Population ageing is one of the most significant socio-economic challenges currently facing the EU. The European Commission's 2015 Ageing Report forecasts that the EU will move from having four working-age (15-64) people for every person aged over 65 years in 2013, to just two by 2060. The growing number of older people is generally perceived as a problem, given that the annual government expenditure on older people, currently amounting to nearly 20% of GDP in the EU (Ageing Report, 2015, European Commission), is forecast to rise by % by 2060, while a shortage of up to 2 million health workers in the EU is predicted by 2020. However, this very same demographic trend, if appropriately harnessed, may be a source of outstanding opportunities. Indeed, Euromonitor estimates that the global spending power of those aged 60+ will reach US$ 15 trillion by 2020.

This international symposium will offer an invaluable opportunity to consider different ways and strategies to promote healthy and active ageing and foster the engagement of the elderly in society, Furthermore, it will analyse challenges and opportunities raised by the demographic transition and explore practical solutions the issues associated with an ageing population in Europe. Finally, it will highlight the most recent technological innovations at service of the elderly and how they can be used to lower the costs associated with ageing and improve the lives of older citizens, whilst simultaneously helping to boost the economy.

Overview:

• Session 1 - The EU’s Approach to Active Ageing: Understanding the Current Framework
• Session 2 - Making Health and Care Systems Sustainable: Challenges Raised by the Demographic Transition 
• Session 3 - Increasing the Participation of Older People in the Society
• Session 4 - Fostering Environments for Active Ageing: Creating Age-Friendly Cities and Homes

Delegates will:

• Understand challenges and opportunities raised by the demographic transition in the EU
• Evaluate the silver economy as a driver for economic growth
• Assess the current EU framework in the field of active ageing
• Examine ways in which older people can continue to engage with society and how barriers can be overcome
• Analyse how health and care systems can become more sustainable and how to pre-empt risks linked to an ageing population
• Develop innovative ideas in the field of age friendly environments and personal health management
• Share best practice on innovative projects aimed at promoting active and healthy ageing