The Nova Scotia Centre on Aging (NSCA) was established in 1992 with the mandate of applied research, continuing education and community outreach/consultation in age-related issues.
The NSCA is affiliated with Mount Saint Vincent University's (MSVU) Department of Family Studies and Gerontology. The NSCA works in partnerships with others - the academic community, governments, private sector, seniors, and voluntary/professional organizations - on initiatives which will benefit the aged, their families, and communities.
The NSCA has received recognition for its research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration and partnerships with stakeholders. The NSCA, through its networks, expertise and publications, is a resource to university scholars, students, community-based researchers, practitioners, educators, government, service providers, seniors' and professional organizations, media, and families.
The NSCA has undertaken research projects, continuing education initiatives, and community outreach activities to address ways to promote and maintain autonomy and quality of life for the elderly population and their families. These initiatives are financially supported through external granting agencies and contracts, private foundations (e.g., Crabtree, Max Bell, Merck Frosst), and the F.R. MacKinnon Fund.
The NSCA's main areas of expertise are focused on issues related to family caregiving, continuing care, and healthy aging. Project topics have included: age-friendly communities, human resource planning, caregiver support, seniors housing, prescription drug use, technology and older adults, and Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias.
Initiatives at a Glance
- Conducts applied research
- Coordinates local, regional, provincial and national projects
- Develops multi-sectoral partnerships and project teams
- Conducts program/project evaluation studies
- Acts as a resource centre
- Coordinates public lectures/workshops/exhibits
- Offers continuing education sessions for professional and lay groups
- Organizes conferences, forums and symposiums
- Develops educational materials such as manuals and videos
- Produces publications
- Disseminates information and materials
- Provides consultation to community, organizations, and government
- Collaborates and networks with community-based organizations
- Networks with other Centres on Aging in Canada