Ageing with dignity: the importance of strengthening care and support systems for older people around the world

Over the coming decades, the number of older people in the European Union will continue to increase. By 2050, the proportion of people aged 65 and over will be around 30%, compared to around 20% today.

The 2021 Green Paper outlined the challenges that European society will face in the coming years in anticipating and addressing the challenge of an ageing population while maintaining a good quality of life for as long as possible.

Preventive healthcare for older people is essential to maintaining their independence and quality of life. Appropriate medical monitoring can prevent the onset of disease or facilitate early detection when treatment is easier.

There is an urgent need to address the shortage of skilled care workers and to promote person-centred approaches to care, regardless of age. It is important to ensure that the healthcare pathway for older people respects their needs, dignity, privacy and right to make decisions about their care and quality of life.

As the population ages, the demand for care and social assistance has increased.

Specialised care is now essential to meet growing specific needs.

The European Federation of Retired and Older People (FERPA) calls for:

• The right to universal access to high-quality public health services, which requires sufficient staff in both hospitals and nursing homes, with good working conditions – remuneration, working hours, equipment – in line with the demands of the job.

• 100% reimbursement for all types of medical screening without age limits.

• 100% reimbursement for vaccinations and tests

• 100% reimbursement for basic medicine.

• Take into account and actively develop the social determinants of health: physical activity, diet, social ties, housing, environment, etc.

• Ensure that long-term care homes are dignified places to live, with sufficient qualified staff, social support and measures to combat abuse

• Ensure that all decisions taken in health and accommodation policies are made with respect for human rights, allowing people to live and die with dignity.