A critical perspective

Subtitle:towards a broader understanding of 'active ageing'

The current paper explains the origin of the active ageing discourse and addresses the diverging definitions that have been used since its introduction. Generally speaking, a differentiation is made between a narrow view of active ageing (i.e. focusing on labour, care and other traditional activities) and a broad perspective. The hazards of applying a narrow point of view are addressed, as such approaches are primarily concerned with the young-old and the distinction between active and passive behaviours is ambiguous. Research and policy implications of broadening the active ageing discourse are discussed.

Publication year:2011