Browse Ageing Policies

In Austria, the Competence Center Future Health Promotion (Kompetenzzentrum Zukunft Gesundheitsförderung) has developed a proposed model for municipal health promotion for healthy ageing in caring communities to address social challenges posed by demographic change. It comprises six main fields of integrated action: health promotion services and strengthening health literacy, health-promoting living spaces and facilities and businesses, neighbourhood assistance and volunteering, participation and development processes, promotion of civic engagement and care networks, a hub for networking and mediation of services for health promotion; and assessment, data and evaluation for planning and management. These were derived based on an analysis of 21 quality assured projects (for healthy ageing) and a participatory stakeholder consultation to discuss ways to institutionalize the proposed model across Austria to sustainably strengthen coordinated, feasible and evidence-based community health promotion for healthy ageing.

The "Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care - Recommendations on Screening for Primary Prevention of Fragility Fractures" was published by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care in 2023. Funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada and implemented at the national level, this initiative targets community-dwelling adults aged 40 and older, particularly females aged 65 and above. It aims to reduce the incidence of fragility fractures among older persons, a significant health concern that can lead to disability, hospitalization, long-term care admission, and diminished quality of life. Key measures include risk assessment-first (FRAX) screening for females aged 65 years and older to estimate fracture risk as a preventive measure. The guideline further recommends Bone Mineral Density (BMD) testing only for females aged 65 and above who are aware of their fracture risk and express interest in preventive treatment. Notably, the Canadian Task Force guidelines are independent of the Government of Canada and are not formally endorsed.

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 "Public Opinion Research on Canadians' Perspectives on Healthy Aging at the Start of the Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021-2030" was introduced in 2023 by the Public Health Agency of Canada as part of Canada’s contribution to the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030). Implemented at the national level and led by the Public Health Agency, this research targets Canadians aged 50 and older. It aims to understand the enablers and barriers that impact quality of life in older age. Key measures include conducting public opinion research to gather baseline data on Canadians’ views regarding healthy ageing, which will guide Canada’s efforts to enhance the well-being of older Canadians throughout the Decade and beyond. Findings show that older Canadians generally hold a positive outlook on ageing, though perspectives vary across diverse sub-groups, including gender, socio-economic status, geographic location, racialized groups, newcomers, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.

The "Working Together to Improve Health Care in Canada: Aging with Dignity Bilateral Agreements" was introduced by the Government of Canada in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments in 2023-24. Implemented at the national level and led by the Minister of Health, this initiative targets older persons across Canada and aims to enhance the quality, accessibility, and dignity of home and long-term care services. Key measures include $3 billion over five years to improve the availability and quality of long-term care, ensuring that national standards are applied and permanent improvements are made. Additionally, $2.4 billion over four years is dedicated to expanding home care services, allowing individuals to age at home as long as possible, in line with the Common Statement of Principles on Shared Health Priorities. To support these services, $1.7 billion over five years is allocated to improve working conditions and wages for personal support workers, who play a critical role in home and long-term care. These priorities are supported by federal investments totaling $200 billion over ten years through the "Working Together to Improve Health Care for Canadians Plan" announced in February 2023, with funding adjustments planned in 2024-25 to further strengthen support workers’ conditions.

The "Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)" was introduced by the Government of Canada in 2023 as a national initiative to improve access to dental and oral health care for uninsured Canadians with annual family incomes under $90,000, with no required co-pay for families earning below $70,000. Implemented at the national level and led by the federal government, this plan targets vulnerable populations, including older persons, especially those in remote communities or requiring specialized care. Key measures include the Oral Health Access Fund, which provides targeted investments to address oral health gaps among underserved populations and reduce barriers to care in rural and remote areas. For older persons, the plan covers essential services such as preventive (cleaning), diagnostic (exams, x-rays), restorative (fillings), endodontic (root canals), periodontal care, and dentures, including repairs. Many older individuals are now receiving dentures for the first time. As of August 2024, over 2,228,000 older persons have enrolled, representing over 60% of Canada’s eligible older population. It is anticipated that the CDCP will lead to better health outcomes for all beneficiaries, including older persons, with fewer visits to the emergency room and reduced pressure on the health care system.

