Browse Ageing Policies

The main objective of the Social Inclusion for Persons with Mental Disabilities Project, funded by the European Union IPA II, coordinated by the World Health Organization in cooperation with the Ministry of Family and Social Services and the Ministry of Health, is to contribute to social inclusion efforts for persons with mental disabilities through quality community-based support services. It started to be implemented with the agreement signed in July 2018. One of the various activities carried out within the scope of the project is the "Annual Conference 3 and Second Meeting of the Pan-European Mental Health Coalition Local Action Regional Exchange". The conference, which was held in Ankara on November 23-24, 2022 as a hybrid, focused on four thematic areas: "mental health leadership", "mental health and well-being of older persons", "mental health in emergencies" and "transformation of mental health services". With parallel sessions focusing on different topics, the aim was to enable participants to participate in discussions about areas of interest and study. A poster area was built where examples of good practices from the Republic of Türkiye and the countries of the European Region were presented. Expected outcomes of the project include: 1) Establishment and implementation of a national model for community-based care services for persons with mental disabilities. 2) Policymaking, planning, implementation, and regulation of services for persons with mental disabilities based on evidence. 3) Creating modules on person-centred approach to increase the competent workforce applying evidence-based treatment methods in the care of persons with mental disabilities.

The project Care and Rehabilitation Support Service for Persons with Disabilities and Older Persons Affected by the Earthquake was developed by the Ministry of Family and Social Services in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Adiyaman and Kahramanmaras. The project aims to ensure the care and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities and older citizens living with their families in container cities affected by the devastating earthquake that occurred across 11 provinces in Türkiye on 6 February 2023. The project includes the establishment of care and rehabilitation units, employment of specialized personnel, and provision of personal care items and essential assistive devices. Mental health services and psychosocial services are provided to persons with disabilities and older persons in need.

The project, launched in 2024, contributes to a systemic solution in the field of mental health services, strengthening family relationships and intergenerational communication by creating a network of 46 family counselling centres in Slovakia. In the centres, free psychological counselling is provided to individuals, couples and families regardless of age. It is one of the specific tools to support the mental and social health of the Slovak population. The Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family of the Slovak Republic targets this measure to every individual, couple, and family that needs support and help in the face of situations and problems that cannot be solved without professional assistance. In the previous pilot project five centres were created in five cities in Slovakia. In 15 per cent of the cases the psychological help was provided to persons over the age of 55.

The National Helpline in Support of Mental Health was established by the Ministry of Health of the Slovak Republic in July 2021 as a part of the efforts in Slovakia’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (as a part of Component 12, support of mental health). The main aim of the helpline was to alleviate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. The helpline was highly used by senior citizens. Operation of the helpline was extended until May 2023 to help alleviate the impact of war in Ukraine on mental health of the citizens. Services were provided by professionals in the field of mental health, in particular psychologists specializing in clinical psychology and psychiatrists with certification in psychotherapy and crisis intervention (in total 29 professionals).

The operating model provides tools for identifying, addressing and strengthening factors related to the mental well-being of informal carers. It is intended for informal care client counsellors and professionals encountering informal caregivers. The operating model provides means for bringing up and strengthening mental well-being both in encounters with informal caregivers and, where applicable, in group activities. Even brief encounters with informal caregivers provide an opportunity to discuss mental well-being. The best thing is, of course, to allow plenty of time for discussion. In some situations, the presence of a family member in need of help may affect the discussion. In such cases, it is a good idea to consider how discussion with the informal caregiver could be possible in private. Professionals must have competence in mental well-being and its reinforcement as well as the ability to identify and encounter situations where informal caregivers need more help to look after their own well-being. Plenty of information and concrete instructions and exercises are available on how to strengthen mental well-being. They can be used both in their own work and as tips for informal caregivers.

