Ministry of Labourand Social Policy

NATIONAL ACTION PLAN FOR THE EUROPEAN YEAR FOR ACTIVE AGEING AND SOLIDARITY BETWEEN GENERATIONS (2012) IN POLAND

IT IS WORTH BEING ACTIVE… REGARDLESS OF AGE

Warsaw, January 2012

Foreword by the Minister of Labour and Social Policy

Demographic changes in Poland, similar to those observed in most of the European Union countries, require that State policy adopt a special approach to the problems of the ageing population. The European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations (2012) initiative (Decision No 940/2011/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 September 2011) is particularly valuable and justified since it will make it possible to discuss together, at the EU and national levels, the construction of an appropriate model for active ageing. In the context of these activities it is certainly important to stress the role of dialogue and cooperation between younger and older persons which forms the basis of solidarity between generations. I hope that activities which we will undertake during this Year in cooperation with other Ministries and institutions will make a significant contribution to the promotion of the idea of professional and social activity of older people and will help to emphasise the role of solidarity between generations in the social and economic development of our country.

Foreword by the National Coordinator of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations (2012) in Poland, Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy

In view of the demographic situation in many European countries, including Poland, it will be difficult, without measures promoting longer professional and social activity, to ensure stability of social security systems, and, at the same time, to a large extent the potential of older people may not be availed of. The European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations (2012) will help to popularise and promote these challenges. Poland supports the idea of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations (2012), as stated in the Polish Government position of 2010 on the Communication from the Commission (COM(2010) 462). The Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, which coordinates activities related to the EY 2012 in Poland, prepared a National Action Plan for the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations (2012) in Poland.

I hope that the Action Plan for 2012 presented here will contribute to promoting amongst different generations the idea of economic and social activity of older people, and that the effects of measures undertaken will foster expected changes in this area.

Contents

Introduction ...... 4

1. National context – challenges for active ageing...... 4

1.1. National measures in support of older people – central dimension ...... 9

1.2. Measures in support of older people – regional and local dimensions ...... 29

1.3. New initiatives in the area of active ageing and promotion of measures for

integration between generations ...... 30

2. Entities involved in activities supporting active ageing ...... 30

2.1. Public administration ...... 30

2.2. Non-governmental organisations and involvement of civil society ...... 30

3. Information activities during EY 2012 ...... 31

4. Annex...... 34

4.1. Calendar of central events...... 34

4.2. Calendar of regional events...... 35

4.3. List of initiatives of Universities of the Third Age ...... 37

Introduction

Activities in support of active ageing are within the competences of Member States. However, initiatives undertaken at the European Union level are of considerable importance for wider dissemination of knowledge about challenges facing Member States, as well as for the introduction of good practices, already developed in some EU countries, to the economic and social policies of other Member States. One of the main problems which is perceived as a weakness of Europe in the Europe 2020 strategy is the ageing of European States’ populations. The EY 2012 idea is a valuable element of social policy, including labour market policy, which should tackle main social challenges, and thus contribute to the implementation of the social objectives of the Europe 2020 strategy at the national and EU levels. The initiative which is the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations 2012 (EY 2012) will contribute to an exchange of experience and good practices as regards more active participation of people aged over 60 in many areas of economic, social and cultural life. In addition, different age groups should be involved in activities in support of EY 2012, in order to promote a culture of vocational and social activity in a life-long perspective.

It is important to use the European Year 2012 to promote initiatives among all interested parties, and in particular among older people (more than 60 years old), among workers aged over 50, among local authorities, employers, social partners and non-governmental organisations. It is important to take into account the needs of older people when they are still active on the labour market and to devise tools and instruments which will help to ensure longer vocational activity on their part. In addition, to promote solidarity between generations it is important to popularise among all age groups the requirements, possibilities and advantages of greater vocational and social activity on the part of older people.

All the activities for the benefit of older people should be guided by the idea of dignified ageing, which means applying methods of active ageing adapted to health conditions at different stages of ageing1.

1. National context – challenges for active ageing

Activities for the benefit of older people cover many areas and require systemic solutions. The experience of European countries with a high proportion of active older people indicates that, beside social policy institutions, the so-called grass-roots initiatives play an important role. They are implemented mainly by the third sector institutions as part of the involvement of civil society in the promotion of active ageing.

An ageing society in Poland involves new challenges for social policy. In respect of people who are fifty years old and more, the main focus should be on creating conditions which

1 In view of imminent demographic changes, the number of older people who are most at risk because of chronic health conditions and disabilities will increase. The number of such persons will double from 1.9 million in 2012 to 4 million in 2030. This will make it necessary to develop measures promoting social and vocational activation of older people and to face challenges connected with devising an effective strategy for ageing in good health. 4 will support their further personal and vocational development, encouraging them to be active in society, to play various social roles, and to maintain general fitness and vitality.

Measures aimed at changing attitudes towards this social group should be treated as a priority. Special attention should be paid to individuals who can become marginalised and are at risk of social exclusion. In order to increase the independence, activity and self- reliance of older people, it is necessary to empower them. Without such empowerment, it is difficult to imagine any significant progress in the implementation of programmes aimed at better integration of older people. In order to achieve this empowerment, it is important to foster the activity of older people in public and cultural life, in volunteering, and to promote their longer stay in employment. Legal changes are being introduced which contribute to meeting these objectives. They make it possible to create different types of support schemes for active ageing and different other forms of support for those people who become unable to solve the problems of everyday life. At present, activities carried out by many entities dealing with social assistance address these needs. However, in view of an increasing number of people requiring assistance, these activities should be intensified and coordinated between social assistance services and social partners. Activities which should be treated as priorities are those involving the development of a wide spectrum of care services, mainly addressed to elderly, lonely people, unable to cope with everyday life, who cannot expect the support of family or relatives in day-to- day living.

Demographic challenges

Poland is going through a period of plummeting birth rate. Since 1989, the reproductive rate does not guarantee a simple generation replacement. A total fertility rate of 2.1 – 2.15 generates broad stability of the population. With this fertility rate, in a given year there are on average 2 children per woman during all her childbearing years (15-49). In 2010, the total fertility rate in Poland was 1.38 (1.40 in 2009). This represents an increase of 0.16 on the level recorded in 2003 which was the lowest for more than 50 years.

Starting from 1992, a continuous increase in the average lifespan is observed in Poland. It is anticipated that boys born in 2010 will on average live till the age of 72.1 years and that girls will reach the age of 80.6 years. Compared with 1990, the average lifespan for men increased by 5.9 years and for women by 7 years there is still a big difference (approximately 8.5 years) between the life expectancy of men and women. As a result of changes in demographic processes, the number of children and young people (0-17 year old) is dramatically decreasing. In 2009, this situation was reflected in a further reduced proportion of this group in the total population, i.e. to a level of approximately 18.7% (29% in 1990 and approximately 21 % in 2005). Particularly big changes can be observed in the group of working age population (women 18-59, men 18-64). Data for 2010 indicate that since 1990 the percentage of working-age population (in the total population) increased by more than 6 percentage points, i.e. from 58.2% to 64.4% (it was almost 61% in 2000). However, the rate of growth of this population group is steadily slowing. At the same time, an ageing of the workforce can be noted. This is caused by an 5 increasing proportion of non-mobile working-age population (i.e. persons more than 44 years old) and of post-working age population (aged 60/65 and more) in the total population. In 2010, the total share of people in these age groups was 41.1%. The proportion of only post- working age population (men 65 years of age and more, women 60 years of age and more) in the total population was 16.9% (almost 15% in 2000 and under 13% in 1990).

Changes in the population age structure also mean considerable challenges for the social security system. The ageing of Polish society implies the necessity of increased social transfers for the benefit of this group of the population (as a result of necessary payments of old age and disability pensions, as well as the provision of appropriate health and care services).

A synthetic measure indicating the capacity of the social security scheme is the population dependency ratio showing the number of people who are not of working age (i.e. are of pre- working or post-working age) per 100 people of working age. From the point of view of social security systems, the proportion of people of post-working age (women of 60 and more, men of 65 and more) in the total population is also important since this is the group whose members are the main beneficiaries of different types of social benefits. In 2010, there were 55 persons of non-working age per 100 persons of working-age (including 26 persons of post-working age and 29 persons less than 17 years old). In 2000 this ratio was 64 (24 for post-working and 40 for pre-working age) and in 1990 it was as much as 74 (22 for post- working and 52 for pre-working age).

A decrease in the number of births since the mid-eighties, particularly intensive up to 2003, as well as favourable changes in the mortality process, have brought about durable changes in the age structure of the population. On the other hand, favourable demographic changes which took place after 2003, consisting primarily of an increased number of births and an increase in the number of newly married couples, may indicate a turning point in the existing trend in the structure of population. However, the prospects of Poland emerging from a deep demographic depression seem to be very remote since the fertility rate of women in our country is the lowest in European countries. At the same time, more and more young people leave Poland with an intention of staying abroad for a longer period of time.

