This workshop will explore and analyze various policies implemented by the European Union and the World Health Organization to improve the lives of older citizens in European countries. Expert exchanges between The Pass it On Network, Generation Bold and The Ageless Traveler, EAN Moderator and Jeunessima.
Featuring experts in European policy, representatives from the WHO, and advocates for senior rights, they will share insights into existing initiatives, challenges, and progress made in supporting active and inclusive citizenship for older individuals.
Themes to be addressed include the right to autonomy, access to healthcare services, social and political participation, and combating age-related discrimination.
“Silver Citizenship: The role of Older Citizens in European and International Policies”, expert exchanges with the participation of:
- Moira ALLAN – Co-founder & International Coordinator of The Pass it On Network
- Adriane BERG – CEO of Generation Bold and The Ageless Traveler
- Marcel SMEETS – European Consultant for EAN
- Ines O’DONOVAN – CEO of Jeunessima, moderator of the podcast
In a world where longer lifespans are reshaping societal structures, the Silver Citizenship discussion offers a beacon of hope and innovation. In its latest session, thought leaders, advocates, and futurists came together to explore the critical question: can we ensure healthier, more fulfilling lives as people live longer?
With the global population aged 60+ projected to increase from 12% to 22% by 2050, the need for action has never been more urgent. In countries like Monaco, where over a third of the population is 60+, this demographic shift is already a reality.
“Aging is not a number, it’s a stage”
Panelists on the podcast emphasized a revolutionary approach: aging is not a burden but a stage of life ripe with opportunities. By reframing the narrative around aging, society can transition from unnecessary medicalization to a more holistic view that prioritizes prevention, inclusion, and social engagement.
Moira Allan, Co-Founder of The Pass it on Network, shared the importance of empowering older adults to remain active participants in society. As key contributors to the economy, through work, mentorship, and spending, older adults deserve policies that support their potential rather than marginalize them. As Maggie Kuhn said “Live long, die short“.
European seniors : The economic and social value of aging well
Dr. Ines O’Donovan, CEO of Jeunessima, a renowned aging futurist, highlighted the economic benefits of extending healthy lifespans. Research reveals that adding one healthy year to each person’s life could contribute $38 trillion to the global economy.
However, achieving this requires a shift from cure-based healthcare systems to prevention-focused models, leveraging technologies like AI and wearable devices to manage health risks early.
Marcel Smeets, European Consultant for EAN, for age-inclusive policies, echoed this sentiment. He emphasized the urgency of reshaping health systems to prioritize preventive care, pointing out that current insurance models fail to incentivize proactive approaches.
Older citizens in European countries : Fostering intergenerational harmony
The podcast also delved into the value of intergenerational integration. Age-segregated communities limit societal cohesion, whereas mixed-age environments foster mutual respect and understanding. Adriane Berg, CEO of Generation Bold and The Ageless Traveler, a podcaster and UN representative, highlighted the role of tourism and cultural exchange in bridging generational divides, noting that older adults will drive 1.6 trillion leisure trips in the next 25 years.
Changing perceptions of aging
A key takeaway was the importance of education in reshaping perceptions of aging. By introducing children to concepts of longevity and health, society can cultivate respect for older generations. Lifelong learning and “mini-retirements” were also proposed as innovative ways to stay active and engaged throughout life.
As the podcast highlighted, aging is not merely about adding years to life but ensuring those years are meaningful and fulfilling. The message is clear: embracing inclusivity, empowerment, and proactive measures can transform aging into an opportunity for growth and societal enrichment. We shouldn’t treat elderly people as patients, “being old is not a disease“.
“Silver Citizenship: The role of older citizens in European and international policies”: the replay
Older citizens in Europe : Policy and community actions for a better future
The session concluded with actionable recommendations:
- Preventive Health Care: Shift to financing models that reward proactive, prevention-oriented health measures.
- Lifelong Learning: Establish flexible education systems for continuous skill development, enabling older adults to adapt and thrive.
- Intergenerational Initiatives: Promote programs connecting younger and older generations to foster societal integration.
- Community Nutrition: Enhance access to healthy food and encourage communal dining to improve well-being.
- Reimagined Retirement: Develop phased retirement options, retraining programs, and volunteer opportunities for older adults.
Published by the Editorial Staff on