Display 1 - 20 from 21 policies
Austria
In 2020 a concept of an "early warning system" was developed based on the observation of existing data sources at the Public Health Institute Gesundheit Österreich GmbH on behalf of the Austrian Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection. The system draws on various sources including data from psychosocial hotlines, data regarding restraining orders, inpatient data, data regarding involuntary placements, and suicide data. The included data sets are continuously processed and validated and jointly analysed and interpreted. Selected results are published quarterly as factsheets and presented at various national and regional advisory boards and research conferences. The joint analysis of various indicators has made it possible to depict developments in the psychosocial health of the Austrian population, including among older persons, in a timely manner and to identify population groups that are especially affected.
Germany
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.
United States of America
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.
Sweden
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.
Slovenia
The main objective of the zaposli.me programme is to promote the employment of unemployed persons who are older than 50 years or are long-term unemployed or have low education levels. The policy aims to reduce their social exclusion and poverty and improve their employment opportunities. The policy is implemented by the Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities of the Republic of Slovenia. The policy covers both cohesion regions of Slovenia: Eastern Slovenia and Western Slovenia. The policy targets unemployed persons who are older than 50 years or are 30 or more years old and are long-term unemployed or have education below ISCED 3. The policy is expected to benefit around 4,800 persons. The policy provides subsidies to employers who hire eligible unemployed persons for full-time work for 12 months. The subsidies vary depending on the characteristics of the unemployed persons: 5,000, 6,000, or 7,000 euros. The policy also provides counselling and guidance to the unemployed persons and the employers to support their integration into the labour market. The policy started in January 2020 and ended in December 2022.
Serbia
The "Strategy for Digital Skills Development in the Republic of Serbia for the period 2020–2024" was introduced in 2020 by the Government of the Republic of Serbia, with a 1st Action Plan covering 2021–2022 and a 2nd Action Plan for 2023–2024. The strategy is implemented at the national level through a collaborative effort involving key ministries, such as the Ministry of Trade, Tourism, and Telecommunications, and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technological Development, along with international organizations like UNICEF and USAID (CFG), and initiatives like Propulsion's New Literacy project. The strategy aims to improve the digital knowledge and skills of all citizens, including members of vulnerable social groups, in order to enable the monitoring of the development of ICT technologies in all fields and to meet the needs of the economy and the labour market. It provides different trainings for learning basic digital skills that cover as many men and women citizens as possible, especially among older persons, as well as in areas perceived as having fewer ICT users, such as rural areas and smaller urban environments.
Romania
The Government Decision no. 426/2020 on the approval of cost standards aims to approve cost standards for the financing of social services provided by public social service providers. The policy involves the Romanian Government, specifically the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, the Ministry of Public Works, Development, and Administration, and the Ministry of Public Finance. The policy has a national scope, affecting local budgets and state budget revenues for social services across Romania. It targets social service beneficiaries, including children, adults with disabilities, older persons, and victims of family violence. The policy outlines cost standards for various social services, such as residential services for children and older persons, home care services for older persons, and services to prevent and combat family violence. It includes specific cost standards per beneficiary per year and stipulates that personnel expenses should not exceed 80% of the cost standard. The decision was enacted in 2020.
Portugal
The Extraordinary extension of unemployment benefit and social benefit was a policy introduced in order to provide financial support to those affected by the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. It aimed to extend unemployment benefits and social security benefits to ensure subsistence minima for individuals who have lost their income due to the crisis. The policy was implemented by the Government of Portugal, with the legislative framework provided by Decree Law No. 10-F/2020. The main stakeholders were the unemployed individuals, social benefit recipients, and the social security system of Portugal. This policy was national in scope, applying across Portugal. It targeted unemployed individuals and recipients of social benefits, ensuring they continued to receive financial support during the pandemic period. The policy included the extraordinary extension of unemployment benefits and all benefits of the social security system that guarantee minimum subsistence levels. It also suspended the evaluation of conditions (means test) for maintaining these benefits. The observed impact included providing a safety net for those whose income was disrupted due to the pandemic. It helped in preventing social hardship during a time of crisis. The policy was temporary, with the timeframe set from 12 March 2020 to 31 December 2020.
Latvia
The study “The prevalence of discrimination in the employment environment in Latvia” was conducted in order to explore the forms and types of discrimination faced by employees in Latvia during employment, understand employees' awareness of discrimination, and evaluate trends by comparing data with a 2011 study. The study was conducted by Norstat Latvia (project coordination and fieldwork) and Dentsu Data Labs (data analysis and report preparation). The study targets employees in Latvia aged 15 and above. It covers various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, trade, services, and others, and spans across different regions such as Riga, Pieriga, Latgale, Kurzeme, Vidzeme, and Zemgale. The study uses an online survey (CAWI) methodology. Key areas of focus include the prevalence of discrimination, types of information shared with potential employers, and sources of discriminatory attitudes. It also examines employees' willingness to seek help and the reasons for not doing so. The study notes that the level of discrimination in workplaces has remained almost unchanged since 2011, with 31% of employees hearing about discrimination cases among acquaintances. The fieldwork for the study was conducted from March 18 to March 30, 2020.
