Gender and active ageing in Europe

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Policy
• Sociology

Background:

• European populations are experiencing increased longevity, leading to demographic ageing.
• The primary policy response over the past decade has been 'active ageing'.
• There is significant ambiguity regarding the practical implementation and implications of active ageing policies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the concept and application of 'active ageing' as a policy response to demographic ageing in Europe.
• To propose a framework for an effective active ageing strategy that addresses societal challenges.
• To highlight the need for a gender-sensitive and inclusive approach to ageing policies.

Main Methods:

• Policy analysis of 'active ageing' initiatives in the European Union.
• Literature review on demographic ageing, gender studies, and public health.
• Argumentative synthesis of policy recommendations.

Main Results:

• The current 'active ageing' discourse often lacks practical definition and can mask policies with differential impacts on men and women.
• An effective active ageing strategy necessitates a partnership between citizens and society.
• Policies must be comprehensive, non-coercive, inclusive, and acknowledge gendered experiences and life-course events.

Conclusions:

• Active ageing strategies can effectively address the challenges of an ageing population if implemented thoughtfully.
• Emphasis should shift from resource production to holistic well-being.
• The European Year of Active Ageing (2012) presented a crucial opportunity to refocus and urgently advance active ageing policy in the EU.