Browse Ageing Policies

The "Enhancing the Age-Friendly World Web Platform and Global Database of Age-Friendly Practices" project was initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2024, with support from a grant by the Public Health Agency of Canada. Implemented at the international level, this initiative targets global communities working to support healthy ageing. It aims to expand the Age-Friendly Communities (AFC) model worldwide by modernizing the Age-friendly World web platform and broadening access to resources that promote healthy, active living for older persons. Key measures include the modernization of the Age-friendly World platform and the Global Database of Age-Friendly Practices, along with the creation of Knowledge and Action Hubs. These hubs will increase access to evidence-based tools and guidance to inform local, evidence-based actions and reduce inequities in access to age-friendly resources. In the longer term, the project seeks to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange across communities worldwide and increase the global uptake of the AFC model, leading to improved health outcomes and quality of life for older persons in communities implementing the model. The project is expected to be completed in 2027.

The "Knowledge and Action – Building Capacity on Age-Friendly Environments" project was initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2023 and is supported by a grant from the Public Health Agency of Canada. Implemented at the international level, this project aims to support the global uptake of the Age-Friendly Communities (AFC) model by improving access to capacity-building resources, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Key measures include adapting the existing MENTOR-AFE distance mentoring program into additional languages, formats, and geographic contexts, including the Americas, Africa, and Central and Eastern Europe. Additionally, the project will develop an introductory online course on age-friendly environments to make resources and successful experiences accessible to jurisdictions less advanced in AFC implementation. The immediate outcome will be improved availability and access to high-quality online and in-person mentoring and learning opportunities on age-friendly communities and environments (AFE) for both English and non-English speakers. Over the longer term, the project aims to increase the global uptake of the AFC model, resulting in positive health impacts and enhanced quality of life for older persons in communities implementing the model. The project is scheduled for completion in 2025.

The "Promoting Wellness and Independence Older Persons in Custody - A Policy Framework" was introduced in 2018 by Correctional Service Canada (CSC) to address the unique needs of older persons in federal custody. Implemented at the national level and guided by CSC, this policy framework targets the ageing prison population, which is growing due to population ageing, late-life sentencing, and longer sentences. It aims to promote wellness and independence for older persons in custody by building on existing programs and services. Key measures include a holistic, person-centred approach that is age, gender, and culturally appropriate. This framework emphasizes health and well-being, tailored programming, suitable living accommodations, and community engagement. Developed in consultation with experts in geriatrics, gerontology, law, Indigenous health, and correctional health, the framework is informed by both domestic and international research. Ongoing discussions with stakeholders in gerontology, correctional health, ethics, and community contribute to this framework, which is intended as a living document that evolves with emerging data and needs.

The "RCMP Seniors Guidebook to Safety and Security" was introduced in 2022 by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) as a public resource to support older persons and those around them in addressing common safety and security concerns. While not a policy, this guidebook is available nationally and is intended for older persons, their family members, caregivers, friends, and any others who may benefit from understanding issues related to safety and security. It aims to provide accessible information that encourages discussions about safety, helps recognize potential crime situations, and outlines ways to reduce or remove associated risks. Key measures include guidance on recognizing crime risks specific to older persons and strategies to mitigate these risks, encouraging proactive safety discussions. The guidebook was updated on September 28, 2022, to include information related to the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting recent developments and emerging safety concerns. This resource serves as a preventive tool to enhance community awareness and support safe, independent living for older Canadians by empowering individuals and their networks with essential safety information.

The "Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit" was introduced by the Department of Finance Canada in Budget 2022 and implemented by the Canada Revenue Agency. This policy, effective from January 1, 2023, operates at the national level and targets adults with disabilities who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (18 years and older) and individuals aged 65 and over. It aims to support multigenerational living by providing financial assistance for home renovations that establish a secondary dwelling unit for eligible persons to live with a qualifying relation. Key measures include a refundable 15% tax credit on up to $50,000 of eligible renovation expenses, which can be claimed once per eligible person over their lifetime. Eligible renovations must be made to the principal residence of the qualifying individual and can be claimed by the eligible person, their spouse or common-law partner, and a qualifying relation who owns the dwelling. Qualifying relations include family members such as parents, grandparents, children, siblings, aunts, uncles, nephews, and nieces. Although data is not yet available due to the measure’s recent implementation, it is projected to cost approximately $25 million CAD for the 2023 tax year.

The "Home Accessibility Tax Credit" was introduced in 2015 by the Department of Finance Canada. Implemented at the national level by the Canada Revenue Agency, this policy targets persons with disabilities who are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit and adults aged 65 and older, aiming to support home modifications that improve accessibility and safety. The tax credit provides a non-refundable 15% credit on up to $20,000 of eligible renovation or alteration expenses per calendar year, allowing qualifying individuals and their eligible family members to claim these expenses on their tax return. Eligible expenses include home renovations or alterations that help qualifying individuals access their home, increase mobility and functionality within it, or reduce the risk of harm within or around the dwelling. The eligible dwelling must be the principal residence of the qualifying individual and can be owned by the individual, their spouse or common-law partner, or an eligible family member. In 2020, approximately 32,000 individuals claimed this credit, with a total program cost of roughly $15 million CAD, helping to enable ageing in place and enhance the quality of life for qualifying Canadians.

