“Solutions for Age-Friendly Employer” (SAFE) kick-off

It is no secret that today people are living longer than ever before, which is one of the greatest health-related achievements. As a result of the demographic change, we have more older adults in the labour market which comes with its advantages but also brings challenges. The Solutions for Age-Friendly Employer (SAFE) project aims at strengthening and improving employment opportunities for older employees (55+), specifically focusing on the health and wellness sectors. It has been observed that among others, these sectors in particular have high numbers of ageing workers.

On April 15 the project consortium from the Tallinn University Haapsalu College (Estonia), a non-profit organization Golden League (Estonia), Metropolia University of Applied Sciences (Finland), and the NDPHS Secretariat met in Tallinn University to kick off the project and begin the implementation of its activities. The project has the potential to make a valuable contribution to the NDPHS thematic priority areas – active and healthy ageing and mental health. The initiative is a step toward implementing the NDPHS Roadmap to improve the health and well-being of the ageing population.

To support the ageing population in the labour market, the project will develop a SAFE model with best practices for age-friendly employers. During its piloting stage, the model will cultivate an age-friendly work culture and provide employers with an interactive self-assessment. Providing information to companies about age-friendly practices is a first step towards a positive change. The feedback collected from employers and employees will help us to identify challenges and areas for improvement for an age-friendly work environment. The project is planned to last for 3 years and will culminate with a final SAFE model that will be disseminated across borders to key stakeholders, including policymakers, public and private health authorities, and regional health experts.