Active ageing (infosheet)

Europe has seen much economic and social progress over the last 50 years and – although there are large regional and social differences – Europeans are living longer than ever before, on average eight to nine years more than in 1960. The increased lifespan is great news but also poses many questions for individuals, their families and for social systems. Other demographic developments reinforce the challenges: fewer children are being born which means fewer people paying into state pension and healthcare systems, as well as a smaller pool of potential carers. Policymakers are beginning to reconsider the role of older people in society as both providers and consumers.