Nova Scotia's Population Aging

Nova Scotia's population continues to age at a rapid pace.

This information, released Tuesday, July 17, from Canada's 2006 Census, shows Nova Scotia remains the oldest province in Atlantic Canada and the second oldest in the country.

The percentage of the population 65 and older in Nova Scotia increased to 15.1 per cent in 2006 - from 13.9 percent in the last census in 2001.

"An aging population is precisely why government created the Strategy for Positive Aging in Nova Scotia," said Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, Minister of Seniors. "Our partnership with the Halifax Regional Municipality on the World Health Organization Age-Friendly Cities project and the Silver Economy Conference being planned for next year, are examples of two significant initiatives that will maximize opportunities and ensure our communities support healthy, active aging."

The Seniors' Secretariat will continue to work with government partners at all levels and assist communities with the development of creative, resourceful and cost effective approaches to population aging.

"The best strategies are ones that build on the contributions of seniors, encourage collaboration, increase sensitivity and respond to a wide range of issues, as well as promote creative approaches to many aspects of healthy aging," said Valerie White, CEO of the Seniors' Secretariat.

The statistics released Tuesday further indicate the importance of working to promote ways to reach the goals outlined in the Strategy for Positive Aging in Nova Scotia.

"We will continue to work with seniors throughout the province to make Nova Scotia a vibrant and healthy province in which to live," said Ms. Bolivar-Getson.