The "Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework" was initiated in 2023 by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), following a commitment in the 2021 mandate letter of the Minister of Indigenous Services. Implemented at the national level and led by ISC, this framework targets Indigenous populations, particularly those in need of long-term care, aiming to ensure Indigenous people have equitable access to high-quality, culturally safe long-term care services in or near their communities and to strengthen First Nations and Inuit control and autonomy over these services. Key measures include ISC’s funding of two existing LTCC-like programs: the Assisted Living (AL) program, which provides non-medical and social support services for older persons, adults with chronic illness, and those with disabilities on reserves or in Yukon, and the First Nations and Inuit Home and Community Care (FNIHCC) program, which funds medical in-home and community care for First Nations people on reserves and Inuit people north of the 60th parallel. ISC also initiated community engagements across First Nations and Inuit communities, collecting insights from stakeholders of the AL and FNIHCC programs. In May 2023, the Ontario Native Welfare Administrators’ Association (ONWAA) released the final First Nation’s engagement report, “National Community Engagement in First Nation Long-Term and Continuing Care (LTCC)”.

The "Mistreatment of Older Persons: Federal Policy Definition - Explanatory Document" was introduced by the Government of Canada on October 11, 2023. Implemented at the national level and prepared by Employment and Social Development Canada, this policy targets older persons, aiming to raise awareness of their mistreatment and to establish a common understanding for informing government programs and policies. The federal policy definition is not a legal definition; rather, it serves as a tool for cultural change and public awareness to support the prevention of mistreatment and guide related federal efforts. The explanatory document outlines various components of the definition, detailing types and forms of mistreatment, their significance, and the nuances associated with their inclusion. This document was authored by Marie Beaulieu, Ph.D., and Kevin St-Martin, M.S.S./M.S.W., and is intended to enhance understanding and support initiatives aimed at countering the mistreatment of older persons in Canada.

"The ""National Strategy on Long Term Care and Active Ageing 2023-2030"" was introduced in 2023 by the Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity in Romania. Implemented at the national level and led by the Ministry, this strategy targets older persons (65+) and the long-term care (LTC) workforce. It aims to promote independent living among older persons for as long as possible and enhance access to equitable and sustainable long-term care services. Key measures include strengthening the responsibility and management of LTC services, ensuring a continuum of care that respects fundamental rights, and establishing sustainable financing for the LTC system. The strategy addresses disparities in LTC service availability and affordability, particularly in regions where services depend on local authority resources. Outcomes also focus on enhancing LTC quality, supporting the formal and informal LTC workforce, and encouraging active social participation for older persons. This approach aims to reduce dependency on residential care by fostering community-based services that prevent institutionalization. Monitoring and evaluation are conducted by the Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity, ensuring continuous improvements in social assistance for Romania’s ageing population."

The "Programme on Active and Healthy Ageing for the Years 2023–2027" was introduced in 2023 by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection in Moldova. Implemented at the national level and led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, the programme targets individuals aged 60 and above. It aims to mainstream the principle of active ageing across all sectoral policies, reduce discrimination and stereotypes toward older people, and consolidate the efforts of all stakeholders to promote policies that address the needs of the ageing population. Key measures include integrating ageing considerations into regional and local development projects, implementing workplace mentoring involving older persons, and expanding the national statistical framework on ageing indicators, such as healthy life expectancy and access to cultural services. Additionally, the programme promotes lifelong learning through the "University for the 3rd Age" initiative, pilots sports and cultural services adapted for older people, and enhances community mobilization services for older persons. The programme also includes an Active Ageing Small Grants Programme and the development of a National Platform of ICT Equipment for Older People, ensuring accessible digital resources. Partnering entities include the Ministries of Education, Infrastructure, Culture, Health, and Internal Affairs, alongside local authorities and research institutions.