In accordance with the forecasts of the Main Statistical Office (GUS), Poland's population in 2035 will be 35million 993 thousand, i.e. 94.4% of the 2007 level2. As much as 90% of the anticipated decrease in the size of the population will affect cities. As a result of changes in the intensity of births and deaths population growth will continue until 2013. However, in subsequent years, due to progressive unfavourable changes in the population age structure and the decreasing number of females of childbearing age, there will be a negative population growth, deepening from one year to the next. GUS forecasts that until 2011 there will be an increase in the number of births. However, in the subsequent years there will be a steady decline in the number of births until, in 2035, it reaches the level of 272 500, i.e. almost 30% less than in 2007.

2 Data based on the publication Population forecast for 2008 – 2035, GUS, Warsaw, 2009. 6

The extension of an average lifespan combined with low fertility rate will reflect in unfavourable changes in the age structure of the population. Within the next twenty five years or so there will be a dramatic acceleration in the process of ageing of the population. GUS forecasts a considerable decrease in the working-age population. In 15 years starting from 2010, the number of persons belonging to this group will decrease by 2 million 946 thousand. The sharpest decline (by 1 215 000) will be recorded between 2015 and 2020. It is forecast that by 2035 the working-age population will decrease by 3 806 000 and the mobile-age population will decrease by as much as 4 433 000.

Challenges for the labour market

With the demographic tendencies described above, it becomes particularly important to retain on the labour market persons who in the period up to 2020 will join the age groups 55-59 and 60-64 (currently these are pre-retirement age groups). Their remaining in the labour market, i.e. the postponement of the moment of retirement, depends not only on the individual family and personal situation, status on the labour market, professional career to-date, or kind and level of social benefits. It is also defined by human capital resources which determine the possibilities of remaining in employment, as well as the features of the structure of employment of these persons, which depend on the structure of demand for labour.

In 2010, the economic activity rate - calculated as the proportion of the population on the labour market in the total population aged 15 and more – was at a level of 55.8% and was 0.9 percentage point higher than in the previous year. It was 64.1% for men and 48.2% for women. Economic activity was slightly higher in urban centres (55.9%) than in rural areas (55.5%).

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Graph 1. Economic activity rate by age and sex in 2010 (in %)

Key to Graph 1: [purple] – males [orange] - females Source: Own calculation by the Economic Analyses and Forecasts Department in the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, based on BAEL (annual average) In 2010, people aged 25-49 were the most economically active. For this group, the economic activity ratio was 86.1%, i.e. 0.5 percentage points higher than the 2009 average. There is a noticeable growth in activity between age groups 15-19 and 20-24. The difference between these two groups is 49.8 percentage points and is mainly the result of taking-up of jobs by persons who finished their education at the secondary level and who do not continue their studies. At the same time, a sharp decline in activity is noticeable among people who are older than 49, in particular in groups 50-54 years old and 55-59 years old (25.5 percentage points). Low activity and early withdrawal from the labour market of persons of non- mobile age is one of the basic problems of the Polish economy. In accordance with Eurostat estimates, in 2009 the average age of withdrawal from the labour market in EU-27 countries was 61.4. The inhabitants of Iceland which is not a member of the EU are withdrawing from the labour market at the most advanced age. On average, they retire at the age of 64.8. For the inhabitants of Sweden the average age of withdrawal from the labour market is only slightly lower at 64.3. Among the EU countries Holland (63.5), Great Britain (63.0), Cyprus, Estonia, Denmark and Spain (more than 62) have the highest indicators for the average retirement age. On the other hand, Slovakia (58.8), Hungary (59.3) and France (60.0) are well below the European average. For

8 comparison purposes, in 2007 the same indicator for Poland was 59.33.

Graph 2. Employment rate by age groups in 2009 and 2010 (in %)

Source: Own calculation by the Economic Analyses and Forecasts Department in the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, based on BAEL (annual average)

Risk of social exclusion

Low economic activity of older people and early withdrawal from the labour market significantly contributes to poorer living standards for persons of older age. On the one hand, early economic deactivation results in lower old-age pensions. On the other hand, early withdrawal from the market and absence of social activity causes passivity in the lives of older people. These are main factors which may lead, as a consequence, to social exclusion, including financial exclusion and digital exclusion. Cooperation between generations (which is a factor supporting solidarity between generations) plays an important role in this respect. As a result, these two age groups can complement each other in transferring knowledge and experience, different because of the age difference, and precious for both sides.

1.1. National measures in support of older people – central dimension

Activities aimed at supporting older people in their efforts to maintain and increase their activity constitute an important element of the State’s social policy. An increased participation of these

3 Eurostat does not show results for Poland for 2008-2009. 9 people in society requires an appropriate approach to the challenge facing the majority of the EU countries. An important aspect is a change in attitudes, including combatting negative age stereotypes about the role and place of older people in society and in economic life4.

Older people constitute a group, towards which very different approaches should be adopted (taking into account, for a start, big differences in the ages of older people, including the specificity of activity of the oldest ones). On the one hand, older people should be encouraged to continue their personal, occupational and social activities as long as possible, and, on the other hand, support and care should be provided for those who cannot live independent lives. Public authorities and civil society bodies should take steps aimed at developing different forms of social support with a view to preventing deactivation of older people, but also aimed at helping them to maintain occupational and social activity for as long as possible. In addition, it is important to improve social security, inter alia by improving access to support services for older people, and by improving the quality of these services. The objective of social policy should be the creation of such solutions as would take into account needs and problems at different stages of old age.

Therefore, it is important to build a new approach to ageing and to indicate opportunities at the national and local levels for the development of the so-called ‘silver economy’ sector. It is also important to support activities aimed at changing attitudes towards older people and ageing in individual and social aspects. Objectives connected with measures towards increased activity of older people should promote: • longer occupational activity which should be accompanied by appropriate instruments of the labour market and actions on the part of employers: • active involvement in the life of local communities which will contribute to developing the interests of older people; • volunteering, which will make it possible to avail of the potential of older people; • a healthy lifestyle and physical activity which will extend the time when older people can remain independent; • intergenerational integration (activities which would facilitate younger and older people in learning from one another); • active participation in the area of social services (activities of older people for the benefit of older people).

Measures relating to activity of older people should be implemented at the central, regional and local levels, taking into account the complementary roles of the public and non-public sectors, in particular NGOs. Elements of policy implemented for the benefit of older people are found on many levels. They involve labour market policy, the tax system, the education system, infrastructural solutions, and also the State’s activities in the areas of tourism, sport, culture and volunteering.

4 During the Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU, Council Conclusions were adopted on positive aspects of ageing Ageing as an opportunity for the labour market and for the development of social services and community activities, adopted by the EPSCO Council in December 2011 10

Labour market

At the level of the labour market policy, activities for the benefit of older workers are implemented mainly under the 50+ Programme and the active labour market policy.

The main process contributing to extending occupational activity of older people in Poland is the implementation of the programme Solidarity between Generations: Measures Aimed at Extending Occupational Activity of Persons Aged 50+. It was adopted by the Council of Ministers in October 2008. Since then, 10 legislative tasks have been carried out, under the competences of the Minister of Labour and Social Policy, as well as one information task. As a result, a better institutional environment has been created, more friendly towards persons aged more than 50 wishing to remain active. Namely: • employers employing persons aged 50 or over were exempted from contributions towards the Labour Fund and the Guaranteed Employee Benefits Fund. In addition, the period for which an employer must pay sick-leave benefit was reduced, which resulted in lower labour costs; • facilities were introduced to enhance occupational qualifications of workers, as well as solutions promoting lifelong learning for unemployed persons and job seekers aged 50 or over. As a result, older people will be able to work longer and more efficiently, maintaining a high level of job satisfaction; • new regulations were introduced which limit the number of persons entitled to early retirement: as a result the effective retirement age will be raised; • appropriate conditions were created for the development of childcare services, thus contributing to counteracting premature deactivation of older people obliged to discontinue their careers out of a necessity to take care of, for example, grandchildren. In addition, other activities were carried out on a large scale, including training programmes. By 2010, it was possible to train more than 106 thousand persons aged 45/50+.Currently, 32 very wide ranging tasks are implemented (from training to innovative tasks) to promote more active ageing. Since the beginning of the programme, positive changes can be observed as regards the situation of older people on the labour market. There was a rise in the average retirement age and in the age for leaving the labour market. The employment rate in the age group 55-64 increased by 2.4 percentage points (from 31.6% in 2008 to 34% in 2010). This is primarily the result of a fast increase in employment among women from this age cohort which was 3.5 percentage points (from 20.7% in 2008 to 24.2% in 2010). There was also a slight improvement in the proportion of persons aged 45-64 enhancing their qualifications (from 1.4% to 1.9%). Changes in the indicators show that the path selected is correct. However, the scale of 5 these changes also shows how much remains to be done .

