Abstract:

In this paper we approached issues related to the phenomenon of healthy and active ageing from a comprehensive and integrative perspective, with effects on the quality of life of elderly citizens. Healthy and Active Ageing was seen not as a threat, due to the pressure on health systems and social assistance, but as a social development potential, as a generator of innovation, contributing to sustainable economic growth. Throughout the paper, we analyzed the European approaches for innovation concerning healthy and active aging, highlighting the main forms of innovation and at the same time the cultural, social and economic barriers. We carried out a case study in which we measured, through active ageing index (AAI), the current situation of this process within the four key areas related to active ageing: "employment on the labour market", "participation in social life", "independent, healthy and safe life" and "capacity and favourable environment for active ageing". This index is a useful tool that allowed us to compare the process of active ageing in 28 EU countries and identify relevant aspects of this process in Romania. Also, the analysis of composite indicators within each and every area of ​​this index and their comparison, emphasized the need to change the approach of this concept of active ageing, both economically and, especially, from a cultural, social and educational point of view.