Active seniors prove to be healthier and happier

"When seniors continue to participate, we see that it has an impact on all aspects of their lives. For example, if an elderly person goes to a painting class, they feel better on multiple levels. They get moving, meet others, and can express themselves creatively," researcher Crétien van Campen told the newspaper AD. This conclusion is reflected in the many testimonials Johan Kuikka, CEO of Trionic, receives from his customers. "We regularly receive a thank-you note from a satisfied customer somewhere in the world. It often reflects that the purchase of a walking aid has also revived or further enriched their social life."

Trionic provides mobility aids that enable people with walking problems to walk anyway.

"We are not necessarily talking about just walking. We also facilitate hiking, as we have walking aids that allow you to go into the woods, go hunting, or play a round of golf."

According to Kuikka, people underestimate how important it is for seniors to be able to live independently and to be able to go outside.

"Exercise is always healthy, but it is the stimuli of new experiences, interesting conversations with others, or experiencing a whole new environment that keeps people mentally healthy. This allows seniors to remain independent and active members of society for much longer instead of becoming dependent on care."

Invest before problems start

One of the conclusions of the SCP study is that the government should invest in vital seniors. "This group is often forgotten in policy making. The focus is always on the elderly who need care, while there is a lot to be gained in the life phase before that." The researchers believe that a country with healthy vital seniors spends less on care and hospitals. Local governments should therefore reach out to seniors early, and, if necessary, activate them.

"There are already a lot of good and fun projects, but there needs to be more. Don't put seniors on a side track, but put them in the middle of society especially when making policy."

Invest in quality resources

Putting seniors in the middle of society offers added value in many ways, Kuikka also believes. "Don't forget that this is the generation that rebuilt the world after World War II. They witnessed the start of the exploration of space, experienced the Cold War, but also thanks to their efforts, we can all afford a car and have a roof over our heads today. They can still teach the younger generation a lot, help them find balance in life, or put them at ease. In this time when the world is turned upside down again, that is even more important."

Yet he warns of the known pitfall. "Making these people more relevant also means that they must have access to the right resources and materials. They must be able to rely on reliable and robust tools in their daily activities. And if something does go wrong, that they get good service and are helped quickly. The fact that the price tag may be a bit higher is less important.

The sooner they are back on their feet independently, the more important it is, not only for their own health, but also, as the SCP in the Netherlands concludes, in the interests of society."