Participation

Participation of older persons refers to their active involvement in a wide range of activities, including leisure pursuits, cultural events, volunteering, political engagement, and social interactions. Participation contributes to older persons' well-being, sense of belonging, and quality of life. It enriches communities by sharing knowledge, experience, and diverse perspectives. By fostering their participation, societies can create environments where older people feel valued and empowered.

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Austria

2023

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.

HealthParticipation

Lithuania

2024

The “National Week of Older Persons” was held in 2024 in Lithuania to celebrate the International Day of Older Persons. Implemented at the national level, this initiative targets older persons and is organized with the aim to promote social activity among seniors and foster a positive image of ageing in society. Key measures include organizing over half a thousand various activities and events held for older persons in 45 Lithuanian municipalities during the week. During the week, older persons could visit museums, cinemas, and art galleries; have coffee or cake at cafes; exercise in sports clubs; take part in excursions to the country's archives; attend trainings and seminars organized by public health offices; receive special medical rehabilitation services tailored to them; and spend meaningful time at events planned by municipalities specifically for older persons. Such an initiative, which is becoming traditional, makes an important contribution to motivating older people, promoting their social activity and promoting a positive image of older people and ageing in society.

AgeismParticipation

Lithuania

2024

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.

HealthParticipation

Russian Federation

2019

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.

Age-friendly environmentsParticipation

Republic of Moldova

2023

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.

Mainstreaming ageingParticipation

Germany

2024

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.

Age-friendly environmentsParticipation

Germany

2017

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.

Lifelong learningParticipation

Germany

2020

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.

Lifelong learningParticipation

Germany

2021

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.

Lifelong learningParticipation

Germany

2022

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.

Lifelong learningParticipation

Germany

2022

The “Federal Government's Strategy to Counter Loneliness” was introduced in 2022 in Germany by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ). It was voted on by the federal ministries and resulted in a cabinet decision on December 13, 2023. Implemented at the national level, this strategy targets all age groups, with a particular focus on older persons to address loneliness and social isolation. The strategy’s five main goals are to raise public awareness to destigmatize loneliness, strengthen scientific knowledge, reinforce practical interventions, foster cross-sectoral actions to address the complexities of loneliness, and support affected individuals, with a focus on the needs of older persons. Key measures include 46 overarching and 65 individual measures for both the prevention and alleviation of loneliness, reflecting the urgency of the issue. The BMFSFJ is funding several projects specifically for older persons through the European Social Fund (ESF Plus) programme titled “Strengthening the Participation of Older People - Countering Loneliness and Social Isolation”, which launched in October 2022 and includes over 70 projects continuing until 2027. To bolster research, the first Loneliness Barometer was published in May 2024 as a monitoring tool to track loneliness trends.

HealthParticipation

Germany

2021

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.

Age-friendly environmentsParticipation

Luxembourg

2023

The High Council of Older Persons is a consultative body of the Government, tasked with examining all issues related to older persons and making improvement proposals. It provides opinions and advises, more specifically, the Minister of Family, Integration, and the Greater Region on matters concerning older persons. The Council consists of 13 members delegated either by organizations for older persons or by organizations working in the interest of older persons. Additionally, there are co-opted members selected for their professional expertise in law, medicine, care, social work, human sciences, or gerontology, or for their social commitment. The Council members serve a two-year term. The Council addresses relevant issues in thematic working groups, such as: - The reform of dependency insurance. - The financial needs of retired individuals. - Municipal policies in the interest of older persons. The High Council of Older Persons was established by the law on the service quality for older persons, which was passed by the Chamber of Deputies on July 20, 2023

Mainstreaming ageingParticipation

Poland

2021

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.

Age-friendly environmentsParticipation

Kazakhstan

2021

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.

Age-friendly environmentsParticipation

France

2020

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.

EmploymentParticipation

Belarus

2020

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.

Mainstreaming ageingParticipation

Bosnia and Herzegovina

2020

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.

Lifelong learningParticipation

Slovakia

2019

The Strategy of Digital Transformation of Slovakia 2030 is a framework inter-departmental government strategy that defines the policy and particular priorities of Slovakia in the context of digital transformation of economy and society under the influence of innovative technologies. This involves transitioning from an industrial society to an information society, focusing on innovative technologies like AI, IoT, 5G, big data, blockchain, and HPC to drive economic growth and competitiveness. It is a cross-sectorial policy, and it is coordinated by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic for Investments and Informatization (ODPMII), in collaboration with other central state administration bodies. The strategy has a national scope, aiming to digitize the entire economy and society of Slovakia. It targets all Slovak citizens, entrepreneurs, and sectors such as education, public administration, and infrastructure development. Key interventions include the digital transformation of schools and education, creating a basis for a modern data and digital economy, and improving public administration's ability to use data and innovations. Implementation involves regulatory and non-legislative measures, investments in digital economy, and integration of initiatives under one digital agenda. In terms of timeframe, the strategy covers the time between 2019 and 2030.

Lifelong learningParticipation

Azerbaijan

2019

The "Silver DOST Volunteers" sub-program, jointly organized by the DOST Volunteer Program and the “Third Spring” project, aims to promote an active lifestyle for retirees and support effective organization of their leisure activities. The program engages older citizens in volunteer work at DOST centers, helping them stay active and involved in their communities. The program operates nationally, targeting retirees who are willing to contribute to society through volunteer work at DOST centers. Key features include involving retirees in activities such as welcoming citizens, providing information, directing individuals to relevant specialists, and conducting satisfaction surveys regarding services received at the centers. The program facilitates intergenerational cooperation by allowing retirees to work alongside younger volunteers, promoting knowledge exchange and mutual support. The sub-program has been in operation since 2019 and continues to offer meaningful opportunities for retirees to stay active, contribute to community life, and enhance their social engagement.

Participation

Participation

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Participatory development of the “Municipal Health Promotion for Healthy Ageing – Caring Communities” model

National Week of Older Persons

Social prescription project

Involvement of older people in regional programmes on active longevity and healthy life expectancy to maintain high social activity

Programme on active and healthy ageing for the years 2023–2027

AGIL – age-appropriate, communal and inclusive living

Service center “Education and learning for older persons”

Ageing well with AI

Digital Pact for Older People

Digital Angel PLUS

Federal Government's Strategy to counter Loneliness

Workshop for the Future of Municipalities

High Council of Older Persons

“Senior+” Day Care Centres

Active Longevity Centres

The senior inclusion contract

National Strategy “Active Longevity – 2030”

Strategy for Adult Education for 2021–2031

Strategy of Digital Transformation of Slovakia 2030

Silver DOST Volunteers

Filter

Participatory development of the “Municipal Health Promotion for Healthy Ageing – Caring Communities” model

National Week of Older Persons

Social prescription project

Involvement of older people in regional programmes on active longevity and healthy life expectancy to maintain high social activity

Programme on active and healthy ageing for the years 2023–2027

AGIL – age-appropriate, communal and inclusive living

Service center “Education and learning for older persons”

Ageing well with AI

Digital Pact for Older People

Digital Angel PLUS

Federal Government's Strategy to counter Loneliness

Workshop for the Future of Municipalities

High Council of Older Persons

“Senior+” Day Care Centres

Active Longevity Centres

The senior inclusion contract

National Strategy “Active Longevity – 2030”

Strategy for Adult Education for 2021–2031

Strategy of Digital Transformation of Slovakia 2030

Silver DOST Volunteers