This recognition marks the culmination of a journey that began in 2018 with the public presentation of the study “Ílhavo – Age-Friendly City” in 2019. Since then, the Municipality has been consolidating policies and projects aimed at healthier, more active, and participatory aging, such as the recent programs Solidão Zero (Zero Loneliness) and Ílhavo Cuida (Ílhavo Cares).
The application to the Global Network was submitted to the Directorate-General of Health (DGS), which, after a favorable opinion, forwarded it to the World Health Organization. This integration will enhance the international visibility of the work carried out by the Municipality of Ílhavo with its senior community, facilitate the sharing of best practices with other cities, and foster new opportunities for cooperation and funding.
Established in 2010 by the WHO, the Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities promotes international cooperation and knowledge sharing among territories committed to adapting their spaces, services, and policies to the needs of an increasingly aging population. Its methodology is based on eight domains of intervention, including outdoor spaces and buildings, transport, housing, social participation, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, communication and information, and community support and health services.
More than just recognition, this membership represents a commitment to the future. The ambition of the Municipality of Ílhavo is to establish itself as a European benchmark in promoting longevity and healthy aging, striving to create conditions for all individuals to age with quality of life, autonomy, and active participation in society.
