Active ageing refers to the situation where older and ageing persons continue to have an opportunity to participate in the formal labour market, as well as engage in other unpaid productive activities while living healthy, independent and secure lives as they age. Active ageing policies seek to increase the number of older workers in the labour market, while enabling persons above statutory retirement age to remain in or re-enter employment. In Malta, the time is opportune to prioritise ageing policies, especially given the expectation of unprecedented changes in the demographic fabric. By the year 2025 the number of persons aged 65 years and over is projected to increase by 72 per cent compared to 2010 figures, and by 2060, children and youth under 20 years of age will decrease by 35 per cent.

The National Strategic Policy for Active Ageing: Malta 2014-2020 constitutes a turning point for local ageing policy. It is premised upon the three major themes: active participation in the labour market, participation in society, and independent living. Policy recommendations are offered in support of strengthening the levels of older and ageing workers, and improving social inclusion and independent living in later life. These recommendations include continuous vocational training for older adults; improving healthy working conditions, age management techniques and employment services; ensuring a safe, adequate and sustainable income for all older persons; providing financial and social resources for vulnerable older persons; strengthening opportunities for learning, digital literacy, active citizenship and intergenerational solidarity in later life; and improving services in health prevention and promotion.