The Federal Statistical Office writes:

Active ageing means that people have the opportunity to maintain their health as they grow older, to participate in the life of their social environment, to ensure their personal safety and thus to improve their quality of life (WHO, 2002).

The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe has created an Active Ageing Index (AAI). It measures the extent to which the potential of older people is being realised in three different areas: employment, social participation and independent living. The AAI also includes a fourth area that goes beyond the actual experience of active ageing. It captures the differences between countries in the situation of their older populations and the creation of a favourable environment for active ageing.

What does active ageing mean to you, dear reader? How does it manifest itself for you?

My personal definition goes something like this:

• Still very curious about everything around.
• The need not to be slowed down by the adversities of growing older.
• Empathy and openness towards people.
• Lifelong learning.

With this in mind, let’s look forward to active aging!

Beatrice