Nova Scotia to Host National Gerontology Conference

The latest in Alzheimer's research will be just one of the highlights of a national gerontology conference this fall.

The Canadian Association on Gerontology's 34th annual scientific and educational meeting will be held at the Westin Nova Scotian Hotel in Halifax from Thursday, Oct. 20 to Saturday, Oct. 22. Hundreds of health professionals, government officials, academics and students are expected to participate in the conference, which will feature the latest information in the field of gerontology.

"The conference will bring together the best and brightest minds in the field of aging," said Angus MacIsaac, chair of the Seniors' Secretariat. "We are very proud to be hosting this year's event. Seniors in Nova Scotia and across the country will benefit from experts sharing their knowledge and working together to overcome our challenges."

The official opening session will showcase an original dramatic presentation, written specifically for the conference by the IronDale Ensemble Theatre. It will interpret the positive and realistic challenges of aging. The opening will also feature a tribute to Betty Havens, one of the founding members of the Canadian Association on Gerontology.

Along with the latest in Alzheimer's research from Dr. Kenneth Rockwood of the Dalhousie Faculty of Medicine, keynote sessions and workshops will feature topics such as dementia, comparative social relations, frailty and rural aging.

"This year's conference promises to enlighten, educate, entertain and raise awareness of issues in the field of gerontology," said Valerie White, executive director of the Seniors' Secretariat and chair of the conference.

The theme for the conference is Navigating the Winds of Change. The theme was chosen to reflect that much is being done to ensure smooth sailing as a growing number of Canadians navigate the aging process. Nova Scotia has the third-oldest population in the country and the number of seniors is expected to nearly double by 2026.

"Hosting a conference of this magnitude will enhance our understanding of the effect of population aging on the future quality of work life here and in all of Canada," added Ms. White.

To take advantage of early registration fees, participants are encouraged to register before Sept. 21. For more information see the Canadian Association on Gerontology website at www.cagacg.ca or phone the Seniors' Secretariat at 902-424-0065 or toll free 1-800-670-0065.