5 In the 1st quarter of 2011 in the age cohort 55-64 the employment rate was only 35.5%. This is one of the lowest levels in the entire European Union. Almost 62% of this age cohort are passive persons and the main reason for their inactivity (more than 61%) is pension. This situation varies depending on the sex. In the age group 55-64 less than half of males and more than 72% of females are passive. More than two thirds of passive females in this age group are retired while in the case of males from this segment less than a half of them are retired. 11

The objectives of activities in the area of active labour market policy include inter alia reemployment of older people who are either unemployed or at risk of becoming unemployed. These activities are undertaken by public labour services in many areas - in the area of placement, in the area of occupational consulting, or of training. They make it possible to provide specialised and individualised services to older people. Solutions promoting the employment of older people also include support for employers who invest in the professional development of older workers: • employers who had created a training fund may apply for a partial refund from the Labour Fund of expenditure incurred in respect of training of their workers; • in order to encourage employers to invest in the training of older workers, the level of refund of costs involved in the training of persons aged more than 45 is almost double the refund for financing the costs of training of younger workers. Employers may obtain a refund of 80% of costs of training persons aged 45 and more (up to 300% of an average salary).

Working persons aged 45 and more obtain the status of a person entitled to be offered the same training services as unemployed persons and job seekers. Working persons aged 45+ registered in employment offices may avail of: • free so-called group training schemes organised by training institutions at the request of employment offices (in accordance with training plans of employment offices), or they may indicate an offer of interest to them, available on a free training services market. After submitting an application (where the objective of participation in that training is stated), they can expect that the costs of that training will be financed up to the value of 300% of an average salary; • financing of costs of examinations with a view to receiving certificates, diplomas, vocational competency certificates, as well as costs involved in obtaining vocational licences, up to the amount of 300% of an average salary; • financing of costs of travelling to these examinations; • indicating post-graduate studies which they would like to follow, and having submitted an application (where the objective of participation in such studies is stated), they can expect that the costs of these studies will be financed up to the value of 300% of an average salary. • loans to finance costs of training up to the value of 400% of an average salary. Such loans are interest-free and repayable within 18 months.

In the context of the labour market and solutions addressed to older people, it is important to pursue dialogue with employers focussed on the development of methods through which the potential of older people can be availed of on the labour market. Also of great importance for the situation of older people are activities in the area of the social responsibility of business in responding to employees’ needs and the needs of local communities.

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Moreover, one of the key elements of the State’s contribution towards extending the activity of workers aged 50 and over is the childcare system. Measures undertaken in order to improve the childcare system include support for the development of various forms of care for children under 3 years of age (crèches, day child-minders, children’s clubs, and nannies). Indirectly, these measures should counteract occupational deactivation of persons aged 50 and more who, as grandparents, often give up their employment in order to personally take care of their grandchildren. They are often forced to do so because of the occupational and material situation of their children and the absence of a sufficiently developed childcare infrastructure. One of possible forms of employment for such persons is to become a day child-minders.

The aspect of economic activity of older persons with certified disability is also very important. Legal provisions which apply to such persons concern, inter alia, their entitlement to receive funds which would allow them to become self-employed, refund of contributions, and adaptation of workplaces to the needs of disabled persons. One of the instruments preventing premature incapacity to work is skilful age management (in an enterprise, in a company, in an organisation, etc.). It includes initiatives connected with recruitment, training, professional development, health protection, as well as organisation and conditions of work. This last factor is an important area within the context of changing needs and possibilities of older workers. Changes which should be introduced by employers in this respect include, first of all, better adaptation of workplaces to the needs of older workers and more frequent controls of these places, giving older workers more freedom in planning their work and offering them the possibility of working flexible hours. An introduction of these and similar measures may contribute to making it easier to reconcile working and life outside work, and thus have a beneficial influence on health, motivation, quality of life, lower absenteeism, increased productivity, and subsequently an extension of occupational activity, postponed retirement, leading, consequently, to maximisation of labour resources. The Central Institute for Labour Protection – National Research Institute plans to organise in the second half of 2012 a pilot training on the principles governing economic activity of older workers (50 and over), addressed to employers or to their representatives (approximately 20 participants). The training will focus on the above-mentioned elements of age management which will contribute to retaining older workers on the labour market.

Social security system

In Poland there is no separate social security system for older people. Older people avail of social security on the same terms as other social groups and they have the same rights to benefits. The social security system encourages longer economic activity by calculating pension benefit using a formula which encourages postponement of retirement. An extension of the economic activity period means that funds gathered on an individual account of the insured will be larger. As a result, pension benefits will increase which should influence the decisions of insured persons as to whether to remain longer economically active.

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Dependency benefits whose beneficiaries include older people

These benefits include care allowance and care supplement. The care allowance is granted, inter alia, to persons aged over 75, who are unable to function independently, in order to partially offset expenditures necessary to have care and assistance provided by another person. The carer’s allowance is granted to people who do not take up other paid employment or who leave such employment in order to look after a person who has a high degree of disability confirmed by a medical certificate. The care supplement is granted to persons entitled to pension who are declared to be totally unable to work or to lead an independent existence, and to persons who are 75 years old or over. The average number of care allowances in 2010 was 873 thousand and in 2009 836 thousand. The number of carer’s allowances in 2010 was 108 thousand and in 2009 it was 68 thousand 6

Health

In an increasing number of countries, including Poland, we are witnessing a demographic and epidemiological transformation. It consists of a change of patterns from high fertility combined with high mortality to low fertility and low mortality. As a result, there is a longer anticipated lifespan and an increased number of older people in the population. This pattern is accompanied by an epidemiological transformation from a situation where infectious diseases dominate and there is a high perinatal mortality of mothers and babies to a situation where there is a prevalence of chronic diseases, typical for older age. Contributory factors in this new situation include civilizational changes and global technical revolution, progress in health promotion, disease prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of diseases, including rehabilitation. All this results in a longer lifespan, but is usually accompanied by chronic diseases and disabilities. The above-mentioned epidemiological transformation affects all ageing populations as the risk of age-related illnesses increases with the increase of chronological age, and in effect of biological age which predisposes towards pathologies. From early adulthood people are exposed to increasingly numerous chronic long-term illnesses which cumulate as they become older. Functional deficits are manifested not only in specific organs affected by illnesses, but are associated with dysfunctions of the entire person in physical, psychological and social aspects. Because of disabilities resulting from the coexistence of many illnesses in older age, the state of health of this age group is described more often in its functional dimension than through a register of morbidity or mortality. This is done for pragmatic reasons because a concrete level and type of disability determines the type and extent of therapeutical intervention, nursing, rehabilitation, prosthetics, or adaptation of the environment to a specific dysfunction. A continuous process of ageing of society makes it necessary to take steps towards adapting the environment to changing demographic conditions.

Preventive medicine and health promotion

In 2006-2008, the National Institute of Public Health - the State Hygiene Establishment (NIZP-

6 Information provided by the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy. 14

15 PZH) carried out an international study (EUNAPA project) on health promotion programmes addressed to persons aged 65 and over in Poland and in other EU countries. The study was carried out in accordance with international recommendations, and involved persons who have an influence on the shaping of health policy at the local and regional levels in the sectors of healthcare, sport and social welfare. Many key experts in the area of public health participated in the study. It was found that the majority of health promotion programmes are undertaken on own initiative, responding to social needs, and not because of official commitments. The chances for the development of cooperation and involvement of target population were rated very high. Financial resources which are at the disposal of organisations were often perceived as insufficient or too short-term to implement measures. The most frequently indicated reasons for the lack of interest in health promotion only as regards physical activity of the aged included: lack of involvement on the part of decision-makers; the need to undertake other, more important, tasks; lack of relevant statutory provisions which would make it possible to include these measures in job descriptions; formal inclusion of all age groups in general health promotion activities addressed to the entire population; lack of, or insufficient amount of funds. Focus group meeting interviews were also conducted during the project, involving experts from governmental organisations and NGOs. Discussions and analyses covered the issues of weaknesses and strengths of the promotion of health and active ageing, as well as available opportunities and threats which the promotion of health and active ageing are facing. Strengths included the incorporation in the National Health Programme of provisions regarding promotion of the health of older people; existing regulations; positive examples of measures which are being implemented; increased interest in problems of the aged; a holistic approach to health and health promotion. Among weaknesses regarding the promotion of health the following were cited: low level of interest on the part of NGOs, excessive bureaucracy at different levels of administration, and insufficient numbers of training staff. The conclusion was that a growing social pressure on local policy and a generally high level of interest in wellness constitute opportunities for the development of health promotion. The introduction of new specialisations and programmes in staff training (including training as geronto-kinesi-prophylaxis instructor) and increased media interest in the subject of healthy lifestyle were considered to be positive developments. Reports on cases of age discrimination, as well as financial aspects were mentioned as examples of threats. It was also pointed out that the state of health of the senior population in Poland is inferior to that in other EU countries. This was the reason why attention is focussed on second and third phase prophylaxis (mainly through medicalization). Threats to the development of health promotion are also due to insufficient staff numbers and poorly adjusted, or not properly used, infrastructure (base).