The objective of the project, carried out between 2021 and 2023 in 14 municipalities of Western and Central Uusimaa as part of the implementation of the National Mental Health Strategy, was to increase the competencies of professionals regarding the mental well-being of older persons and the means to promote it by developing a new operating model. Focus groups with older persons and professionals working in services for older persons were interviewed in the process. Competencies targeted by this new operating model and accompanying guidelines and recommendations included knowledge, practical skills and systematic operating practices. Separate coaching paths were designed for different operating environments (home care, 24-hour care, day activities) expanding participants' mental health competence and know-how. The programme developed and piloted 30 practices to promote mental well-being according to different operating environments. As a result of these practices, strengthening the mental well-being of older persons was integrated into the everyday work of professionals working in services for older persons.

The project, which was developed by TREXIMA and Age Management, targets employees in the Czech Republic, specifically focusing on sectors such as manufacturing, transport and storage, and health and social care. The analysis considers various demographics like age and gender. The project employs the Work Ability Index (WAI), a scientifically validated tool, to measure and evaluate work ability. The project had two stages: identifying at-risk sectors (2021) and conducting pilot measurements in specific industries (2022). The study aligns with national frameworks on ageing and includes both general and sector-specific recommendations. The evaluation includes mental health aspects, revealing that 36.5% of employees sometimes feel positive about the future, with 31.9% feeling positive quite often. The project's structured approach and evidence-based recommendations make it a model of good practice.

The COVID-19-related health crisis has highlighted various shortcomings in the care and support of the mental health of older persons, particularly those living in residential care homes. To address these, the Walloon Agency for a Quality Life (Agence Wallonne pour une Vie de Qualité – AVIQ) has hired coordinating psychologists in seven pilot institutions. The latter are responsible for cooperating with the existing psychiatric home care services for older persons (soins psychiatriques pour personnes agées à domicile), developing a mental health network in nursing homes, raising awareness among caregivers in the field by setting up specific and thematic workshops, and working in partnership with the establishment’s coordinating physician. The primary objective is to improve the psychological monitoring of older persons living in residential care homes and to reduce mental health disorders in nursing homes (and care homes). At the same time, the AVIQ also wishes to better equip the teams and promote well-being at work.

The main objective of the Austrian Austrian Dementia Quality Register (DQR) is to collect socially and health-related data on people with dementia in Austria and their care using scientifically defined indicators and, based on this, to bring about an improvement in the care landscape. The project aims to improve the quality of care and the quality of life for people with dementia and their relatives. It will contribute to provide important new information on the current care of dementia patients and at the same time map developments in care and nursing. The lead entity is the Austrian National Public Health Institute Gesundheit Österreich GmbH (GÖG) on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (BMSGPK). The steering group consists of the BMSGPK, GÖG and representatives of the Austrian Alzheimer Society (ÖAG). Reporting stakeholders who are relevant to the care provided in the context of dementia diagnosis (e.g. general practitioners, memory clinics, mobile care services, etc.) play an active role in data collection. The register thus pursues the overarching goal of optimizing the diagnosis, treatment and care of people with cognitive disorders and their caregivers. An initial pilot will take place in selected areas in summer 2024 to test the variables and determine a final data set.

The "Age Well at Home (AWAH)" initiative was introduced in 2021 by the Government of Canada in 202 as a $90 million federal grants and contributions program aimed at helping older Canadians to age in place, scheduled to run until 2025-26. Implemented at the national level and led by Employment and Social Development Canada, this initiative targets low-income and vulnerable older persons. It aims to provide practical in-home supports and expand successful ageing-in-place programs to improve quality of life for those wishing to remain at home. Key measures include two streams of activity: the In-Home Practical Supports Pilot Projects stream and the Scaling Up for Seniors stream. Under the In-Home Practical Supports Pilot Projects stream, eligible organizations deliver volunteer-based support services such as meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, and assistance with navigating local services to vulnerable older persons. Meanwhile, the Scaling Up for Seniors stream allows organizations to expand regional and national projects that have shown success in helping older persons to age at home, fostering innovation and identifying effective new approaches.

