As the WHO European Region and neighbouring regions face a demographic shift toward older populations, WHO’s policies on healthy ageing are guiding governments and local authorities toward innovative, evidence-based strategies. Within the WHO Regions for Health Network (RHN), member regions are translating WHO’s vision into practice through targeted initiatives that support the complex needs of older adults – spanning health promotion, mental well-being, social inclusion and intergenerational solidarity.

The following 5 regional case studies exemplify how WHO policy on healthy ageing’s 4 strategic actions – promoting health and well-being, transforming care ecosystems, creating age-friendly environments and challenging ageism – are being locally implemented in alignment with WHO’s global agenda for healthy ageing.

Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany: community connection through health cafés

The state strategy “Quartier 2030 – Gemeinsam.Gestalten” launched health cafés in Mannheim as accessible hubs for health services and social interaction. They provide informal meeting spaces alongside health education, service navigation and links to providers. Built on collaboration with municipalities, the model avoids duplication and ensures continuity. Evaluations highlight improved health literacy, stronger community bonds and better access to care.

Klaipėda Region, Lithuania: reducing loneliness with a “social recipe”

The “Social Recipe” programme, launched in 2024, engages over 200 seniors aged 65+ in free cultural, educational and wellness activities, coordinated by the Klaipėda City Public Health Bureau. Designed to address loneliness and emotional well-being, it is supported by the European Social Fund Plus. Despite challenges, such as limited funding and weak cross-sector collaboration, the initiative shows promise as a grassroots model for social inclusion.

Wales: building an age-friendly nation through local leadership

Wales implements a nationwide strategy, “Age Friendly Wales: Our Strategy for an Ageing Society”, co-produced with older adults. It funds dedicated age-friendly officers in all 22 local authorities, connecting people with services and fostering partnerships. By late 2024, 66 500 older people had benefitted through events, outreach and community initiatives, such as walking groups and intergenerational projects. Anchored in progressive legislation, Wales is now recognized internationally as a model for inclusive, age-friendly societies

Empowering active ageing through “Moscow Longevity”

Since 2018, Moscow has run the “Moscow Longevity” programme, involving nearly 650 000 older residents through 141 centers and over 6500 clubs. Activities include sports, cultural workshops, health education and intergenerational events. Assessments show reduced anxiety, better mental well-being and cognitive improvements of up to 34% among participants. Fully city-funded and supported by nongovernmental organizations and institutions, the initiative demonstrates how large-scale public programmes can promote active ageing.

Western Greece: bridging health care and community through telemedicine

In Western Greece, where many older adults face poverty and isolation, a new telemedicine-based programme connects Patras University Mental Health Services with local care providers. It trains professionals, screens rural patients for risk factors, offers remote support for cognitive and sensory health and runs awareness campaigns that have reached most municipalities. Building on earlier pilots, the programme strengthens brain health services and brings care closer to underserved communities.

Bizkaia: an Age-Friendly territory

Bizkaia, an Age-Friendly territory, is a programme based on WHO’s methodology in Bizkaia, Spain, to promote active and healthy ageing by creating inclusive environments where people can live with autonomy and well-being at all stages of life. The regional Department of Social Action provides annual grants – to 39 municipalities so far – to support projects adhering to the 2013 Dublin Declaration on Age-Friendly Cities.

The programme’s goals include strengthening older people’s sense of belonging and participation, fostering intergenerational perspectives, implementing transformative actions and ensuring older people play a leading role in the process.

To illustrate, in the municipality of Getxo, local seniors co-design neighbourhood improvement projects and mentor youth in digital literacy courses, while in Durango, intergenerational cultural events bring together schools and senior associations. These examples show how Bizkaia’s framework translates into concrete community action, enhancing both participation and solidarity across generations. Ultimately, the initiative benefits the entire population of Bizkaia, while prioritizing the inclusion of its older residents.

Continuing collaboration on healthy ageing

The WHO RHN will continue to collaborate with regional authorities to advance healthy ageing across the Region and beyond. By facilitating the exchange of good practices, supporting the implementation of WHO strategies and fostering innovation in age-friendly policies, the RHN aims to strengthen regional leadership and ensure that the benefits of healthy and inclusive ageing reach all communities.