Under the international cooperation programme, the National Institute of Public Health - the State Hygiene Establishment (NIZPPZH) carried out an analysis of health promotion strategy. The project is a continuation of an international research project in the area of health promotion focussed on physical activity of older people, and in particular sedentary older people. (PASEO project financed under Public Health programme. Implementation period: 01.01.2009- 30.06.2011, Grant Agreement No 2008.12.19).

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Identification of needs

It is necessary to create a national policy for the elderly in Poland – barriers which have been identified as restricting the development of initiatives for older people (health and social aspects) include, in particular: • increased demand for services: the anticipated increase in demographic old age will result in a multiplication of demand for medical services (and constitutes a threat to the system, which is already not quite able to cope). It will also have an impact on the health status and disabilities of the population. The health status and fitness of older people in Poland are unsatisfactory. This is confirmed by subjective and objective indicators of health status as well as comparisons with other European countries; • lack of coordinated assistance and social policy oriented towards senior citizens: social and health care for older people in Poland is not fully coherent and does not ensure equal access to services such as care services, support, health services and rehabilitation. Deficiencies are mainly observed as regards general availability, quality, accessibility of services and the possibility of meeting complex needs in a comprehensive manner; • inadequate supply of care services: the share in the State welfare system of social assistance for old and disabled persons in the community is marginal and in rural areas practically non-existent; • a healthcare system which does not fully respond to the needs of senior citizens. The healthcare system should be urgently adapted to the needs of older people and integrated with the social assistance system. With the projected increase in demand for care services in the home place, desirable changes should involve the introduction of nursing care insurance together with a development of nursing and care services and rehabilitation services; • an insufficient number of staff specialised in geriatric care. In order to improve healthcare for older people it is necessary to develop geriatric education both as part of primary and post-graduate medical training of general practitioners and specialists in geriatrics. To achieve this, academic clinical facilities should be urgently organised and extended, mainly for training purposes, while clinical facilities outside academic centres should be developed mainly to provide services; • absence of programmes to be used in preventive medicine, in education, and of programmes encouraging senior citizens to become more active, or bad coordination of these programmes. It is recommended to carry out a SWOT analysis regarding health promotion and active ageing at the local level. This should be done by local governments, NGOs and institutions active in that area.

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Tasks carried out

Standards in geriatrics – Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment The Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is a fundamental rule of proceedings in geriatrics and constitutes an interdisciplinary diagnostic instrument designed to prepare a multidimensional and standardised assessment of life functions, necessary to plan different stages of treatment and care. This care system makes it possible to organise the diagnostic process and determine patients’ requirements for specific medical procedures and benefits. As a result, it makes it possible to devise treatment and care adapted to the health status of elderly patients. It was demonstrated that such an assessment improves diagnostic accuracy, improves the physical and psychological fitness of patients, reduces their mortality, reduces the amount of medication applied, reduces unnecessary forms of services, mainly at the level of hospitalisation and the use of institutional care, and as a result reduces the costs of healthcare for elderly. Moreover, it improves the quality of life of older people without increasing the costs of care. It was also demonstrated that geriatric assessment used during hospital admission is an important forecasting tool since it makes it possible to project the duration of hospitalisation, the necessity to place a patient in institutional care, as well as the death of a patient. A draft standard for geriatric care has been prepared of which the CGA is an integral part. Currently, a legislative procedure has been initiated in order to implement envisaged changes. Intensive work is being carried out in this respect. Taking into account the needs of the society as regards healthcare for the elderly, legislative changes are envisaged which will make it possible:

• to create a comprehensive care system, including: 1. 24-hour a day geriatric care in a geriatric hospital unit ; 2. daily geriatric care in a day centre for geriatric care; 3. specialist outpatient geriatric care provided in outpatient geriatric clinics and home care provided by teams of home helpers specialised in geriatrics who are attached to geriatric clinics; 4. consulting teams specialised in geriatrics for inpatient health service and long-term care attached to hospitals’ geriatric units or to outpatient geriatric clinics: • implementation of medical standards and procedures for older people (CGA). The scope of medical procedures provided as part of this service is not significantly different from procedures used during specialist consultations.

Recommended changes also include: • creation of a network of clinics, geriatric outpatient centres and positions of consultants for geriatrics in hospital units and in long-term care centres; • giving a special status to geriatrics in the transitional period of 10 years, through an active policy of the Health Ministry for the development of geriatrics and through preferential contracts between the National Health Fund and geriatric establishments accredited on the basis of geriatric care standards.

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Essential tasks to be implemented 1. Improvement of the quality of services through the implementation of the Comprehensive Geriatric Care. 2. Better availability of services for older people through a better financing of these services. 3. Better coordination of healthcare and social care. 4. Adaptation of the long-term care system to demographic and health requirements of Polish society. 5. Cooperation with NGOs as regards health education and health promotion. 6. Education and on-the-job training of medical staff for geriatric services.

Tax regime

Under the State tax regime regarding flat-rate income tax, reduction of the tax rate by 20% applies to persons over 60 years of age. Benefits received by pensioners from the establishment in which they are or were employed are exempt from tax (while for amounts higher than PLN 2 280 the tax rate is reduced to 10%).

Education and life-long learning

In the area of educational solutions, the roles of the Strategy for the Development of Social Capital and of the Strategy for the Development of Human Capital should be emphasised. In addition, at the European Union level, the initiative named the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning is also important. Promotion of different forms of learning remains a challenge as regards older people (access to educational services provided within formal and informal systems) in order to: • maintain occupational and social activity for as long as possible, satisfy the need of feeling useful, and maintain social contacts; • better provide for the everyday needs of the group of persons with lower physical fitness and who require care and assistance, in such a way as may contribute to relieving traditional institutions of the healthcare and social assistance systems. The achievement of important changes in the areas of innovative, sustainable economy, science, high quality public administration and building of the information society and civic society requires large-scale measures and should be connected with the process of life-long learning (LLL).

As regards educational solutions, it is important to emphasise the roles of the following and need to implement the following: • the renewed European agenda as regards adult education, including priorities proposed to Member States for 2012-2014; • a new approach to acquiring qualifications and to using them, in particular by persons who have a less favourable position on the job market, including older people. This new approach has been agreed in the EU, under the educational policy based on the effects of learning and on the provisions of the European Qualifications

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Framework; • new national strategic documents (the Strategy for the Development of Social Capital, the Strategy for the Development of Human Capital, as well as the new strategic document prepared as a result of commitments entered into in the EU “Lifelong Learning Perspective”).

The promotion of lifelong learning policy (otherwise referred to as lifewide learning or LLL), including the promotion of a new approach to education (teaching and training) as a public activity favouring such learning is of a particular importance. Lifelong learning should not be associated only with the offer of formal education. There is still a large and underutilised potential of informal education and non-formal learning which is not sufficiently appreciated in Poland, or even noticed. Identification and appreciation of this area of education in Poland will be one of the main tasks of LLL policy in Poland. As regards non-traditional acquisition of qualifications and use of them by persons who have a weaker position on the job market, the dissemination of information about European and national qualifications networks will be very important. Promotion of different forms of learning will constitute a challenge in respect of older people among whom there are many poorly educated persons. Objectives of this learning process will be as follows: • the development of key competences, mainly those which will make it possible to integrate into a further learning process, in different forms and places, including distance learning and use of new forms of services in different areas (health, culture, information about the job market, social assistance, legal aid, creation of new communities, etc.), based on new information and communication technologies; • personal development and development of own interests in different areas; • remaining occupationally and socially active for as long as possible; • practical use of the effects of learning in everyday life of older people (important, for example, to alleviate the work of traditional institutions that answer the needs of these persons).

In accordance with the principles of the LLL policy the participation of older people in the learning process is not the only important aspect. Equally valuable is identification and transfer of life experience and competences by older people to younger generations (it is also important that by teaching others, we also learn). One of the most natural directions of this policy is the use of the potential of older people in informal education, supporting selected tasks of institutions involved in early care and education of children (short sessions with children, support in individual work with children, care and educational assistance to parents, neighbourhood initiatives, stimulation and integration of local communities as regards issues important for bringing-up young children, initiation of community self-help in the bringing-up of young children, organisation of local lobby groups for solutions beneficial for the bringing-up of young children, participation in educational programmes for parents, and even in training for teaching staff, mainly in issues regarding parenting). Also under innovative projects, in the development of informal education, experience of older people can be transferred to other

19 generations. The European Union programme “Lifelong learning” can play a significant role in an innovative approach to learning by older people and in the use of their potential for teaching younger generations. This applies in particular to two sectoral programmes under the “Lifelong learning” programme: • The Leonardo da Vinci programme which supports occupational education also for people aged 50 and over and supports the creation of age-management strategies in the workplace; • The Grundtvig programme which co-finances a number of measures addressed to older people in the area of 'alternative' education, including teaching senior citizens to use information and communication technologies, foreign languages, as well as learning through volunteering. One of the actions of the Grundtvig programme is addressed only and exclusively to people aged 50 and over. In other actions Poland assigns national priorities which make it possible to co-finance a larger number of educational measures addressed to senior citizens.