Italy
The Autonomous Province of Bolzano of Italy launched a campaign in 2020 to combat multigenerational stereotypes and promote understanding between age groups. It aligns with the Active Ageing Law by promoting a society where older individuals are respected and integrated, aiming to raise awareness of the social impact of generational stereotypes and foster solidarity across different age groups. The province provides a set of measures addressed to District Communities and Municipalities for the promotion of these campaigns. It was implemented at the regional level in Bolzano, Northern Italy, by the Department for Family, Social Affairs, and Community. It targeted the whole community, with a particular focus on younger and older populations. The campaign utilized public media, workshops, and educational programs to facilitate dialogue and break down prejudices. Collaborative efforts between NGOs, schools, and community groups further supported these goals. As a result, the initiative has helped to raise awareness, enhance social cohesion, and foster mutual respect between generations.
France
The Action plan for the professions of older persons and independent living aims to enhance the attractiveness of professions in care for older persons and autonomy sector, improve working conditions, and address the high demand for recruitment in this field. The policy involves the French Government, specifically the Ministry of Labour, Employment, and Insertion, and the Ministry of Solidarity and Health. Key stakeholders include regional health agencies (ARS), Pôle Emploi, and various professional branches within the care for older persons sector. This national policy targets professionals in care for older persons and autonomy, including those working in EHPADs (nursing homes) and home care services. It aims to address the needs of the ageing population across France. The policy includes several key strategies, such a revaluation of salaries with significant salary increases for care workers; urgent recruitment drives resulting in thousands of new hires; enhanced and expanded training opportunities to improve professional qualifications, and initiatives to improve working conditions and reduce job-related stress. Since its adoption, the policy has led to the recruitment of thousands of professionals and significant salary increases, improving the sector's attractiveness. The policy was adopted in October 2020.
France
The CDI inclusion policy aims to provide stable employment for individuals aged 57 and above who face significant social and professional challenges. It seeks to facilitate their transition from temporary to permanent employment within the framework of economic activity inclusion (IAE). The policy involves Structures for Integration through Economic Activity (SIAE), including Enterprises for Integration (EI), Temporary Work Integration Enterprises (ETTI), Intermediate Associations (AI), and Workshops and Integration Projects (ACI). The French Government, particularly the Ministry of Labour, Employment, and Integration, is a key stakeholder. The policy targets individuals aged 57 and above who have completed at least 12 months in an IAE pathway. It is implemented nationwide, affecting various sectors where SIAE operate. The CDI inclusion allows SIAE to offer permanent contracts to eligible individuals. It includes financial aid, calculated based on hours worked, to support these contracts. The policy also sets a limit on the proportion of CDI inclusion contracts within each SIAE, with possible exceptions granted by the prefect. The policy was adopted on December 14, 2020, with various measures coming into effect from December 16, 2020, and full implementation starting on September 1, 2021.
Finland
The Population Policy Report of Väestöliitto has the objective of promoting the well-being of the nation, ensure ecological sustainability, and uphold global responsibility. The policy emphasizes inclusive decision-making, human rights, and scientific evidence. The main institution involved is Väestöliitto, the Family Federation of Finland, along with various experts and organizations in Finland. The report targets the entire population of Finland, addressing issues such as birth rates, immigration, internal migration, and sustainable population growth. It aims to influence national demographic trends and regional development. Key strategies include supporting families to have their desired number of children, promoting family-friendliness, increasing immigration, and enhancing integration services. The policy also focuses on ecological sustainability and balancing economic and social stability. The report highlights the need for continuous monitoring and adaptation of population policies to address demographic changes and their effects on public finances, health, and regional development. The report was published in 2020, with ongoing implementation and monitoring to adapt to future demographic trends.
Finland
The National Programme on Ageing 2030 — For an age-competent Finland is a cross-administrative programme that aims to prepare for the population ageing and to promote the well-being, inclusion, and participation of older persons in all sectors of society. The programme was prepared by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health and other relevant ministries and stakeholders in 2020. The programme covers the whole population of Finland, with a special focus on older persons and risk groups that need preventive measures to improve their functional ability. The programme outlines six main impact objectives and corresponding measures. Some of the objectives are: 1) To direct to older persons and risk groups preventive measures that improve functional ability, 2) To extend the functional ability and working careers of older working-age people, especially in social and health care, and 3) To increase the age-friendliness of housing and residential environments. The programme also defines cross-sectorial objectives, such as influencing attitudes towards ageing, or identifying and making use of opportunities related to population ageing. In terms of timeline, the programme will be in force until 2030.
