Growth in public attendance at the second annual Toronto Zoomer show this year reinforced growing awareness of boomers as consumers. Over 22,000 people attended the show held at the Canadian National Exhibition grounds over two days October 31 and November 1.
“We talked about the changing face of retirement homes to hundreds of curious boomers and older seniors”, said Hugh Wesley, Executive Director of Comfort Life magazine. “We educated them about positive aspects of moving to a retirement home lifestyle,” he said. “And we gave away hundreds of copies of Comfort Life magazine, and enjoyed watching show-goers thumb through the guide looking for homes in their neighbourhoods.”
“It was interesting to note even the older 70-80 year olds, were verbalizing interest in apartment ownership vs rental. Some had friends or relatives living in retirement homes, but most were unaware of the differences between retirement homes and “old folks’ nursing homes.” he said.
Several retirement home communities had booths as well. Most were encouraged by attendance and interest.
Ross Mayot, Vice President, Community Development of CARP, said feedback was positive from the 252 booth participants. “In planning this show we deliberately stayed away from businesses presenting the typical side of aging, but concentrated more on vitality.”
