Active ageing
Short definition
Active ageing is, according to the WHO, the process of optimising opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age.
In plain language
The concept was proposed by the WHO in 2002. «Active» does not mean only physical activity: it includes social, cultural, civic and economic participation, even for people with illness or dependency. More recently, the WHO has favoured the term «healthy ageing», centred on functional ability.