The "Social Prescription Project" was introduced in 2024 in Lithuania by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Culture to support retirees’ psychological well-being and mental health. Implemented at the national level and coordinated by public health office project coordinators, this initiative targets older persons, particularly those at social risk, experiencing bereavement, or loneliness. It aims to strengthen psychological well-being and mental health among older persons by engaging them in free, long-term cultural, wellness, non-formal education, and other community-based activities. Participation in these activities helps create social connections that reduce social exclusion, alleviate anxiety, manage chronic diseases, and improve the psychological state and mental health of older people, while also reducing the stigma of disability. Key measures include allowing family doctors or primary mental health care teams to refer older individuals to local classes and activities — such as cultural, scientific, sports, or volunteering events — available in their municipality. As part of the project, a family doctor or primary mental health care team member can refer older individuals to local classes, such as cultural, scientific, sports, and volunteering activities, held in their municipality of residence. These activities are designed to promote active social engagement and psychological resilience.

The "Service Centre 'Education and Learning for Older Persons'" was introduced in 2017 in Germany and is managed by the German National Association of Senior Citizens' Organisations (BAGSO). Implemented at the national level, this project targets older people to provide them with access to educational opportunities and support multipliers in educational work through qualifications in educational gerontology. The project aims to empower older persons by enabling lifelong learning and promoting active participation in society as they age. Key measures include operating a service telephone and the internet portal Wissensdurstig.de, which provides a wealth of useful materials, good practice examples, and online workshops. The portal serves as a comprehensive resource for older persons seeking educational opportunities and for educators specializing in gerontology. Additionally, the service centre provides information on various educational topics, supports the development of local learning opportunities, and fosters networking among educational providers to enhance the quality and accessibility of education for older persons.

The "Ageing Well with AI" project was introduced in 2020 in Germany and is managed by the German National Association of Senior Citizens' Organisations (BAGSO). Funded by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ) under its AI funding guidelines, this project is implemented at the national level and targets older people and older persons' organizations to increase their understanding and engagement with artificial intelligence (AI). The project aims to equip older persons with knowledge about AI, empowering them to actively participate in discussions on ChatGPT, pattern recognition, and self-learning algorithms. It also seeks to ensure that older persons are recognized and considered in AI research and development, supporting the inclusion of their perspectives in the creation of new technologies. Key measures include providing various event formats, such as idea workshops, qualification sessions, and online lectures, to make AI concepts accessible and relevant to older audiences.

The "Digital Pact for Older People" was introduced in 2021 in Germany and is managed by the German National Association of Senior Citizens' Organisations (BAGSO). Implemented at the national level, this project targets older people to promote digital participation and improve access to digital technologies in their daily lives. The project aims to highlight the opportunities created by digitalization and enable access to digital tools in the areas of social life, housing, health, and mobility, dedicating half a year to each dimension. It brings together federal and state governments with business, research and civil society partners in a network to promote and strengthen the digital participation of the target group. Key measures include establishing a network among federal and state governments, business, research, and civil society partners to foster collaboration. In addition, the project provides basic digital skills training to older persons through nearly 300 local learning places across Germany. So far around 36,000 people have been able to benefit from this project.

The "Digital Angel PLUS" project was introduced in 2022 in Germany, funded by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ) and managed by Deutschland sicher im Netz e.V. (DsiN). Implemented at the national level, this project targets older persons, particularly those in rural regions, to support their digital literacy and safe technology use. The project aims to enhance digital inclusion for older people by addressing both the benefits and risks of smartphones, tablets, and other digital tools in an increasingly digitalized world. Key measures include mobile advisory teams that travel across Germany in two buses, offering in-person guidance and support. The project extends its reach by integrating volunteers completing a voluntary social year (FSJ) with welfare organizations. Additionally, training courses for knowledge brokers are provided, which cover modules on various digital topics, such as education in old age, technology requirements, and funding opportunities. So far around 10,000 people have been able to benefit from this project.

