Older volunteers & care professionals in the spotlight of opening speech of German Seniors’ Days

“In our welfare state, politics must ensure that a dignified life is also possible for all in old age”, declared German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the opening of the 12th German Senior Citizens’ Day on 28 May 2018 in the Westfalenhallen Dortmund. In his speech Mr Steinmeier expressed his thanks to the many senior citizens who work for others. The older population formed “the backbone of the volunteers”. With a view to the challenges in the care sectors, he called for care professionals to receive the appreciation they deserve.

Since 1987, the German Senior Citizens’ Day, organised by AGE German member organization BAGSO has been one of the most important events for Seniors in Germany. For the 2018 edition, more than 15,000 visitors, including individuals, senior citizen groups and trade visitors, informed themselves in more than 200 events on topics such as health and care, education and social commitment.

Further details on the opening of the 12th German Senior Citizens’ Day can be found in BAGSO press release (in German).

Pictures of the event can be viewed here