Social Shift: Preparing pre-retirees and young retirees for a new social role by strengthening social competences and focusing on a new social role

In the face of rapid demographic changes in Europe and an aging population, supporting people entering retirement is becoming an increasingly significant challenge. The traditional model of engagement, centered on paid employment, no longer fully meets the needs of this group. Many people, after ending their careers, experience a loss of purpose, a decline in social engagement, and the risk of social exclusion.

Project Social Shift – Preparing pre-retirees and young retirees for a new social role by strengthening social competences and focusing on a new social role addresses these challenges by proposing a shift in perspective—from a focus on professional careers to active participation in social life. At the heart of the project is the use of older adults’ experience, knowledge, and potential to build stronger, more integrated communities.

Project objectives

• To support pre-retirees and young retirees in finding a new social role through the development of social competencies and the promotion of active civic engagement.
• Equipping educators and trainers with tools to support older adults in shifting their mindset—from a career-focused approach to one oriented toward acting for the common good.
• Creating innovative educational materials and methodologies that support a conscious and fulfilling transition from professional life to social engagement.

Target groups

• People approaching retirement age and young retirees (60+), facing a change in their life roles.
• Educators, trainers, and professionals working with adults who support lifelong learning.
• Non-governmental organizations, public institutions, and local communities involved in social activities and the empowerment of seniors.
• Labor market institutions and entities involved in career counseling and skills development.

Results

• The Social Shift Methodology – a comprehensive approach to shifting one’s focus from a professional career to social engagement.
• A self-directed learning program for older adults, enabling them to discover their own potential and apply it to activities that benefit others.
• A toolkit for educators and trainers supporting the development of social and civic competencies.
• A compendium of good practices, presenting inspiring examples of social engagement by older adults in various countries.
• Pilot activities testing the developed solutions in an international setting.

Added value

The project introduces an innovative approach to active aging, focusing not on extending professional activity but on strengthening the social role of older adults. It promotes the idea that life and professional experience can become a valuable resource for the community.

Social Shift helps combat social exclusion, strengthens a sense of purpose and belonging, and builds bridges between generations. As a result, it supports the creation of more cohesive, engaged, and resilient communities in Europe.

Planned activities

• Developing a methodology and educational tools to support a shift in perspective regarding one’s role in life after the end of a professional career.
• Creating a training program and self-study materials for older adults.
• Implementing pilot activities and testing the developed solutions in partner countries.
• Collecting and compiling best practices regarding the active social engagement of seniors.
• Conducting outreach activities, information campaigns, and collaboration with stakeholders at the local and European levels.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.