nova Scotians Invited to Help Develop Aging Strategy
The provincial government is asking for the public's help as it makes plans for an aging population.
Senior Citizens' Secretariat chairperson Angus MacIsaac released the Discussion Paper for Positive Aging in Nova Scotia today, Oct. 20, as part of government's Task Force on Aging initiative. The discussion paper will serve as the foundation for consultations being held throughout the province over the next six weeks.
"With more than 700 Nova Scotians turning 65 each month, and considering that our current population of seniors (131,000) is expected to nearly double by 2026, it's time to prepare for the effects an aging population will have on nearly every sector of our society," said Mr. MacIsaac.
"Government has an important role to play in providing leadership at this critical juncture. The work of the Task Force on Aging reinforces our government's commitment to improving life for older Nova Scotians so they can live longer, healthier, secure and productive lives now and well into the future."
The Discussion Paper for Positive Aging proposes a vision, guiding principles, nine priority goals and several societal actions needed to achieve each goal. Topics for discussion include providing for the financial security, health, caregiving, transportation and housing needs of seniors, as well as ways to reduce social isolation, create inter-generational bonds, and optimize seniors' participation in society through employment and volunteer opportunities.
Responses to the discussion paper will be used to develop a strategy that will guide government planning for the next decade and beyond.
"This is a long-term planning initiative that is central to the health and equity of our society," said Valerie White, executive director of the Senior Citizens' Secretariat. "It is vital that governments at all levels, business, the voluntary sector, seniors and the general public participate in this process. We hope the discussion paper and the public meetings generate the kind of grassroots, provincewide feedback we need to ensure the strategy reflects the desires and insights of all Nova Scotians."
Nova Scotians are invited to respond to the discussion paper at 33 public meetings being held throughout the province from Monday, Oct. 25 to Friday, Dec. 3. Those wishing to make a presentation are asked to book a time in advance of the meeting.
Copies of the discussion paper and a detailed list of public consultation locations are available on the website at www.gov.ns.ca/scs or by calling the Senior Citizens' Secretariat at 424-0065 or toll free at 1-800-670-0065.
Comments on the discussion paper can also be provided by e-mail to [email protected] , by fax to 902-424-0561, by mail to Valerie White, Executive Director, Senior Citizens' Secretariat, P.O. Box 2065, Halifax, NS B3J 2Z1 or by calling 424-0065 or 1-800-670- 0065. The deadline for submissions is Friday, Dec. 31.