Finding Seniors' Resources
Getting the Best out of Retirement
The Arts
Nova Scotia is right in artistic talent and opportunities to discover your creative side. Whether studying, creating or simply enjoying, there are many activities that can reward and fulfill your most creative urges. You may also want to visit the Vacationing and Recreation In Nova Scotia life event.
Community ArtsIf you have a love of the Arts, you may want to contact one of the arts organizations listed below for further information on programs, classes and activities in your area.
- Visual Arts Nova Scotia
- Atlantic Canada Craft Trade Show
- Canadian Authors Association
- Canadian Conference of the Arts
- Canadian Crafts Federation
- Council for Business & the Arts in Canada
- Craft Links
- Inuit Art Foundation
- Society of Canadian Artists
- Visual Arts Nova Scotia
- Writer's Federation of Nova Scotia
- Halifax Regional Municipality Community Recreation Services
The The Nova Scotia Film Development Corporation will provide a loan to qualified Nova Scotian residents or companies to support the process of development that takes an idea for a film or television production through the stages of research writing, market analysis and costing.. The National Film Board of Canada produces and distributes films, audio-visual and multimedia works which reflect Canada to Canadians and the rest of the world.
Community Involvement and VolunteeringWe are all part of our community and there are many ways in which we can all be involved. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
Community GroupsGet to know new people who share the same interests as you. Contact your local municipal office for information on groups in your area.
The Royal Canadian LegionThe Nova Scotia / Nunavut Command branches of The Royal Canadian Legion run various programs offering opportunities for social interaction.
Nova Scotia Seniors' OrganizationsThe Nova Scotia Seniors Citizens' Secretariat is a government agency where seniors and their families can obtain information about programs and services for seniors
VolunteeringVolunteering helps build strong and prosperous communities. See the links below to learn how you can help the community you live in and make a real difference for people.
- Volunteer Canada - Canada's site for information on volunteering
Volunteers who work with vulnerable people may be asked to participate in a screening program. This will help create a safer environment for volunteering that benefits us all.
Awards for SeniorsThe Nova Scotia Provincial Volunteer Award is given to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the voluntary sector in their community. The Order of Nova Scotia encourages excellence by recognizing Nova Scotians for outstanding contributions or achievements. There are also other national awards given to outstanding Canadian volunteers.
- Remarkable Seniors Awards - These awards are presented annually, at the 50+ Expo, to individuals aged 50+ who have made an outstanding contribution to the province of Nova Scotia in the areas of community service, volunteerism, and leadership. For more information, contact: Senior Citizens' Secretariat, 1740 Granville Street, 4th Floor, PO Box 2065, Halifax, NS B3J 2Z1, Phone: (902) 424-0065, Toll-free: 1-800-670-0065, E-mail: scs@gov.ns.ca, Website: http://www.gov.ns.ca/scs
- Nova Scotia Provincial Volunteer Award
- Order of Nova Scotia
- Congratulatory Message Service Request (birthday and anniversary greetings)
- National Awards
The following sites will help you contact your political representative:
Nova Scotia Municipalities- Municipal Information - profiles and Web sites
Create a legacy for your children, do a family tree. There are many government and community resources available.
- Public Archives of Nova Scotia
- Genealogical Research
- Heritage Directory of Nova Scotia - Archives, Museums and Other Heritage Resources
- Nova Scotia Vital Statistics: Registrations of Births, Marriages and Deaths
- Library and Archives, Canada
- The Genealogical Association of Nova Scotia
- Genealogical Resources
- Canadian Virtual War Memorial - A database of gravesites and memorials of Canadians who have died in service for their country during time of war.
Seeking part-time or full-time employment? We have gathered a few Web sites that you may find useful while searching for a job:
- Nova Scotia Government job listings
- Federal Government job listings
- Other employment opportunities and job searches resources
- Information network of work-related resources
Stimulate your mind and explore the many opportunities available to continue learning throughout your life.
School Boards of EducationMany school boards offer a wide variety of continuing education courses at local schools.