Universities of the Third Age

Universities of the Third Age (UTAs) play an important role in older peoples’ education. These universities operate mainly as facilities affiliated with third level educational establishments or in the form of associations. Universities of the Third Age circles are actively involved not only in the promotion of education for senior citizens, but also in availing of their potential in the cooperation with younger generations. An innovative approach is essential for a further development of this movement. It should be directed not so much towards just the cohort of older people, but towards developing regular contacts of these people with younger generations (a University of the Third Age may, for example, initiate, support, study and monitor the effects of involvement of older people in early education). In addition, older people should be encouraged to get involved not only in a restricted area of activities of third level educational establishments (in the case of facilities affiliated with third level institutions) or in activities of their teaching staff (in the case of associations for education of older people), but also in a full spectrum of educational activities. It is important for the future of higher education to support a flexible approach to adult education for any age group, in accordance with standards which are being currently established in the preparation of a national qualifications framework.

2012 – the Year of Universities of the Third Age “2012 – the Year of Universities of the Third Age” is an initiative launched by the National Association of Universities of the Third Age. This project includes comprehensive activities at the national and regional levels, using the network of Universities of the Third Age countrywide. Currently, the potential of Universities of the Third Age (UTAs) comprises 350 facilities which have different organisational and legal forms, such as: UTAs organised in third-level institutions, UTAs as NGOs (associations and foundations), and UTWs in organisational units of local authorities. More than 100 thousand active older people participate during the full academic year (from October to June) in educational programmes designed to activate and

20 integrate the older generation. The development of UTAs is particularly noticeable in the last decade. As a result, new UTAs are established every year. On 9 May last, Polish First Lady Mrs Anna Komorowska announced that she granted her patronage to the initiative “2012 – the Year of Universities of the Third Age in Poland”.

Infrastructure

At the level of infrastructural solutions, it is important to implement measures leading to reducing the extent of digital exclusion, which correlates with the lack of activity of older people and their social exclusion. Digital exclusion means both the lack of physical access to new technologies and the lack of ability to avail of possibilities which they offer. There is no doubt that in the contemporary world information and communication technologies (ICTs) constitute important means of economic and social activities. Currently, most occupations require an ability to use computer and the Internet. Modern technologies are also important in the area of social and cultural life. Wider use of ICTs contributes to a better quality of life of citizens and enterprises, and has a positive impact on economic growth and increased innovation. The most common reason for not availing of ICTs’ benefits is not the absence of physical access but the lack of information on possibilities offered by computers and the Internet. In addition, there are psychological barriers to the introduction of ICTs, reflected in fear of using these technologies, as well as lack of motivation to acquire better knowledge in this respect. It should be emphasised that competence in using ICTs should be common among Poles. This applies in particular to Poles aged over 50. Remaining occupationally and socially active depends to a large extent of ability to use computers and the Internet. However, the report “Between alienation and adaptation. Poles aged 50 and over and the Internet” indicates that out of 13 million citizens aged over 50, more than 10 million (78%) do not use the Internet. Almost every fifth Pole aged more than 50 who does not use the Internet claims that it seems too complicated. For this reason, it is very important to remember to create and disseminate an educational offer for this social group. The Ministry of Infrastructure implements a “System-Project – Activities for the development of broadband access to the Internet” (hereinafter referred to as “the Project”), developed as part of Activity 8.3 of the Operational Programme Innovative Economy 2007-2013. One of the main objectives of the implementation of the aforementioned Project is to counteract digital exclusion. Under this system-project, promotional and information activities will be carried out to counteract the exclusion and to contribute to the development of the information society. These activities will include: • organisation of promotional and information campaigns conducted through different media channels (traditional, electronic, localisation of relevant subjects in national and local news); • am action programme to raise the digital competences of digitally excluded persons, addressed mainly to adults and to inhabitants of rural areas and small towns.

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In order to implement this Project, on 31 August 2011 the Minister of Infrastructure selected a Partner in an open competition. The Partner, the “Towns in the Internet” Association, will be required: • to prepare training methods as regards digital education; • to carry out the recruitment of the Project’s beneficiaries, including the selection and training in digital competences of at least 2600 local leaders; • to prepare and implement under the Project e-learning training sessions; • to launch a digital education portal together with an e-learning module; • to organise national and regional conferences and foreign study visits; • to carry out promotional and information activities to counteract digital exclusion and to develop the information society. These activities will include: a) organisation and conduct through different channels of promotional and information campaigns; b) organisation of an action programme aimed at raising digital competences of digitally excluded persons, addressed mainly to adults and to inhabitants of rural areas and small towns; c) community studies and analyses regarding digital competences; d) preparation of publications on digital education; e) preparation of films and educational games on the combatting of digital exclusion. The National Broadband Plan (hereinafter referred to as the NPS) which is being prepared by the Ministry of Infrastructure should be mentioned in this context. It will be a strategic document outlining the development of broadband internet in Poland until 2020. This document will also take into account changes in society resulting from evolution in the methods of communication and in ways of accessing information, following the development of the Internet. One of the tasks which are at the basis of the NPS is to provide all the Poles with equal opportunities and safe conditions for availing of possibilities offered by modern achievements in the area of communications. One of the activities planned under the NPS is the “Popularisation of broadband Internet among local communities”. It is anticipated that making people aware of benefits arising from having access to broadband Internet will increase demand for related services (including access to broadband Internet). These activities will also help to combat the phenomenon of digital exclusion, particularly noticeable among the age cohort of 50 and over. In addition, by creating urban space, more attention should be paid to the creation of friendly, safe conditions for pedestrians. As regards pedestrians, the largest group of those injured in road accidents in built-up areas in 2010 were the most elderly people, aged 65 and more.7

7 Risk for pedestrians in Poland is very high (49 pedestrians killed out of 1 million inhabitants). It significantly exceeds the level noted in other EU countries. Darkness, twilight, are very dangerous for pedestrians. This risk applies mainly to middle aged (45-64) and elderly (64+) people. In the case of cyclists, the largest group of killed in accidents are older men aged 60 and over (40% of killed). Also the highest ratio of killed cyclists per 1 million inhabitants is for men aged 60 and over.

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Tourism

Tourism understood as social force plays a very important role in today’s world. It brings benefits to individuals, to society, to the economy and to the community. Individual benefits include mainly: physical renewal, improvement of mental health, possibilities of social interaction, widening of horizons, development of independence, building of relationships within the family, overcoming social isolation, increase of self- confidence, change of perspectives, escape from routine, and occasion for reflection. Learning opportunities and building family and social capital are also very important. For this reason, tourism figures prominently in the management of free time of older people, renewal of their physical and mental capacities, and building of solidarity between generations. The need to undertake actions in order to improve access to tourist services by certain groups, including older people, is recorded in the governmental programme document for the development of tourism in Poland. The title of the document is "Guidelines for the development of tourism until 2015". The document was submitted by the Minister of Sport and Tourism and approved by the Council of Ministers on 26 September 2008. The full wording of the task is as follows: “Proposed activities aimed at increasing the participation of the Poles in domestic tourism, with a particular focus on an improved availability of services for children and young people, for the disabled, for older people, and for the families”. The task is the subject of work carried out by the Inter-Ministerial Team for Coordination of the Government’s Tasks described in the “Guidelines…”. Implementing this task, the Ministry of Sport and Tourism became actively involved in the implementation of a European Commission initiative in the area of social tourism, i.e. in CALYPSO Preparatory Action – Tourist Exchanges System in Europe.8 To assist in the implementation of the Project, in the second half of 2011 Poland commissioned an analysis of the profile of the senior citizens segment. At the request of the Ministry of Sport and Tourism, a study “preferences of older people as regards tourist trips” was prepared. The study was carried out on a representative group of 1067 inhabitants of Poland aged more than 55 (taking into account sex, place of residence, education and level of income, as well as preferences regarding the purpose of the trip, preferred type of accommodation, type of activities during the trip, type of transport, dates of departure and the level of assistance for the tourist trip). The study shows that in 2012 27% of persons interviewed expressed an intention to travel as tourists, including 10% interested in domestic travel, 9% in travelling in Poland and abroad, and 8% in travelling abroad.

8 Under the CALYPSO action, the Ministry of Sport and Tourism together with SEGITTUR from Spain and INATEL Foundation from Portugal are implementing a pilot project named European Senior Travellers (EST). The Project aims to encourage the exchange of senior citizens between Portugal, Spain and Poland. The resulting model will be the beginning of future international exchanges of older people between all EU Member States wich will voluntarily want to join this initiative, without ruling out that it can also be transferable to other groups of social tourism (young people, families facing difficult social circumstances and people with disabilities). The European Senior Travellers (EST) Project is being implemented over 11 months: 1 March 2011 – 31 January 2012.

