Active Aging, Social Policy, and Generativity

Abstract

Abstract The objective of this chapter is to review the extent to which recent social policies based on the active aging framework have also promoted generativity-related ways of aging, particularly in Europe and the United States, the regions in which active aging policies have had the most impact. The chapter describes the rise and development of the active aging framework, and mentions the main institutional landmarks that underpin its popularity as a social policy tool. Subsequently, it discusses policies aimed at promoting the continuation of older people in the labor market and the civic participation of older people, areas that are potentially related to generativity in later life. Finally, the limitations and future challenges of active aging policies are considered from the perspective of promoting generativity in later life.