The Netherlands

The Netherlands has recently enhanced the focus on independence and self reliance of older persons through policy and govenance.

Free car parking for disabled people in Gouda, South Holland. Donald Trung Quoc Don, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dutch ageing policies

There are a number of ageing policies that have been developed covering:

• economic participation
• social participation
• health and wellbeing
• long term care
• supportive environments.

The Dutch central government describes the aim of its ageing policies as ‘creating a society in which older people feel seen and valued, a society in which they receive good care and loving attention and in which they can keep participating.’

Dutch municipalities can help people to live at home for as long as possible. They can provide various forms of support at home under the terms of the Social Support Act. Although the social support act is mostly focused on housing, if one is unable to use public transport, based on the Social Support Act, people can apply for special forms of transport, arranged at the municipal level.

Within municipal borders, a shared taxi service is offered at a reduced rate. For longer trips, another nationally organised service is available. Other services are meant for those that cannot arrange transport independently or with the use of family or friends, for example if one is unable to use public transport due to physical or mental limitations. Most municipalities also support older people with other forms of remaining mobile.

The municipality of Amsterdam, for example, offers rental services requiring a small out-of-pocket fee, with a maximum of EUR 15 a month, for adjusted bikes for older people with limitations, or scooters or wheelchairs.