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It is envisaged that as a result of international tourist exchanges senior citizens will be able to travel at accessible prices and in appropriate conditions. Taking part in EST will help to increase the level of activity of senior citizens, their participation in the community, and in social and cultural life. This in turn will improve their mental and physical wellbeing and prevent social exclusion. Independently, the Department for Tourism of the Ministry of Sport and Tourism published an open competition of offers for public tasks in the area of tourism in 2012. One of its terms stipulates that preference will be given to tasks which take account of the major European and global events in 2012, including the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations 2012. NGOs from the tourism sector are actively involved in the development of social tourism, including an increased participation of older people in tourism. The Polish Tourism and Sightseeing Association (PTTK) can be cited as an example. People over 50 constitute about 50% of the membership of the Association. They are active in specialised clubs, in 45 clubs for pensioners, in 220 special-interest groups in their workplaces, and in 506 local clubs. These interest groups and clubs organise special events for older people, including nordic walking tours. Older people active in tourism and sightseeing are awarded badges. In 1973 a special badge for “Senior Tourist” was introduced. Overall however, PTTK does not segregate persons in this age group, emphasising instead their integration and solidarity between generations. PTTK believes that with the support of this social group it is easier to implement the programme of tourism education of the young generation. For this reason the Association prepared a project “From Grandson to Grandad”, which is a family-oriented tourism initiative. On 16 October 2010, the Head Office of PTTK adopted a resolution declaring the year 2011 a PTTK Year of Family-Oriented Tourism. Nowadays, when so much is being said about the crisis of values, this form of tourism has a special role to play by providing a great opportunity to build family links and to bring together different generations. As part of the Year of Family-Oriented Tourism, the PTTK Head Office announced and organised the National Competition “Tourist Family”. On the basis of a Head Office resolution of 22 October 2011, this competition will also be organised in 2012 and in following years. Other NGOs, for example Folk Sport Teams or the Association of Managers of Recreational and Tourist Facilities, prepare offers for older people, including people with disabilities, as part of their tasks in the area of social tourism. It can be assumed that this practice will continue in 2012. It is worth mentioning that offers addressed to selected social groups, including older people, are in general less expensive, which makes it easier for them to participate in tourist and recreational events.

Sport

The role of sport as a tool of social policy is mentioned more and more often by sociologists and by politicians. The role of sport is also emphasised in the context of promotion of healthy living, as a tool in fighting obesity, and as a factor in counteracting a sedentary lifestyle. In modern societies sport is one of the more important and fast developing cultural values, which has an impact on the development of personality and on an improvement of human health and the 24 quality of life. Sport is an important element of formal and informal education and of social activation of citizens, thus strengthening human capital. In view of a growing percentage of older people in Europe, including in Poland, it becomes increasingly important to support their ageing in good health. This is important not only for increasing the participation of older people in the labour market and making it possible for them to remain active in society for a longer period of time, but it also contributes to improving the quality of life of individuals and to alleviating burdens on health and social security systems. There is more and more evidence showing how important physical activity is for older people. Even though in the case of many older people their health status may be the result of their earlier lifestyle, in their adulthood or their youth, nevertheless the level of physical activity of older people constitutes an important factor which determines their ability to live independently. Positive effects of regular physical activity cover both mental (life satisfaction) and physical, physiological and social aspects of life. Physical fitness of older people determines their quality of life and allows them to maintain social contacts, helps in their further development, and facilitates their acceptance in the community. Physical activity, apart from the positive impact on the biological side of the body’s ageing processes, contributes to social activity and mobilisation, counteracting isolation and social exclusion. Thus, it is important to raise awareness of the general public as regards the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and significance of physical activity for ageing in good mental and physical condition and for acceptance. Taking into consideration the importance of advocating a healthy lifestyle through promotion and education and an increase of physical activity of senior citizens, the Ministry of Sport and Tourism treats as priority tasks implemented in cooperation with local authorities and NGOs under the programme “Popularisation and support for the development of sport for everyone”.

Culture

Under the Development of Social Capital Strategy, the implementation of objectives, priorities and lines of action takes into account, among other things, the principle of social cohesion, social ties and social solidarity. Activities addressed to mature and older people are also taken into account in a special way in the Operational Objective 1 Shaping of attitudes fostering cooperation, creativity and communications, with a view to achieving 1.2.2. Development of media-related competences through training other than formal, in particular among people aged 50 and over and in rural areas. The activity undertaken by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage is called the Houses of Culture Plus Programme (this initiative was inaugurated in 2010, currently a pilot programme is being implemented by the National Cultural Centre). The strategic objective of the programme is to improve access to culture and participation in cultural activities in rural areas, in mixed rural and urban areas and in urban areas (in communes and municipalities with up to 20 thousand inhabitants). The concept behind its implementation is to initiate the process of transformation of existing cultural centres in Poland (so-called ‘Houses of Culture’) into modern centres for local cultural events which actively animate the cultural life of the local community, and which promote attitudes involving active participation in cultural

25 life. In planning their activities they would take into account different groups of participants (older people, people with disabilities, children from pathological families, persons from socially and economically deprived backgrounds). In July 2011 the second priority of the programme was launched. Co-financing under that priority was granted to, among other things, educational projects designed to support intergenerational activities based on cooperation and tolerance, preservation of tradition and culture of the region, combatting social exclusion and its consequences. The role of older people in these activities, in particular in the localities where ageing of the community is noticeable, constitutes an important aspect of the project. Senior citizens may be recipients of and participants in the projects (activation of older people), but they can also implement the projects (volunteering by older people).

In addition, through the Minister’s programme “Cultural Education and Diagnosis of Culture”, projects focused on integration between generations and activation of older people are supported under Priority 1 Cultural Education. In accordance with the rules of the Cultural Education priority, eligible tasks include integration tasks based on the cooperation of representatives of different age groups and different communities. Applications submitted under this programme are assessed, among other things, from the point of view of social criteria which reward projects which provide enhanced opportunities in access to culture, which counteract any form of social exclusion and which involve representatives of different social groups at risk of social isolation, including senior citizens. In view of the specificity of the programme, subsidised projects focus on the development of creative activities of senior citizens by inviting them to participate in different forms of interactive artistic activities, often involving cooperation with young people. Co-financed projects also promote creative achievements of senior citizens, helping them to develop creativity and to improve their quality of life. In addition, the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage co-finances an innovative, interdisciplinary artistic festival of Universities of the Third Age (there are about 200 of them in Poland), called International Third Age Students Festival, which is a platform for meetings and integration of artistic movements of senior citizens from different countries. The festival is the biggest such in Poland. The organisers of the festival, the AVE Foundation in Warsaw, estimate that approximately 2000 persons from Poland and from other European countries participate in the event. In next year’s edition of Priority 1 Cultural Education of the programme called “Cultural Education and Diagnosis of Culture” the principle of supporting activities aimed at counteracting social or cultural isolation will be maintained. Therefore, those involved in the implementation of projects addressed to senior citizens and supporting integration between generations will be able to avail of co-financing from the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage. Apart from activities undertaken by the Ministry, various artistic and educational programmes addressed to older people are organised by national cultural institutions (the Minister of Culture and National Heritage is the organiser for these institutions), as part of their statutory tasks. Almost all national institutions, such as theatres, musical institutions, galleries and art centres are now permanently involved in such activities, financed from specific grants. One such example is a monthly project of the National Art Gallery “Zachęta”, called “To

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Look/To See”, developed and jointly presented by two art historians – one senior, one junior – i.e. a former and a current curator of this institution. It stands out because of a very interesting formula involving getting acquainted with contemporary art through the eyes of different generations. Another example is the newly established Music and Dance Institute in Warsaw which, in order to obtain a valuable programme item, carried out a special competition for a proposal of workshops for older people. The Modern Art Centre Zamek Ujazdowski in Warsaw also offers a wide range of proposals within the Laboratory of Creative Education, a multi-element, comprehensive educational programme implemented in cooperation with Universities of the Third Age, Seniors Clubs, etc. At the same time, projects of the Laboratory of Creative Education such as “Museum without walls”, “Open museum”, “Modern Art – the instruction manual” promoting participation in modern art are mainly addressed to that age group. A special added value of animation and creative activities carried out by subordinated institutions is their universal character expressed by simultaneous involvement of different age groups, in order to avoid the creation of age-related ghettoes. In carrying out these activities, institutions cooperate with many NGOs whose members are aged 60 and over. In addition, establishments subordinated to the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage often offer reduced price entrance tickets for senior citizens. Exhibition organisers also offer to visitors one day when there are no entrance charges. Older people often avail of this offer.

