Preparing the Future: Affordable Housing and the Challenge of an Ageing Population in Europe - Success Stories

The European Year (2012) is raising public awareness about the contribution older people make to society. The aim of this initiative is to encourage political decision-makers and stakeholders at all levels to work for better framework conditions for active ageing and to reinforce intergenerational solidarity. The real challenge is to involve the growing number of older people in these objectives. This entails ensuring that people are able to work longer and to lead an independent life for as long as possible. To guarantee the latter, we particularly need an adequate housing supply. The home has to take into account the needs of older people and must be located in a neighbourhood that allows for social and societal participation. If needed, social, medical and care services must be available and used. Finally, it is fundamental that such homes are affordable.