Universities and CollegesNova Scotia's universities and colleges have many opportunities for continued and distance education, through day, evening, or weekend classes. Please contact your local university or college for a calendar or for more information regarding continuing education opportunities. Prior to registration, inquire whether there are any special programs or rates for seniors.
Distance Education and other Learning OpportunitiesHave you ever wanted to attend a visual arts program or take a course on philosophy? Many programs and courses are available by distance education or online and some offer special rates for seniors.
- Distance Education Links
- CATALIST - The Canadian Network for Third Age Learning
- Information resource site featuring Continuing Education programs in your community.
When was the last time you went to your local library? Remember it's important to keep both your body and mind active. Every public library has computers and Web access.
The OutdoorsThere are few places that can compare with Nova Scotia's great outdoors, from small city parks to tree-lined streets, to the magnificent north and our unrivaled provincial parks. From hiking trails in unspoiled wilderness, to simply tending your own flowerbed, learn more about our outdoor wealth.
GardeningPlant a seed and watch it grow. The links below will help you find more information on gardening in Nova Scotia
FishingAnglers enjoy some of the best sportfishing in the world right here in Nova Scotia. Whether you are a sportfishing enthusiasts or a beginner Nova Scotia offers something for everyone.
- Agriculture and Fisheries - Sportfishing information including species factsheets and the stocking program
- Nova Scotia Fishing
From small wayside stops to large natural environment parks, Nova Scotia Parks offer spectacular scenery, beautiful beaches, relaxing campsites, and a wealth of outdoor experiences.
Many provincial parks offer barrier free access for persons with disabilities.
- Park Facilities for Senior Citizens and People with Disabilities
- Information on Barrier Free Access can be found on the individual park information pages of Nova Scotia Provincial Park Web site and is identified by the Facilities for Disabled symbol.
Clean Nova Scotia is a non-profit, non-government environmental organization established in 1988.
- Clean Nova Scotia Foundation
- Volunteer Opportunities
- New Conservation Licence Plate - The Conservation licence plate will allow Nova Scotians to show their support for protecting species at risk in Nova Scotia. More..
There are various programs that allow you to be as busy or as relaxed as you like, whether physically active or community-involved, there is something for everyone.
Active LivingMaintaining a healthy lifestyle is important to your physical and mental well being. Sport and Recreation Nova Scotia and Health Canada's Fitness/Active Living unit promotes active living.
- Nova Scotia Health Promotion Physical Activity, Sport and Recreation
- Fitness and Active Living
- Physical Activities for Older Adults Guide
This once yearly events helps seniors create better lives. The expo showcases life-enhancing information, products, services and opportunities for people 50+.
TravelIt is said that half the fun of any trip is getting there. A bit of planning and preparation can go a long way to making your travels as unforgettable and rewarding as possible.
Travel Information- Travel at Home and Abroad: Your gateway to government services relating to travel
- Travel Reports
- A guide for air passengers with carry-on baggage
- Travel Planning Tips for Consumers
Travelling abroad? Don't forget your passport!
- How to obtain a Canadian Passport
- Passport Applications
- Contact the appropriate Foreign Representative in Canada for information on obtaining a passport of a country other than Canada
You need a visa to enter many foreign countries even as a tourist. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan on visiting to determine if you require a visa.
Travel Health InformationFor information on what services are covered by your Nova Scotia Health Card in other Canadian provinces or other countries, please call (902) 496-7008 or Toll Free: 1-800-563-8880
- Traveller Information: Guided Overview of Travel Health and Safety
- Travel Health Advisories - featuring a list of Travel Clinics should you need vaccinations
For information on obtaining private insurance, please contact your travel agent or an insurance agent.
Travel Destinations & IdeasThere are many travel destinations and ideas to choose from. There are many discounts for seniors at various tourist sites across Nova Scotia.
- Tourism Nova Scotia
- Visit the Vacationing and Recreation in Nova Scotia Life Event and discover this amazing province.
- Provincial and Territorial Tourism Links
- Destination Information - learn about the places you'll be visiting
- Elderhostel
- Outward Bound