The "Age Well at Home (AWAH)" initiative was introduced in2021 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 "Supporting Canadians Aging at Home: Ensuring Quality of Life as We Age" report was developed in 2024 by the National Seniors Council (NSC) in Canada. Implemented at the national level and guided by the NSC, this initiative targets older persons, aiming to examine measures that could further support Canadians to age at home or in their community. As part of this examination, the NSC reviewed literature, examined existing measures, conducted engagement activities, and gathered evidence on gaps and areas of greatest needs. The outcome is a report containing 20 recommendations and advice for the federal government. These recommendations align with the five domains of the Quality of Life Framework for Canada—Prosperity, Health, Society, Environment, and Good Governance—and the NSC’s four priority policy pillars: Affordability, Accessibility, Availability, and Accountability (4As). The findings and recommendations provide insights into measures that can support aging at home in Canada while improving or maintaining quality of life as people age. The NSC’s work was supported by officials from Employment and Social Development Canada, Health Canada, and the Public Health Agency of Canada, ensuring a coordinated approach to address the needs of Canada’s ageing population.

The "Involvement of Older People in Regional Programmes on Active Longevity and Healthy Life Expectancy to Maintain High Social Activity" was introduced in 2019 by the constituent entities of the Russian Federation under the federal project "Older Generation" of the national project "Demography". Implemented at the regional level and led by each region’s local authorities, this initiative targets senior citizens, focusing on promoting active longevity and healthy life expectancy. It aims to improve health, extend the period of active participation, and enhance social connectivity among older persons. Key measures include introducing new healthcare and social protection technologies, promoting healthy lifestyles, and organizing lifelong education in the "third age," including pre-retirement preparation. Each region customizes its programmes based on local needs and budget to ensure older citizens maintain high social activity levels. The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Russian Federation oversees these initiatives as part of the 2021–2025 Action Plan within the Strategy for Action in the Interests of Senior Citizens. As of 2023, these programmes have reached 12 million older persons, reinforcing their role in society and supporting active, healthy ageing.

The "AGIL – Age-Appropriate, Communal and Inclusive Living" pilot programme was introduced in 2024 in Germany by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ). Implemented at the national level and accompanied by the FORUM Gemeinschaftliches Wohnen e.V. (Federal Association for Communal Living), this programme targets older persons and aims to develop and promote living environments that support self-determined ageing in familiar surroundings. The programme’s primary goal is to support generation-appropriate housing that allows individuals to remain at home and live independently even when long-term care or support becomes necessary. Key measures include funding building and investment projects in both rural and urban areas that integrate technology-assisted housing and accessible infrastructure to accommodate the needs of older persons. AGIL emphasizes strengthening communal living by enhancing participation, counselling, and assistance services and promoting community spirit through meeting places and neighbourhood initiatives. It also highlights best-practice examples that showcase how self-determined living in old age can be achieved, with a focus on accessible, supportive, and inclusive environments. The programme is geared towards private initiatives and organizations as well as municipalities or stakeholders from the housing and social sectors.

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 "Senior+" Day Care Centres are an integral part of the Polish Government's multi-year program, introduced in 2021, and will end in 2025. It aims at enhancing the social participation and quality of life for older persons. These centers are developed and managed by local government units, with financial support provided through two primary modules. Module 1 offers one-time financial aid for the creation and equipping of new centers, while Module 2 provides ongoing funding for the operation of existing centres. The centres provide services such as social services (meals and social support), educational programmes (workshops and lectures), cultural activities (trips and theater visits), physical activities (exercise classes and rehabilitation), and recreational services (sports and games). In 2022, the programme facilitated the creation of 111 new support centres, including 21 Day Care Centres and 90 Clubs, adding 2,425 new places for seniors with a total investment of 60 million PLN. The initiative also included financial provisions for infrastructure and operational costs, ensuring that the centers can sustainably provide essential services and foster active ageing among older persons.

The initiative aims to establish a network of Active Longevity Centres across all regions of Kazakhstan to improve the quality of life for older citizens by promoting active ageing, fostering a culture of health, and encouraging community engagement. These centres focus on shifting perceptions of ageing from passive to active, healthy, and dignified longevity. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of Kazakhstan, with contributions from the Ministries of Health, Culture and Sports, and local executive bodies. The project was discussed by the Interdepartmental Commission on Improving the Situation of Older Citizens, chaired by Vice Minister. The project targets the population aged 65 and older. Active Longevity Centres offer a variety of services, including yoga, Nordic walking, medical, psychological, and legal consultations, IT and language training, cultural outings, and community engagement activities. They are funded through local budgets, with a focus on providing health support and fostering a barrier-free environment for older citizens. As of January 1, 2023, there are a total of 63 centers operating throughout the country. The initiative was launched in February 2021, with centres planned to be operational in all regions by the end of 2021 and the project continuing through 2025.

