Participation and community in ageing societies
Discover how to analyze and overcome barriers to inclusion faced by older people. Learn about the latest policies, technologies, and community practices. Are you interested in building a fairer and more inclusive society for all generations and especially for older adults? Join our online course, “Participation and community in ageing societies”. Here, you’ll discover how to analyze and overcome barriers to inclusion faced by older people. Learn about the latest policies, technologies, and community practices shaping the lives of ageing populations in Europe and beyond. The course is open for students from all fields who are interested in inclusion, social justice, age-friendly society, and community engagement. This is a full online course that is not tied to any specific time or place. It can be completed at your own pace at any time between February 1 and May 31, 2026. The course consists of five modules, each organized by a specific topic. Every module includes self-study materials and several small assignments. After completing the course, students will be able to: define the concept of social inclusion and identify key factors influencing the inclusion of older adults. identify the rights of older adults at international, national, and local levels. describe ageing policies and programmes relevant to their country or city. recognize main threats to inclusion, such as social exclusion, ageism, loneliness, and care poverty. explain the role of technology and digitalization in supporting or impeding the inclusion of older adults. discuss ethical issues and user-friendliness related to technology for older adults. give examples of opportunities for community participation, civic engagement, and cultural wellbeing. Social inclusion in older age Rights of older adults Ageing policies and programmes Threats to inclusion (social exclusion, ageism, loneliness, care poverty) Declining functional capacity and nutrition in later life Technology for inclusion: ethical use and user-friendliness Community participation, civic engagement, and cultural wellbeing