Looking Forward to a Dynamic Third Age - Comparative Mapping Report

Abstract

This report is compiled as part of the Erasmus+ project, BALL, Be Active through Lifelong Learning. The project addresses the urgency to establish guidelines and practices on how best to prepare individuals at an early stage for the “third age” with emphasis on learning, cultural environment and ambiance, and sharing of knowledge. The main objective of the project is to develop innovative guidelines and recommendations for use at lifelong learning centres; universities; companies; unions; associations; local and regional authorities who need and wish to prepare and encourage individuals under their auspices to prepare for the third age. The project defines the age group of 50 to 70 (the “baby boomer” generation) as the target group for such early preparations. The project and its outcomes will be used to raise awareness of these important issues and disseminate the results throughout the European Educational Area and the worldwide U3A network. In this report the demographic situation in each BALL partner country is analysed and put into a European perspective. Secondly, the situation in the labour market in each country is viewed and compared to those of the other BALL partner countries always keeping in mind the situation in Europe as a whole. The statistical analysis provided in this report will serve as a foundation for the work ahead in the BALL project, putting into perspective the serious challenges that lie ahead in coping with the consequences of an ageing European population. Thirdly, actions and initiatives that prepare people for their entry into the third age and retirement, in each country, are reviewed and compared. Finally, an attempt is made to identify future perspectives and trends. The results from the mapping exercise will then be combined with the survey intended to identify opinions and expectations towards retirement in each country. The results of this research will then constitute the basis for the final recommendations and guidelines to be proposed as outcome of the BALL project.