BFH – Berner Fachhochschule
03. Juni 2025 | Publikation
Social change and economic perspectives of age(ing)
Demographic change is fundamentally altering our society, while also opening up new economic opportunities. At AGEperspectives, we view ageing as a modelling task for businesses, politicians and society. Through initiatives such as the Age Innovation Prize, we promote innovative approaches, strengthen intergenerational perspectives, and connect individuals and organisations that recognise and develop the economic potential of ageing.
International networking and knowledge exchange on age(ing)
Building on our previous work, we are further developing its international dimensions. At the heart of this is the cross-border exchange of knowledge on ageing-related challenges, focusing on innovative approaches, best practice and structural developments worldwide. The network provides spaces for dialogue, comparison and cooperation between researchers, practitioners and policymakers who wish to reconsider and reshape age(ing) in an international context.
Shaping the political framework for a successful ageing society
We compile expertise on the most pressing issues related to ageing and provide politicians, administrators, and institutions with targeted knowledge in the form of practical tools, collections of best practices, topic-specific overviews, and customised solutions. In this way, we support well-informed decision-making at all levels of government. Our goal is to create political framework conditions that fulfil demographic developments and enable socially and economically sustainable structures.
Social perception and public discourse on age(ing)
AGEperspectives raises awareness of ageing in society by sharing knowledge. Research findings and best practices are made accessible via open-access publications, public events, and specialised formats. The aim is to communicate sound knowledge effectively to experts, decision-makers and the interested public, in order to promote a differentiated and informed society-wide dialogue on age(ing).
The Age Innovation Prize of the Institute for Ageing Research IAF is entering its third round after two successful editions in 2023 and 2024.
Understanding and acting together: Creative ways to deal with challenging behaviour in people with dementia
Good practice list – Inspiring examples of technologies for people in old age
AGE-INT was the largest national research project to examine the challenges and opportunities of demographic change in Switzerland in a practical way (2021–2024). A transdisciplinary team working across the country’s three main language regions identified and provided access to knowledge and best practices from national and international sources.
Thematic focus areas included technologies for older people, dementia prevention and care, employment for the retired and social inclusion.
AGE-NT was a national innovation network (2017–2020) that developed sustainable solutions to structural challenges related to ageing. Measures to prepare for old age were developed in collaboration with the business community, policymakers and scientists. A participatory approach ensured the involvement of those affected, while knowledge transfer and research were promoted through programmes, education, and expert conferences.
The main topics included Active Assisted Living, dementia, working after the age of 45 and ageing and living.
As an expert organisation, we are committed to practical and participatory work on the demographic challenges facing ageing societies, both now and in the future.
As the leading cooperation network in Switzerland on ageing, we offer a wide range of findings from applied research and development that are highly relevant to social and technical innovations.
Read moreOur expertise is relevant to stakeholders in the following areas: The economy, politics and the public sector. Our network is constantly expanding and is active internationally.
Given the growing number of people aged 65+, not to mention the significant proportion of individuals in their 80s and 90s, we develop solutions to support ongoing drastic social change processes. We raise awareness of risks (e.g. the risk of exclusion) and create opportunities (e.g. the economic potential that remains unused) to enable older people to age successfully. We promote an intergenerationally inclusive society that enables social participation, offering solutions for a life of self-determination, particularly in the third and fourth ages.
AGE Perspectives is an inter- and transdisciplinary network that brings together committed experts from the fields of ageing research and practice. Together, we develop practical, scientifically sound solutions for and with older people, their relatives, and relevant specialist groups. We collaborate in a personal, scientific and uncomplicated way to generate the best possible customised results for ageing with diversity and self-determination.