Estonia
The Estonia 2035 Strategy is a national long-term development plan that aims to increase the vitality of the Estonian nation, language, and culture, and to develop a democratic and secure state. The strategy is based on five strategic goals: 1) People 2) Society 3) Economy 4) Living environment, and 5) Governance. The strategy is implemented through sectoral development plans and Programme, as well as through the coordination of the European Semester, which serves as a basis for the planning of the European Union funds. One of the challenges that the strategy addresses is improving the accessibility and long-term care for older persons and people with disabilities. The strategy proposes some interventions to address this challenge, such as developing a comprehensive and integrated long-term care system, increasing the role and support of local governments and communities, and enhancing the prevention, early detection, and treatment of chronic diseases and mental health problems, among others. The strategy also defines some indicators and targets to measure the progress and impact of these interventions. The strategy is reviewed and updated every four years, based on the feedback and evaluation of the results. The strategy has a time horizon of 15 years, from 2020 to 2035.
Germany
The primary goal of § 16e SGB II is to integrate long-term unemployed individuals into the general labor market by enhancing their employability and facilitating their transition to unsubsidized employment. The policy is managed by the Federal Employment Agency and involves various job centers and employers. The policy targets long-term unemployed individuals who have been jobless for at least two years. It applies nationally across Germany and aims to support both men and women equally, with specific considerations for single parents and mothers in dual-income households. Key features include the introduction of wage subsidies which employers receive for hiring long-term unemployed individuals. Additionally, participants receive holistic support, including job coaching and training. The policy allows for part-time employment and gradual increase in working hours. Finally, in terms of monitoring and evaluation, the policy mentions regular assessments and adjustments ensure the effectiveness of the support provided. The policy has been in effect since October 14, 2020, with ongoing adjustments and updates.
Canada
The Government of Canada allocated $6.4 million in funding over two years (2020–2021) to Healthcare Excellence Canada to expand its LTC+ initiative. The primary objective of this initiative is to enhance pandemic preparedness in over 1500 long-term care facilities and seniors' residences across Canada. It achieves this by providing coaching and seed funding to address gaps in infection prevention and control measures. The initiative is facilitated by Healthcare Excellence Canada, with support and funding from the Government of Canada. The initiative targets over 1500 long-term care facilities and seniors' residences nationwide. Its beneficiaries include residents, staff, and administrators of these facilities who require support in enhancing their pandemic preparedness and infection prevention and control measures. The LTC+ initiative provides coaching and seed funding to support long-term care facilities and seniors' residences in improving their infection prevention and control practices. Through tailored coaching and financial assistance, the initiative aims to address specific gaps identified in pandemic preparedness.
Belarus
The National Strategy "Active Longevity – 2030" of the Republic of Belarus, approved by the Council of Ministers on December 3, 2020, aims to create an inclusive society for people of all ages, enabling older adults to realize their potential fully and effectively. The strategy seeks to enhance the quality of life for older citizens through the systematic adaptation of state and social institutions to population ageing. Key objectives include protecting the rights and dignity of older citizens, fostering their social inclusion and participation, encouraging longer working lives, and ensuring a comfortable income level. The strategy also aims to provide lifelong learning opportunities, expand access to education and skills development, create a safe and healthy living environment, and develop social services that contribute to a decent quality of life for older adults. Another priority is to establish infrastructure and living environments adapted to the needs of older people. To achieve these goals, the strategy outlines several initiatives: establishing councils for older citizens under local executive bodies; providing legal education; organizing clubs and interest groups for older people in cultural, trade union, and civil society organizations; and developing tourist routes across Belarus tailored for older adults. Other measures include offering educational courses, enhancing digital and financial literacy, training on using social networks and online payments, and improving medical workers' qualifications in geriatric care. Additionally, the strategy calls for the refinement of legislation governing social services for older adults and the creation of spaces for social interaction, cultural activities, and sports. The "Active Longevity – 2030" strategy represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities of an ageing society, promoting active participation and a high quality of life for older citizens in Belarus.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Government of the Republika Srpska adopted the Strategy for Adult Education in the Republika Srpska for 2021-2031. Adult education is, among other things, a manifestation of lifelong learning and an integral part of a complete and uniform system of education in the Republika Srpska. The mission of adult education is to provide adult citizens with the right to lifelong education and learning and thus contribute to their personal and professional development, better employment and social participation of citizens in the Republika Srpska. The basic way to support personal development and the ability of an individual is to remain healthy and active. The Training Programme and three specialization Programme have been declared publicly valid.
Albania
The National Action Plan on Ageing 2020–2024 for Albania addresses the rapid demographic changes and the absence of a traditional system of care for older persons aims in the country by aiming to integrate older persons into society, provide quality services, and ensure a healthy, productive life in alignment with EU guidelines for Life-Long Healthy Ageing. The plan has been spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection (MHSP), with the support of the UNFPA and other stakeholders. The plan identifies three policy priorities, namely Protection and Social Inclusion, Integrated Social and Health Services, and Health/Welfare Promotion and Raising the Awareness of Society. Under each priority, the plan sets out different policy aims, such as improve pensions, access to public transport, housing, and health and social care services for older persons, while recognizing the need for improved legislation, resources, and awareness to support the ageing population effectively. The plan foresees different monitoring mechanisms, that will be led by a thematic group focused on social inclusion, which will operate within the Integrated Policy Management Group (GIMP), will lead monitoring efforts. The implementation framework spans from 2020 to 2024.