Certain milestones say a lot about a city’s values – and Vienna’s decision to become the first Austrian city to join the WHO Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities is definitely one such milestone. For me, this step confirms that Vienna wants to be a city that supports people in all stages of their lives.
Ageing populations are one of the defining challenges of modern cities. The WHO initiative, founded in 2010, now brings together 1,445 cities from 51 countries, all committed to creating environments where older people can thrive. It focuses on helping cities adapt to demographic change so that older residents can live independently, stay socially connected, and enjoy a high quality of life.
Vienna already does many things right in this area. From accessible and affordable housing to strong healthcare services, meaningful social participation, and a clear focus on prevention.
Vienna’s Commissioner for Older People, Sabine Hofer-Gruber, has highlighted the importance of international cooperation within the WHO network, and I completely agree. Cities don’t have to reinvent the wheel. By exchanging successful approaches and learning from one another, they can develop smarter, more humane solutions for ageing societies.
For me, Vienna’s membership in this network is a clear signal that ageing is being taken seriously in Vienna.
If you notice any inaccuracies in my writing, please get in touch with me. I will be happy to correct it.
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