Volunteering

The Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, which is the National Coordinating Body for the European Year of Voluntary Activities Promoting Active Citizenship (2011), undertook, in the implementation of the National Action Plan, a number of activities aimed both at popularisation of voluntary activities among mature people, and at promotion of activities of senior citizens who are already active as volunteers. Older people are traditionally regarded as beneficiaries of voluntary activities. However, there are signs of shifting in the way of thinking about senior citizens and their involvement in voluntary work. Increasingly more attention is paid to the potential which older people can offer, i.e. their experience, free time and practical wisdom. As a result, senior citizens have now more and more possibilities to act as volunteers, and not only to avail of the work of others. In planning and implementing above-mentioned activities, the results of studies regarding the existing level of involvement of older people in voluntary activities were taken into account. Studies carried out by the Klon/ Jawor Association on voluntary activities in Poland in 2010 indicate that approximately 16% of Poles are involved in volunteering. Persons aged more than 55 constitute only 10% of those involved. It is important to note that only 7% of pensioners are engaged in volunteering. Mature persons aged more than 55 generally point to their physical inability to provide assistance as the main reason (17%) for not becoming involved in any volunteering. Results of a study carried out in Poland in 2006 as part of the programme “Nothing but pluses. Volunteering at 50+” are also an important source of information. The objective of this study was to learn about attitudes to volunteering of people aged over 50, their motivations, fears and perceived benefits. The study was also designed to obtain information on how organisations see 27 their possibilities as regards cooperation with older volunteers. 300 people aged 50 and over participated in the study, as well as 70 organisations and institutions. It transpired that persons interviewed usually perceived volunteering as an activity for young people. In many cases the respondents were not aware that older people can also become volunteers. Overall, more than 83% of the respondents had heard the term “volunteering”, but not all of them knew what it meant. In the opinion of representatives of institutions and organisations which cooperate or cooperated with senior citizen volunteers, these persons are responsible, patient, reliable, flexible, sensitive and have life experience. Organisations which do not cooperate with volunteers aged over 50 give as the main reason for this situation the lack of candidates from this age group among volunteers offering their services 47.5%). The results of the study show that organisations are open to start cooperation with older volunteers. However, necessary measures have to be taken in order to encourage senior citizens to become involved in volunteering. In the context of this diagnosis, a number of activities were planned and implemented as part of the European Year of Volunteering in Poland. It should be noted that main target groups for activities in the area of mutual communication were older people and young people. This is of particular importance in the context of EY 2012 of which activities promoting solidarity between generations constitute an integral part. In order to strengthen a systemic approach to volunteering, a Long-term policy governing the development of volunteering in Poland was adopted. It includes guidelines and recommendations which are to be taken into account in planning public policies in the next twenty years. This document was prepared taking into account national and Community law, available results of studies and strategic documents, including the Social Capital Development Strategy for 2011-2020, and the report Poland 2030. The document determines objectives to be set in public policy for the development of volunteering. At the European level, and having regard to the Polish Presidency of the EU Council in the second half of 2011, EU Council conclusions on the role of voluntary activities in social policy were prepared and adopted at the initiative of the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy. The document stated inter alia that “Promotion of voluntary activities can play a role in the implementation of the initiatives of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations (2012)”. The importance of voluntary activities was stressed “for acquiring competences, achieving social inclusion, improving the capacities and well-being of older people and for benefiting from their knowledge, skills and experience.”

Equal treatment

In addition to areas mentioned earlier, the activities of the State also focus on activities aimed at counteracting age-related discrimination. Different provisions of the Labour Code provide for measures of protection of which the injured parties may avail if their rights are violated. Older women may experience a so-called multiple discrimination, i.e. discrimination as a result of age and sex, and in some cases as a result of other factors. The problem of gender equality is particularly important in analysing the situation of persons aged over fifty on the labour market. It should be noted that the issue of abandoning a professional career

28 because of caring duties applies primarily to women from urban areas. The situation of women from rural areas is different because most of the members of this group were never in employment.. For this reason, activation of older women in rural areas differs considerably from similar activities conducted in urban areas. This is of particular importance in Poland where rural areas are ageing. Senior citizens from rural areas are subject to multiple discrimination. There is age discrimination, discrimination related to the place of residence, to the economic situation, and in the case of women, there is an additional discrimination related to gender. Their access to educational offers and to activation measures is limited. Therefore, this group requires measures which take into account their specific needs. It should be mentioned in this context that the situation of people aged over 50 on the labour market is quite special. They are often affected by long-term unemployment and therefore require appropriate support and specific activation methods.

Dialogue with non-governmental organisations

The Ministry of Labour and Social Policy co-finances activities for the benefit of older people carried out by entities from the non-governmental sector. They were selected in an open competition of offers under the Civic Initiatives Fund (FIO) which in 2008 was implemented as a Governmental Programme and since 2009 it has been a component of the Operational Programme of the FIO 2009 – 2013. In 2009 the support area called Activation of old people, integration between generations was planned under Priority 3 Integration and social activation. Social security (Area No 6). Activities focus in particular on the development of different forms of participation of senior citizens in projects enhancing their role in local communities, on helping to develop solidarity between generations, and on integration of senior citizens with young people availing of different potentials of these two social groups. Projects should use the principle of empowerment in different forms – involving beneficiaries in activities and decisions undertaken during the projects.

1.2. Measures in support of older people – regional and local dimensions

Tasks carried out at the regional level consist of financial support provided in the form of grants and subsidies to NGOs operating in the area of supporting active ageing. In addition, there is a growing interest on the part of regional authorities (including local government) in the demographic situation and its changes. Therefore, training and studies covering demographic changes are organised at the regional level.

Usually the non-public, institutional facilities for promoting the idea of active ageing are made available on the premises of Universities of the Third Age, senior citizens clubs, senior citizens councils, or active ageing centres.

Local governments organise different forms of social support for older people. Often, in cooperation with NGOs, they participate in international projects which help to develop organisational capacities to improve the opportunities for active ageing. The objective of 29 these measures is to bring about active participation of older people in the life of local communities.

The source of financing of actions undertaken by local authorities for the benefit of older people include own funds as well as funds originating from, inter alia, the European Social Fund. Many activities are implemented under the Operational Programme Human Capital (OP HC). An important component of projects under the OP HC is the implementation of the age management strategy.

It should be stressed that from the regional and local perspective and in the context of active ageing it is important to apply the principle of universal planning – planning “for everybody”. Moreover, changes in the age structure of society should be taken into account in spatial planning, the development of infrastructure and public transport.

1.3. New initiatives in the area of active ageing and promotion of measures for integration between generations

Main directions which should form the basis for new initiatives to the benefit of older people include: • promotion of the concept of active ageing through systemic solutions; • popularisation of the idea of active ageing and of values resulting from the extension of occupational and social activity; • change of attitudes of business operators to the activity of older people as an element of age management in the public and private sectors.

2. Entities involved in activities supporting active ageing 2.1. Public administration

To coordinate work under the EY 2012 a working group was set up, chaired by the National Coordinator for EY 2012 Ms Czesława Ostrowska, Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy. Preparation of the Comprehensive Plan of Action (CPA) for the EY 2012 involved meetings of representatives of State administration at different levels, as well as representatives of the third sector. In addition, the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy organised regular bilateral meetings on cooperation with institutions involved in the implementation of EY 2012 objectives in organising the events under the EY 2012

2.2. Non-governmental organisations and involvement of civil society

At the end of July / beginning of August 2011, the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy published on its website information on the preparation of the Comprehensive Plan of Action (CPA) for the EY 2012. Several dozen organisations from all over Poland responded to the invitation to submit proposals for the CPA EY 2012. They included organisations with quite a diversified territorial scope which are involved in different types of regular and occasional activities for the benefit of older people in the regions. As part of cooperation with these 30 organisations, the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy intends to assume patronage over them and participate in the organisation of events which will be held to mark EY 2012. Moreover, an informal Team for EY 2012 is to be appointed. Organisations and institutions operating in the area of active ageing have been invited to participate in this Team.

3. Information activities during EY 2012

The main information activities during EY 2012 will be carried out by the Representation of the European Commission in Warsaw and the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy. The main support provider will be the organisation P.A.U. Education which won the competition (organised by the European Commission) to implement the communication strategy in all countries involved in the celebration of EY 2012. Activities of P.A.U. Education also include the establishment of an information database for journalists specialised in the problems of ageing and in challenges connected with the ageing of society. An important communication instrument of EY 2012 is the website of the Year: http://ec.europa.eu/social/ey2012.jsp, which provides day-to-day information and updating on events and initiatives implemented under EY 2012 in different countries.

In addition, information and educational activities carried out by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue and will contribute to the promotion in 2012 of the EY 2012.

• The project of an information campaign on the occasion of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations is an element of joint information activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Representation of the European Commission in Poland and the Information Office of the European Parliament in Poland under the partnership in management. The project is co-financed from European Union funds. The project envisages an information campaign at the end of 2011/ beginning of 2012 in national and regional media on the situation of older people in Europe and in Poland, on challenges facing Europe as a result of the ageing of its society, and on opportunities provided by using the potential of older people. Another objective of the campaign is to encourage senior citizens to adopt an active lifestyle, making it possible to follow their own passions and to share experience with the young generation.

In January 2012, close to the Grandmothers and Grandfathers Day, an event will be organised in Warsaw summing-up the information campaign. It will take the form of a presentation during which representatives of the older and younger generations will present possibilities and methods of building links between generations in different areas of life. In addition, an information seminar on the issues of EY 2012 will be organised for journalists representing regional and local media.

