ROTTERDAM, 30 January 2026 – Recent results show our city is becoming significantly more accessible and supportive for older residents through the Gold for Old (Goud voor Oud) action agenda. Between 2023 and 2026, the local government and its partners have invested in housing, care, and social connections to ensure you can grow old comfortably in your own neighbourhood.
Our city has taken major steps to improve the quality of life for our seniors, according to the latest report sent to the council. By focusing on prevention and wellbeing, Rotterdam is working to create an environment where you feel respected and valued as you age.
“We have committed ourselves across the entire council for the elderly, because they deserve appreciation and respect," says Councillor for Care, Older People and Youth Care Ronald Buijt. He notes that the city is becoming more senior-friendly step by step through these targeted efforts.
Integrated housing and care solutions
A standout achievement in our city is the creation of 14 new home-plus flats (Thuisplusflats), which combine residential living with on-site care and social activities. These complexes are designed to help you stay independent for longer while having support close at hand whenever it is needed.
In addition to new buildings, housing corporations are working with the city to deploy social caretakers (sociale huismeesters) in 15 existing senior complexes. These professionals provide a vital link, helping residents feel safe and ensuring that the living environment remains pleasant and well-maintained.
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Social dining in neighbourhood restaurants
Social connection is another priority, with 30 supported neighbourhood restaurants (wijkrestaurants) now operating across our districts. These venues provide a welcoming space for you to meet others and enjoy healthy meals together, which has proven to be an effective way to combat social isolation.
Councillor Buijt highlights that these restaurants have become a “great medicine against loneliness” for thousands of older Rotterdammers. By strengthening local social networks, the programme ensures that help is often available within your own circle of friends and neighbours.
Reducing fall risks for older residents
Health outcomes are also improving, particularly regarding fall prevention (valpreventie). More than 8,400 risk tests have been conducted, and nearly 4,000 residents have participated in “Don't Fall” training programmes. A significant portion of these participants joined the sessions in 2025 alone.
The data shows a positive trend: the number of seniors reporting a fall dropped from 38 per cent in 2022 to 29 per cent in 2024. This decrease has also led to fewer fall-related hospital admissions for residents aged 65 and over, suggesting that the preventative exercises are having a real impact on our safety.
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Support for a dementia friendly city
To ensure we remain a dementia-friendly city, nearly 100 professionals and volunteers have been trained to recognise and support those living with the condition. This specialized assistance is available in every district of Rotterdam to help families navigate the challenges of cognitive decline.
Support is accessible through various local initiatives, including Alzheimer Cafés and caregiver cafés (mantelzorgcafés). These hubs provide a space for sharing experiences and receiving expert advice, ensuring that neither the individual nor their family has to face the journey alone.
Addressing the challenge of double ageing
While these results are positive, our city continues to prepare for the challenge of double ageing (dubbele vergrijzing), where the number of older people increases alongside their average age. This trend, combined with rising care costs and national policy changes, requires lasting attention from the local government.
As we move forward, the city encourages you to take control of your own future and prepare for the transitions that come with getting older. By working together with partners and residents, Rotterdam aims to remain a place where you can age with vitality and receive the right support at the right time.
