Nova Scotia's Department of Seniors and the Halifax Chamber of Commerce are wrapping up their fourth annual Silver Economy Summit, called AdvantAGE: Embrace the Boom, at the new Halifax Convention Centre today.

The two-day conference brought together governments, businesses, and entrepreneurs to discuss the needs and interests of the aging population and find new ways to tap into the growing “silver economy”.

"By 2030, more than one in four Nova Scotians will be over the age of 65," said Leo Glavine, Minister of Seniors. "This conference provides an opportunity for people from all sectors to come together with innovative ideas that capitalize on this shift.”  

The summit wasn’t just for seniors. It also opened its doors to students, caregivers and any individual interested in new growth opportunities for the region.

R3 Conference in NB To Focus on Aging

The summit discussed how technology can add value to the province’s aging population through sessions and workshops on active living, understanding technology and social engagement. Gretchen Addi, a consultant and designer-in-residence with Aging2.0, held a workshop that challenged the preconceptions of designing for the aging population.

"Nova Scotia has the fastest-aging population in Canada," said Patrick Sullivan, the President and CEO for the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. "Our province has a unique opportunity to become a world leader in improving the older population’s quality of life.”

The conference is ending with a keynote address by Ted Graham, the Head of Open Innovation at General Motors.