Ex-Vice Chancellor Franz Müntefering of "Lokalrunde" discusses the topic of aging.
In the picturesque town of Meerbusch, Germany, a vibrant and supportive environment for senior citizens is taking shape. The town's commitment to fostering active and independent living for older adults is evident in various initiatives that cater to the political, social, economic, and personal needs of its aging population.
Franz Müntefering, a prominent figure in German social democracy, recently travelled from Berlin to Meerbusch, drawn by the town's reputation for cultivated exchange. Müntefering, known for his powerful speeches encouraging reflection and action, praised the existence of a senior council in Meerbusch. He advocated for making senior councils mandatory for all communities in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), emphasizing the importance of including the views of older people in political decisions.
One of the key initiatives in Meerbusch is the comprehensive offering of Volkshochschule (VHS) courses. These adult education centres provide a wide range of continuing education courses tailored for seniors, promoting lifelong learning, social participation, and personal development in older age. The courses address various interests and needs and encourage social engagement among the elderly.
Meerbusch also prioritises senior-friendly housing, ensuring accessibility, safety, and comfort for older adults. Senior-friendly housing developments are designed to support independent living while providing opportunities for social interaction and community integration, critical for seniors' wellbeing.
To enhance mobility and safety for older residents, Meerbusch has implemented smart traffic light systems. These systems accommodate the pace and sensory needs of elderly pedestrians, reducing accident risks and improving their confidence and freedom to move around the city.
The role of senior councils in Meerbusch cannot be understated. They serve as representatives and advocates for the interests of older adults, facilitating communication between seniors and local government, influencing policy-making, and helping develop programs that address the political and social needs of the aging population.
Hakan Temel, the SPD candidate for district administrator in the Rhein-Kreis Neuss, emphasized the importance of sports and exercise in old age. He also stressed the need for a good network of pedestrian and cycle paths, as 95% of Meerbusch's elderly population lives in their own homes.
The working group 60+ in Meerbusch advocates for more parking spaces and drinking fountains for older people, with the aim of benefiting all road users. Over 30% of Meerbusch's population is over 60 years old, underscoring the need for age-friendly policies and infrastructure.
Over 40 guests attended a lively discussion in Meerbusch, with Chantal Messing, chairwoman of the SPD Meerbusch, emphasizing the importance of solidarity, dignity, and respect in the city. The event, which included coffee and cake, highlighted the exchange and experience of the elderly as beneficial to all generations, including Messing's and her children's.
One such initiative that embodies this commitment is the "Radeln ohne Alter" (Cycling Without Age) project, which promotes social participation and mobility for seniors through volunteer-driven rickshaw rides. The active training and community involvement in Meerbusch serve as a testament to the town's dedication to empowering seniors and fostering a comprehensive approach to aging in place.
In conclusion, Meerbusch's multifaceted approach to supporting its aging population reflects its commitment to creating an age-friendly city that supports its older citizens politically, socially, economically, and on a personal level.
In light of the comprehensive efforts being made, Meerbusch could be a model for promoting health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise among older adults, as emphasized by Hakan Temel. The town's focus on senior-friendly housing and smart traffic light systems demonstrates a concern for their safety and independence, while initiatives like the senior council and the "Radeln ohne Alter" (Cycling Without Age) project emphasize the importance of social participation and personal development. Moreover, the existence of Volkshochschule (VHS) courses offers lifelong learning opportunities catering specifically to the needs of seniors, further promoting their wellbeing and contributions to the community.
