A Vision for the Future: Innovations in Care for Older Adults in the Netherlands

Abstract

million (see chart on page 74: Senior Population Index: the Netherlands 1970-2018). This growing population of older people has a wide range of needs, and the government’s aim is for society to accommodate these needs through innovative and pragmatic solutions that challenge outmoded ideas about the “sunset of life.” This vision did not develop overnight; it evolved from a long tradition of care for older adults in the Netherlands. In previous decades, this care was usually standardized in large-scale institutions. The current approach is increasingly personalized. This modernized vision is one of the pillars of the “Growing Old with Dignity” manifesto, to which the current government committed itself in its coalition agreement. The manifesto pledges support to people who are living longer, and calls for helping people live gratifying lives into old age. Older adults are a vital part of our nation’s future and make many valuable contributions to society. I strongly believe that one is never too old to participate. It is important that society appreciates and recognizes the capacities and contributions of our older citizens and offer them the care and support they deserve. To this end, I formed a Pact on Care for Older Adults in March 2018 with various civil society organizations, social enterprises, companies, and ANBO, the Dutch advocacy group for older people. Together we will work to improve care for and support to older citizens at the regional, local, and neighborhood levels. By now, over 170 organizations have signed the pact, which introduced three interconnected programs: Aging in Place (focused on better-quality care at home and developing new types of housing), Nursing Home Care (focused on improving the quality of nursing home care), and United Against Loneliness (focused on reducing loneliness and social isolation among older adults). These programs are described in detail below. A Vision for the Future: Innovations in Care for Older Adults in the Netherlands By Hugo de Jonge