‘Silvering’ Lithuania: Strengthening the economy by improving the quality of life of people aged 50–65

Problem

Although population ageing is observed throughout the European Union, Lithuania is facing one of the fastest ageing rates. Such demographic changes put significant pressure on the country’s economy as well as health and social service systems. People of retirement age in Lithuania face complex systemic risks: deteriorating health, multiple chronic diseases, increased risk of poverty, difficulties in integrating into the labour market, social isolation, and loneliness.

It should be noted that these problems do not emerge suddenly – risks start to increase in the 50+ age group. It is precisely during this period that indicators of health, employment rate, as well as social, cultural, and political participation decline sharply compared to younger age groups.

Currently, various initiatives and state measures are in place in Lithuania to address the challenges of people of retirement age. However, there is a lack of preventive action aimed at early identification and reduction of risks before retirement age. Targeted intervention measures could help ensure that people in their late careers and of retirement age remain healthy, active, and engaged in economic and social life for longer. Greater activity, purchasing power, and better health within this population group would reduce pressure on national healthcare and social service systems, while also helping to address the problem of a shrinking labour force.

Goal

The goal of the project is to prepare recommendations on how to enhance and increase employment opportunities for the 50–65 age group through coordinated action by the state, employers, and NGOs, and to strengthen active labour market policy (ALMP) measures, education, health, and social services.

Participants

2025/26

Aušrinė Dapkevičiūtė

2025/26

Ieva Astraukienė