The "Survey on the Profile of Older Persons" was conducted for the first time in 2023 in Türkiye by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TURKSTAT) in collaboration with the Ministry of Family and Social Services (MoFSS). Implemented at the national level, this survey targets older persons to gather concrete data that will inform policy and service development for Türkiye’s ageing population. The survey aims to consolidate existing data and obtain indicators of older persons' welfare, serving as a foundation for creating effective social policies for this population. Key measures include collecting demographic and socio-economic data disaggregated by age and gender to provide insights into older persons’ living conditions. The results of the survey were shared with the public in March 2024. As a result of the Survey, demographic and socio-economic data disaggregated on the basis of age and gender were obtained, which will be the basis for the formulation of social policies for older persons.

The Final International Conference of the Project “Work Ability Management” was held in 2023 in the Czech Republic by Age Management, z.s. in collaboration with organizations from Germany, the Netherlands, Hungary, and Slovakia. Implemented at the international level, the project targets ageing employees, aiming to promote work ability as a comprehensive approach to health, employment, and lifelong learning to enable employees to balance work, personal, and family life. Key measures include the collection of examples from each participating country on measures to support ageing employees and compiling them into a publication. It also developed new methodologies for working capacity applicable to both employed and unemployed persons, focusing on those at risk of reduced working capacity and helping them find their way back to the labour market. These methodologies are designed to advance the promotion of work ability not only in the participating countries but also in other interested countries. The project results emphasize that understanding work ability can enhance labour market positions for both employed and unemployed individuals, while supporting preventive programs in physical and mental health and lifelong learning may positively influence retirement; additionally, the "Digital Coach" web platform, available in five languages, was developed to support these goals.

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 “National Strategy on Long-Term Care and Active Ageing for the Period 2023–2030” was introduced in 2023 in Romania by the Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity (MMSS). Implemented at the national level and led by MMSS in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, local authorities, and non-governmental organizations, this strategy targets all older persons in Romania, particularly people over 65, especially those in rural areas or in economically and socially vulnerable conditions. It aims to address the challenges of an ageing population by establishing a comprehensive long-term care (LTC) system that ensures all dependent older persons have access to adequate support, care, and assistance by 2030. Key objectives include strengthening accountability and management of LTC services, ensuring a continuum of care that respects fundamental rights, and providing sustainable financing for the LTC system. Specific measures focus on improving infrastructure, expanding home care services and day care centres, and implementing programs to prevent social isolation and abuse of older persons. Additionally, the strategy emphasizes protecting and strengthening the formal and informal LTC workforce through training programs for caregivers. Expected results include increased access to integrated LTC services, a lower dependency ratio, and improved health and well-being for older persons.

The Labour Law (Law No. 4857) of Türkiye has the purpose to regulate the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees regarding working conditions and the work environment. The main stakeholders involved are employers, employees, and employer representatives. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security oversees the implementation and enforcement of the law. This law applies to all workplaces, employers, and employees, except for specific exceptions such as maritime and air transport, agricultural enterprises with fewer than 50 workers, and family businesses. It covers the entire national territory of Turkey. Article 4 focuses on the exceptions, as the law does not apply to certain jobs and work relationships. Article 5 focuses on the topics of non-discrimination, as the employers cannot discriminate based on language, race, colour, gender, disability, political opinion, philosophical belief, religion, or similar reasons, equal treatment (part-time and full-time employees, as well as those with fixed-term and indefinite contracts, must be treated equally unless there are essential reasons), gender equality (no lower wages for the same or equivalent work based on gender. Protective provisions for gender should not justify lower wages), and on compensations (employees can claim compensation if discriminated against, up to four months' wages, plus any other rights they were deprived of). It was adopted on May 22, 2003, and published in the Official Gazette on June 10, 2003.

The National Action Plan on the Rights of Older Persons (2023–2025) is a strategic initiative by the Government of Türkiye, led by the Ministry of Family and Social Services, in collaboration with various government agencies, local authorities, civil society organizations, and international bodies. It complements the broader Ageing Vision Document, targeting older individuals in Türkiye, particularly those facing challenges related to social services, healthcare, and participation in social and economic life. It aims to mainstream the concepts of ageing and the rights of older persons into the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation processes of policies, programmes, and services. Key measures include establishing specialized healthcare centres for older persons and providing mobile health services in remote areas. These healthcare centres will be equipped with medical facilities and staffed by professionals trained in geriatric care, providing services such as routine check-ups, chronic disease management, and rehabilitation. To ensure accessibility for those in rural or underserved areas, mobile health units will bring essential medical services directly to older persons who may otherwise lack access to care. Additionally, the policy mandates the implementation of age-friendly urban planning initiatives, including the installation of ramps, elevators, and other mobility aids in public spaces and buildings.

