Offenbach is ageing more slowly than other cities in Germany. This is shown by the second update of the needs planning for older people in Offenbach after 2017. While the proportion of the older population is growing in many cities, Offenbach is only recording a moderate increase due to the general population growth. The proportion of over 54-year-olds rose from 27.7% (2017) to 28.8% (2023). It is worth noting that the proportion of over-65s and over-75s is declining, while the number of over-84s increased by 0.4% from 2,713 (2016) to 3,414 (2023).
Participation and challenges
Astrid Hubert, the municipal ageing planner, was in charge of updating the 2003 plan for the elderly. She was supported by the Seniors' Council, which was elected in 2023 and represents the interests of older people. "We are the link between politics, administration and senior citizens and promote the implementation of the recommendations," says Horst Thon, Chairman of the Seniors' Council. "In the end, what matters is that improvements in the quality of life of older people are evident," says Martin Wilhelm, Head of Social Affairs, thanking the Senior Citizens' Council for its constructive cooperation.
The update highlights developments since 2017, including the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, which severely affected many services for older people. "Numerous services and projects for and with older people in Offenbach simply disappeared during this time and many have not been reactivated to this day," says Hubert. The report documents the current status and creates transparency about activities and contact points.
Key topics and recommendations for action:
The main aim of the update is to strengthen social cohesion between all generations and to create structures so that Offenbach's senior citizens can live independently and autonomously for as long as possible. The report covers four subject areas and recommendations for action:
1. information, advice and networking
- Improving information systems for older people by revising the websites "Älterwerden in Offenbach" and "Seniornet 55 plus".
- Establish a low-threshold, free advice center for senior citizens that also offers home visits.
2. encounters, culture and digitalization
- Since 2022, there has been a coordination office for open senior citizen work, which strengthens offers and meeting places in the neighborhoods.
- Expansion of leisure and cultural activities and better digital offerings.
3. housing, care and mobility
- Creation of a housing guide for older people, online and as a brochure.
- Construction of a barrier-free residential complex at the former goods station with 20 age-appropriate apartments. "The aim is to create a range of support services that will enable tenants to stay in their own homes for as long as possible," explains Martin Wilhelm. This is because the promotion of barrier-free, affordable housing in the city is also seen as a fundamental task for the future by the municipal ageing planning department.
- Promoting barrier-free and affordable housing as a task for the future.
- Expansion of barrier-free mobility services and introduction of training courses for senior citizens on the use of public transportation.
4. care and health
- Networking of outpatient nursing and care services and creation of neighborhood-based services.
- Adapting to the increasing number of people in need of care and the shortage of skilled workers.
- Supporting independent living through coordinated support services.
Another focus is on securing the livelihood of older people. The number of people over the age of 54 who are employed and subject to social insurance contributions has risen from 46% (2015) to 54% (2023). At the same time, the number of people receiving unemployment benefits, citizens' benefits or basic old-age security is also increasing. Many senior citizens avoid going to the social welfare office out of shame or concern for their relatives. "Basic income support is not a handout, but a right," emphasizes Martin Wilhelm, who is campaigning for more information.
Participation and feasibility
The recommendations were developed with broad participation from politics, administration, society and the Seniors' Council. The aim is to promote social cohesion and the independence of older people. The city's financial situation and economic viability were also taken into account - many measures are cost-neutral and can be implemented in the short term, provided the city's funds allow. "The report shows that Offenbach is well positioned to actively shape demographic change and sustainably improve the quality of life of older people," says Wilhelm.
Social security for older people