The fact that an ever increasing number of people are reaching an advanced age and that these are often years of health and activity can be counted as very real progress. Yet the changes in the age structure of the population mean new socio-political responsibilities both today and in the future. The examples shown in the illustration demonstrate the very varied nature of these responsibilities. Both government and society are called upon to join in facing these new demands. Efficient evaluation requires the definition of clear working goals and a set of quality assurance mechanisms.
Demographic change calls for a new definition of the relationship between the generations.
The International Year of Older Persons proclaimed by the United Nations in 1999 recently gave an important impetus to this process. It resulted in a heightened awareness that only A Society for all Ages will be in a position to tackle a common future. There are no age limits to make a social political contribution. Older people are busy every day in a thousands of ways demonstrating that age is no barrier to embracing new experiences, enriching our communities and enjoying life.