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• The Competition for NGOs to devise projects connected with the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations is an element of joint information activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Representation of the European Commission in Poland and the Information Office of the European Parliament in Poland under a partnership in management strategy. The competition is co-financed from European Union funds.

The competition will be addressed to NGOs involved with Universities of the Third Age or organisations which will conclude agreements with selected Universities of the Third Age to carry out that project. The subject of the project will be the organisation of a one-semester course at a University of the Third Age regarding issues covered by the EY 2012.

It is envisaged that the amount of approximately EUR 200 thousand will be made available for the competition. The publication of the competition notice is planned for the 1st quarter of 2012 and it will be placed on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and on the website ngo.pl. Information about the competition will be also available on websites of the Representation of the European Commission in Poland and the Information Office of the European Parliament in Poland. Projects selected as a result of the competition will be implemented as of September 2012.

• The cycle of monthly lectures European Union for senior citizens organised by the European Information Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and by the Regional European Information Centres network will include meetings for older people, for people attending Universities of the Third Age, and for members of senior citizens associations.

During the meetings, it will be possible for invited guests to listen to lectures by invited experts from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, from other Ministries, or from one of the NGOs. These meetings will also play a social role, providing an opportunity to establish social contacts. The project EU for the Senior Citizens carried out since 2006 will be continued in 2012. The subjects covered during lectures will refer to the issues of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations (2012) and will also cover the organisation of free time, independent development of projects, and cooperation between organisations supporting the activities of older persons.

• The Project Fairytale Europe brings generations together was developed as a result of cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Representation of the European Commission in Poland and the Information Office of the European Parliament in Poland under a partnership in management. The project is co-financed from European Union funds. The project was implemented in December 2011.

The project concerned activation of senior citizens under the European Year of Voluntary Activities Promoting Active Citizenship (2011) and the promotion of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations announced for 2012. It consisted of meetings organised with pre-school and schoolchildren in 16 Polish towns. During these meetings senior citizen volunteers read European fairytales and animators organised games and 32 sport activities, arts and crafts activities, quizzes and riddles about the European Union. A website for the project was launched www.bajkowaeuropa.eu, where it is possible to find information about the project, the timetable, and reports on meetings held in different Voivodships. There is also a possibility to vote for the friendliest senior citizen volunteer.

• The Project European Film Library is a cyclical project implemented by the European Information Centre in cooperation with the Polish Filmmakers Association.

In 2008, in the context of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue, the European Information Centre (CIE) launched a project European Film Library, involving showing films free of charge in the registered office of the CIE. Some of the films were obtained as a result of cooperation with the embassies of European countries, and others were purchased.

The project was continued in following years: in 2009, which was declared to be the European Year of Creativity and Innovation, and in 2010, which became the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion.

In 2012 the project will refer to the subjects of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations and the activities will be carried out in cooperation with communities which support active ageing.

A film festival of a few days duration, FE Fest, is organised every year in November in Kultura cinema. Feature films and documentaries dealing with the problems of older people are presented during the festival. After the festival, all the films are shown again free of charge in the European Information Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

• A calendar for senior citizens issued on the occasion of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations is an element of joint activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Representation of the European Commission in Poland and the Information Office of the European Parliament in Poland under a partnership in management. It is co-financed from European Union funds. The calendar was created in cooperation with the Academy of Development of Philanthropy and the Social Investments Company.

The calendar presents profiles of senior citizens who are actively involved in the lives of local communities, who develop their passions, and share their experience and knowledge with the young generation. It also includes information on EY 2012 and on initiatives undertaken by different institutions and organisations for the benefit of older people.

The calendars will be sent at the end of 2011/ beginning of 2012 to the Regional European Information Centre network, to the Europe Direct network, and to more than 300 Universities of the Third Age throughout the country.

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4. Annex

4.1. Calendar of central events9

No. Month Organiser Event Ministry of Labour and 1. 8 February GET INVOLVED! Social Policy 2. 7 March President’s Chancery; International conference on Ministry of Labour activities during the celebration and Social Policy of EY 2012 3. 21 May Ministry of Sport and Conference on Tourism Shaping of a healthy lifestyle of in cooperation with the senior citizens by promoting Ministry of Labour and physical activity and health Social Policy and the education Ministry of Health 4. September Ministry of Labour and Senior citizens days Social Policy 1. General day – speeches by Ministry of Sport and politicians, and by Tourism representatives of regional and Organisations local authorities operating in the area of activity of older people 2. Day of sport and health 3. Day of education, culture and volunteering 5. September Ministry of Culture and 2nd edition of the action National Heritage “60+culture” with a slogan “The first weekend of autumn is the cultural weekend for senior citizens” 6. October, Ministry of Sport and National Social Campaign Tourism/ local Promoting Physical Education/ authorities World Walking Day 7. December Ministry of Sport and Intergenerational Activities Festival Tourism/ The European 50+ Physical Activity Promotion Ministry of Labour and 8. December Conference closing EY 2012 Social Policy

9 Updating of events: http://analizy.mpips.gov.pl/index.php/wydarzenia-er2012.html 34

4.2. Calendar of regional events10

No. Month Organiser Event 1. 29 February Regional Social Policy Regional Conference Centre, Marshal's inaugurating celebrations of Office of the EY 2012 Warmińsko-Mazurskie Voivodship 2. 17-18 March International Poznań Fair “Active at 50+” Fair/ City of Poznań/ Marshal of the Wielkopolskie Voivodship Coordination by the Centre for Senior Citizen Initiatives, Poznań 3. April Local Government 6th Lower Silesia Forum of of the Universities of the Third Age Dolnośląskie Voivodship 4. April Information and 1st Wrocław Forum of NGOs Social operating for the benefit of Development older people Centre, Wrocław 5. 22-23 May Centre for Senior International conference on Citizen Initiatives, intergenerational dialogue Poznań 6. June Regional Social Conference on “Old age, actions for Policy Centre, the benefit of senior citizens and Kraków possibilities to adapt to demographic changes” (preceded by a competition for/ about older people) 7. 10-16 September Marshal’s Office of the Warmia Mazury Senior Games Warmińsko–Mazurskie 2012 Voivodship Olsztyn, Iława, LidzbarkWarmiński

10Updating of events: http://analizy.mpips.gov.pl/index.php/wydarzenia-er-2012-regionalne.html 35

8. 17-19 September Regional Park for Senior Citizens Congress in the Culture and Regional Park for Culture and Recreation named Recreation after General Jerzy Ziętek 9. September Information and Days of Senior Citizens - Wrocław Social Development 2012 Centre in Wrocław, Senior Citizens Centre 10. September Information and Senior Citizens Fair Social Development Centre in Wrocław, Senior Citizens Centre 11. October, Centre for Senior Seigniorial – International Citizens Initiatives, Day of Older Persons + senior Poznań citizens activity walk 12. October, Local Government of Celebration of the International the Dolnośląskie Day of Older Persons Voivodship 13. October, Marshal’s Office Organisation of the 14th of the Lubuskie Lubuskie Senior Citizens Voivodship Week 14. October, Information and Forum of Leaders of Senior Social Development Citizens Clubs Centre in Wrocław Regional Social Policy 15. November Third Days of Solidarity Culture Centre Poznań

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4.3. List of initiatives of Universities of the Third Age (UTW)11 No Month Organiser Event 1. 28-29 February UTA Ostrów Second Forum of the Management Wielkopolski Staff of UTAs from Wielkopolskie Voivodship 2. 19 March University of the Third Age UTAs Congress under the at the Warsaw School of slogan Innovative UTAs for Economics, innovative economy and civic Polish Federation of UTA 20 March society Associations, Expert panels and workshops – Foundation for the Jagiellonian University Galeria Porczyńskich 3. May University of the Third Age National Olympic Games: Third in Łazy Age Ready, Steady, Go! 4. 2 June University of the Third Age Community games “We are all in Ostrów Wielkopolski fit” 5. June University of the Third Age Celebration of the UTA with the in Rybnik participation of guests from other UTAs combined with 10th anniversary of the University 6. June UTA at the Warsaw School Outdoor integration events for of Economics senior citizens at Służewiec 7. August/ September Third Age University in National Cycling Rally Łazy named “ I tour senior” 8. September National Federation of Third Age Forum. UTA Associations Conference to be held during UTA in Nowy Sącz the 22nd Economic Forum in Krynica Zdrój 9. September/ October University of the Third Age Scientific international conference in Słupsk on the subject Old and young, wisdom heritage 10. October UTA Gliwice National inauguration of the academic year UTA 2012/2013 11. October/ November National Federation of Conference and scientific session UTAs at the Jagiellonian University (UJ) on the 30th anniversary of UTW at the UJ 12. December National Federation of Conference summing-up the UTAs Associations results of celebrations of the UTA YEAR

11 Updating of events: http://analizy.mpips.gov.pl/index.php/wydarzenia-er-2012-utw.html 37