Policies and priority interventions for healthy ageing

Healthy ageing is high on the European and global policy agendas. The year 2012 marks the 10th anniversary of the United Nations Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing. In the European Union, 2012 has been designated as the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations. Around 7 April, when WHO celebrates World Health Day 2012, campaigns throughout Europe will focus on ageing and health, raising awareness of how individuals and governments can contribute.

A core contribution for the WHO European Region is the action plan on healthy ageing in Europe for 2012–2016 that the WHO Regional Office for Europe is developing in consultation with its Member States and civil society. Allowing more people to lead active and healthy lives in their later years requires investment in a broad range of policies.