The “Workshop for the Future of Municipalities (WFM)” was introduced in 2021 in Germany by the German Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ). Implemented at the national level, this project targets all age groups within 40 municipalities, particularly in structurally weak regions. It aims to help municipalities adapt to demographic change and become more attractive for all generations in all phases of life while supporting business development. Key measures include providing external consulting to participating municipalities until the end of 2024 to help them find solutions and develop demographic strategies that also cover integration and take all age groups into account. The project emphasizes the development of concepts to shape the consequences of demographic change in municipalities (neighbourhoods in large cities, towns, communities, districts), to develop concrete factors for attraction and retention, strengthen municipal identity, and integrate people with a migration background into an intact social community. Additionally, concrete projects will be launched, and existing initiatives will be integrated and networked in a meaningful, effective and long-term way. By strengthening municipal identity and creating an inclusive social community, WFM fosters environments where older persons can stay actively engaged and feel valued.

The Project "Work Ability Management" No. 2020-1-CZ01-KA204-078204 Erasmus + Program Key Action 2 Strategic partnerships for adult education was introduced in 2020 in the Czech Republic under the Erasmus+ Program Key Action 2 for Strategic Partnerships in Adult Education. Led by Age Management, z.s. in collaboration with partners from Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, and Slovakia, the project is implemented at the international level, targeting both employed and unemployed adults. This project aims to equip organizations with goal-oriented strategies to address demographic challenges through age management, to ensure that older workers are supported in maintaining work ability and that workplace designs are attractive and flexible for both younger and older employees. Key measures include applying the Work Ability Model and Work Ability Index (WAI), a tool that assesses the alignment between individual resources and work demands. The project uses written and oral surveys, workshops, and counseling sessions to identify needed changes and recommend measures that enhance work ability. Project outputs include an electronic publication, "Supporting Ageing in the Workplace," and a methodology for managing work ability targeted at those employed, considering a career change, or unemployed. The “Digital Coach” web platform further supports this by offering resources and guidance.

The Annual "All-Russian Computer Multisport Championship among Pensioners" has the purpose to enhance digital literacy among Russian pensioners, promoting their engagement with modern technology and improving their financial literacy in the digital sphere. The championship is organized by the Union of Pensioners of Russia and Moscow State Humanitarian and Economic University, with support from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Russian Federation. Regional and municipal authorities, along with regional branches of the Russian Pension Fund, are also involved. The championship targets pensioners across Russia, including men over 60 and women over 55, as well as individuals with disabilities aged 35 and above. The competition is conducted at municipal, regional, and federal levels, with the final stage held in Moscow. Participants must demonstrate their skills in using the Yandex search engine, smartphone applications, and financial literacy. The competition themes are “Preservation of National Traditions of Russia” and “Health in Old Age as the Main Value of Life.” The event includes both in-person and remote formats, with specific measures to include older people and those with disabilities. The Championship was first initiated in 2022.

The Digital Spring Project, initiated in 2021 and ongoing, is led by the Ministry of Family and Social Services at the national level in Türkiye. It targets older persons in nursing homes across the country, aiming to increase the participation of older persons and their families in social life, enhance their independent living skills through digital technology, and encourage practices that improve quality of life. Key measures include free, voluntary digital literacy training. The training project was launched in 5 pilot nursing homes in Istanbul in 2021 and has expanded to 43 provinces by September 2023, helping 1,923 older persons receive digital and financial literacy training under the ministry. It also established 10 "Digital Spring Rooms" in 9 nursing homes. In these rooms, older persons can actively use technology tools and the Internet to meet, see, and hear the voices and images of their distant loved ones.

The “Dying at Home” pilot programme was launched by the German Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women, and Youth (BMFSFJ) in late 2020, aiming to support hospice and palliative care projects that allow individuals at the end of life to stay in familiar surroundings. This programme, implemented at the national level, specifically targets hospice and palliative care providers across Germany. It provides financial support to 10 selected projects, which are expected to serve as models for broader care development. The programme's key features include fostering projects that emphasize social space orientation and local care needs. It also promotes partnerships within communities, encourages the involvement of underserved groups, and supports volunteer engagement in hospice care. Additionally, these projects aim to reduce the burden on families caring for their loved ones by enhancing the infrastructure of care and ensuring that those at the end of life can maintain a high quality of life, dignity, and social participation. Through these efforts, the programme seeks to strengthen the overall hospice and palliative care system.