Evidence shows that the ability to participate in society is the principal factor to preserve a good health while ageing. A natural feature of getting older is to get one or more functional disorder which may lead to a decline in the possibility to participate in society.The conference will focus on the health promotion aspects of active contribution and social inclusion and on how the elderly can take an active part in shaping policies related to societal issues linked to the ageing population. The overall aim of the conference will be to raise awareness of the role of local and regional authorities in promoting active and healthy ageing.The conclusions of the conference will contribute to the 2012 SIRG final document to be submitted and presented in December 2012.