The Supporting Older Americans Act of 2020 is the reauthorization of the Older Americans Act (OAA). The objectives of the act are to modernize and improve the OAA programs, address the needs and preferences of older adults, and reflect the input of various stakeholders. The institutions involved in the act include the Administration for Community Living, the state and area agencies on ageing, and the service providers. The scope of the act covers older individuals who are at risk of losing their independence due to poor health, disability, or social isolation, with priority given to those with the greatest economic or social need. The act includes the reauthorization and revision of various OAA titles, such as supportive services, nutrition services, caregiver support, elder justice, and Native American programs. The act also introduces new provisions, such as statutory authority for the National Resource Center for Women and Retirement, a demonstration project for recruiting and retaining direct care workers, and increased funding for disease prevention and health promotion activities. The outputs of the act are expected to improve the quality of life, health outcomes, and to reduce the demand for costly institutional care. The act was signed into law in 2020.

The SALAR 10-year strategy for older people is a 10-year strategic policy framework initiated by the Government of Sweden in 2020 to transform and adapt the health, care, and welfare services for an ageing population. It is led by the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions (SKR) in collaboration with municipalities, regions, civil society organizations, and national government bodies. It is implemented at multiple levels, particularly at the municipal and regional levels. The policy targets older persons requiring long-term care, healthcare, and social support. The strategy is built on six key areas, including ensuring a sustainable supply of healthcare professionals, leveraging digitalization and welfare technology, and improving urban planning for diverse housing options. A strong focus is placed on personalized care, ensuring services are tailored to individual physical, psychological, and social needs, and promoting a person-centred care model that respects older persons' autonomy. The policy also stresses the importance of preventive care, early intervention, and equitable access to high-quality services, regardless of economic status or location. Furthermore, it highlights the need for accessible mental health services, the adoption of innovative technological solutions like telemedicine, data-driven decision-making, and enhanced transparency and accountability through regular service quality reports and audits.

The Coalition for Decent Longevity is an informal network comprising representatives from various organizations and experts dedicated to improving the quality of life for older people in Belarus. The Coalition's primary activities include preparing proposals for the content of the National Strategy for Active Longevity and other regulatory documents related to ensuring a dignified life for older adults. It also facilitates the exchange of information and best practices on activating older adults, enhancing their quality of life, and fostering intergenerational dialogue. Additionally, the Coalition organizes discussion platforms to address issues concerning the protection of the constitutional rights and interests of older people, counters ageism, and increases the capacity of organizations working in this field. The Coalition plays a crucial role in initiating and promoting research focused on the needs and conditions of older adults, as well as the quality of services provided to them. It also advocates for raising public awareness about the real situation of older people in Belarus and works on creating a positive image of older adults in the media. The Coalition actively engages in public discussions on matters related to decent longevity and monitors the effectiveness of the National Strategy for Active Longevity and other related plans. Since its establishment in 2018, the Coalition has contributed significantly to the development of the National Strategy “Decent Longevity – 2030” and has organized the Academy of Golden Age Leaders for activists involved in self-governance in universities for the third age and other platforms aimed at empowering older adults. It also hosted the first Belarusian Forum “Decent Longevity: Equal Opportunities for All Generations,” which brought together over 200 participants from all regions of Belarus, as well as experts and guests from Austria, Germany, Israel, Kazakhstan, Russian Federation, Ukraine, Sweden, and Switzerland. Additionally, the Coalition developed an interactive Decent Longevity Map, providing information about organizations and initiatives focused on enhancing the quality of life for older citizens.

The National Minimum Standards for Care Homes outline regulatory frameworks and specific criteria applicable to care homes catering to older individuals with varying dependency levels, including specialized units for dementia care. Recognizing the unique needs of each resident, the Standards establish minimum requirements for operational and managerial competencies to ensure the delivery of individually tailored, comprehensive, and high-quality services. Applicable to all care homes requiring registration and annual licensing, the leading principles encompass person-centered care, dignity, privacy, physical and mental well-being, self-fulfillment, autonomy/empowerment, equality, the right to complain, and the right to legal recourse, fostering active ageing in home cares. They are developed by Parliamentary secretariat for rights of persons with disability and active ageing. These Standards serve as a tool for independent regulators through regular communication with residents, families, staff, and managers. Assessment methods include observation of daily life and home management, audits of written policies and procedures, and scheduled/ad hoc inspections. By emphasizing these principles and assessment approaches, the Standards aim to uphold the quality and individualized nature of care provided in care homes for older individuals.