In recent years, Rotterdam has done a lot to make the city better and more pleasant for seniors. This is evident from the results of the action agenda Gold for Seniors (2023–2026), which the city council sent to the municipal council on Wednesday, January 28. The municipality collaborated with various organizations on better housing, good care, welfare, and prevention.
Alderman Ronald Buijt (Care, Seniors and Youth Care) says the council has made broad efforts for seniors. They deserve appreciation and respect. Over the past years, we have made Rotterdam step by step more senior-friendly.
More Thuisplusflats
An important result is the arrival of 14 new Thuisplusflats. In these residential buildings, living, care, and welfare come together. New residential care complexes are also being built. In addition, housing corporations and the municipality are working together on social caretakers in 15 senior flats. They help seniors to live comfortably and safely at home for longer.
Neighborhood restaurants popular among seniors
Clear steps have also been taken in the area of meeting and health. The municipality supported 30 care and neighborhood restaurants in recent years. Here, seniors can meet each other and eat healthily together. These places help reduce loneliness and strengthen social contacts.
According to Buijt, the neighborhood restaurants have proven to be a great medicine against loneliness.
Fewer falls through prevention
The focus on fall prevention has been greatly expanded. There have been 8,446 so-called fall risk tests conducted and 3,874 people participated in the Dont Fall training. Especially in 2025, participation was high: 1,874 participants.
The percentage of people over 65 who fall decreased from 38% in 2022 to 29% in 2024. Hospital admissions due to falls also decreased. Alderman Buijt emphasizes that it is difficult to determine exactly how much of this is due to the approach, because you cannot ask people why they did not fall.
Rotterdam remains dementia-friendly
The city continues to commit to people with dementia. With the dementia action plan, 898 professionals and volunteers have now been trained in recognizing and dealing with dementia. Support is available in all areas, such as Alzheimer Cafés, caregiver cafés, and other activities.
Rotterdam wants to be a city where seniors are respected and where they can grow old healthily and vitally. A city where their own network is utilized, and where appropriate care and support are available when needed, says Buijt.
Click the link below to read more about the Gold for Seniors action agenda.
Gold for Seniors Action Agenda | rotterdam.nl. Link opens an external page