2012 is designated by the European Commission as the ‘European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations’.The European Union is experiencing a process of significant demographic change as people live longer and healthier lives. Life expectancy has risen by eight years, and demographic projections forecast a further five-year increase over the next forty years. By the year 2050, it is estimated that 31.3% of the EU population will be 65 or over and those aged 85 or over will rise from 14 million to 19 million by 2020 and 40 million by 2050.Society faces a number of challenges as a result, and the implications for local, regional and national authorities are serious – there may be an increase in pressure on public budgets and pension systems, as well as on social care and provision for older people. Furthermore, old age is often associated with illness and dependence, and older people can feel excluded from employment as well as from family and society.Alarmingly, demographic projections by Eurostat indicate a decline of about 6.8% in the number of people of working age by 2030, therefore, two people of working age will be needed to support one retired person. However, these challenges neglect the significant and potential contribution that older people can make to society. Active ageing includes creating more opportunities for older people to continue working and to contribute to society through volunteering. The European Commission’s Lifelong Learning Programme works towards these goals by engaging older people in education and training to prevent the loss of skills.Furthermore, the Strategic Implementation Plan launched by the European Commission sets out actions to be implemented to address the challenge of innovation for active and healthy ageing. The Plan ensures that older people receive adequate health care and are able to live independent, mobile and active lives. Health care models should meet the needs of older people whilst being conducive to their independence. Thus, innovation in care such as through the use of Information and Communication Technologies is essential to enhance the quality of life for older people.