The Ageing Vision Document is a strategic framework introduced in 2023 by the Government of Türkiye, guided by the Ministry of Family and Social Services. It is implemented between 2023 and 2025 at the national level, alongside the National Action Plan on the Rights of Older Persons. It aims to ensure that older persons in Türkiye can live dignified, independent, and active lives. It targets older persons who face challenges in accessing social services, healthcare, and participating in social and economic life. Key measures include urban planning initiatives to make public spaces, transportation, and housing more accessible to older persons. This involves installing ramps, elevators, and age-friendly public facilities to help older persons live independently and fully engage in society. The policy also establishes specialized healthcare centres for older persons and provides mobile health services in remote areas to ensure comprehensive and accessible healthcare. Additionally, the policy mandates the creation of emergency response plans, including evacuation procedures that consider the mobility limitations of older persons and establishing specialized shelters to meet their needs during disasters.

The Long-Term Care and Active Ageing Strategy aims to ensure access to adequate support, care, and assistance for all older persons in Romania, regardless of location or income, by 2030. It focuses on the sustainability of financial and human resources for the ongoing development of the long-term care system. The strategy involves the Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity, local and central public administration authorities. The policy covers the entire nation of Romania, targeting the older population, especially those over 80 years old, who require long-term care services. The strategy aims to enhance the administrative capacity to manage long-term care services effectively, improving service performance, developing social services, ensuring sustainable financing, and implementing the principle of “funding following the beneficiary.” Additionally, priority support is given to home and community care, allowing older persons to live independently for as long as possible. The strategy is a continuation of the National Strategy for Active Ageing (2015–2020) and responds to demographic, epidemiological, and social trends in Romania. It also addresses issues highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The strategy is set for the period 2023–2030.

The Programme on Active and Healthy Ageing for 2023–2027 was approved by the Government of the Republic of Moldova in 2023. It is led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, involves national and local stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society, and development partners like UNFPA and UNECE. It is implemented at the national level, targeting older persons across the Republic of Moldova. It aims to improve access to social services, integrate ageing into sectoral policies, and enhance community participation. Key features include expanding social services in 50 communities, such as creating new day centers and home care services, and improving access to essential services like sanitation, water, and waste collection in regions with significant older populations. The programme also focuses on fostering regional economic and social development to directly benefit older persons. Additionally, it integrates ageing into five key sectoral policies, enhances digital literacy among older persons through the creation of a national ICT platform, and supports lifelong learning opportunities aligned with the "2030 Education Development Strategy." The programme emphasizes the collection of systematic statistical data to monitor the integration of ageing across all sectors. It aims to raise the Active Ageing Index from 28.7 points in 2020 to 36.8 points by 2027.

The "Draft Regulation for Integrated Community Assistance" was introduced by the Government of the Republic of Moldova in 2023, building upon earlier pilot projects in three districts, including the integrated care model approved by the Falesti District Council at the end of 2020. It is implemented at the local level in the Republic of Moldova, specifically involving local public administrations (Level I and II) and community-based institutions. The regulation aims to integrate health, social, and other services for continuous, comprehensive support, promoting a shift from a disease-centered to a person-centered care model, particularly focusing on the complex needs of vulnerable populations. To develop the capacities of those involved in the process and to establish an efficient management in the field of integrated care, seminars are organized on basic elements of integrated care, organizational culture and individual-centered approach, involving experts from the International Foundation for Integrated Care. The regulation also places special emphasis on community involvement, encouraging the support of vulnerable groups through volunteers and civil society organizations. Local public administrations and other cooperating entities are required to ensure the necessary infrastructure and funding for service delivery, including transportation, home care, and cleaning services.