2012 is the European Year of Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations. The 2012 year's theme is, according to the European Commission, an occasion to reflect on how Europeans are living longer and staying healthier than ever before, and to realise the opportunities that represents. 2011 was the European Year of Volunteering.

The European Commission took the decision of designate 2012 as European Year of Active Ageing in 2010. With this decision, the Commission intends to boost the the efforts of Member States, their regional and local authorities, social partners and civil society to promote active ageing. Active ageing can give the baby-boom generation and tomorrow's older adults the opportunity to stay in the workforce and share their experience; keep playing an active role in society, and live as healthy and fulfilling lives as possible. During 2012, the EU would focus many of its programmes and policies on the issue of active ageing.

Thus, the Commission reminds to the politicians and stakeholders the existing challenge to improve opportunities for active ageing in general and for living independently, acting in areas as diverse as employment, health care, social services, adult learning, volunteering, housing, IT services or transport.

In addition, this year's theme includes the solidarity between generations. The Commission highlights the importance to maintain solidarity between generations in societies with rapidly increasing numbers of older people. In 2012, the focus of the European Year would be on starting to implement the commitments made during 2011, on raising awareness among the general public, publicising these initiatives through media activities and the involvement of other multipliers. Results of active ageing projects funded under existing budget lines and programmes would be presented.