The City of Bochum has developed the comprehensive, participatory “Action Plan for Life in Old Age 2025-2030: Measures for an Age-Friendly City of Bochum” to improve the quality of life for older people in Bochum. Aligned with the WHO framework, The Action Plan presents a comprehensive needs analysis and identifies existing challenges in five thematic focus areas: inclusive urban society, demographic change, civic engagement and participation, healthy and active ageing, and independent and self-determined living. Within these thematic focus areas, the plan defines clear goals for all relevant areas of life.

Bochum views aging as a valuable and dynamic phase of life that brings experience, insight, and potential to society. Therefore, the city gives special attention to the inclusion of all groups within the city society, such as residents with migration backgrounds, members of the LGBTQ+ community, single older women, and those experiencing poverty or isolation. The six neighborhood-based centers provide older residents with access to services, volunteer opportunities, and cultural activities to meet the specific needs of the population and reduce barriers to access to services. Several local initiatives foster intergenerational and intercultural exchange.

In healthcare, low-threshold models such as a “health kiosk” and a digital health map improve access to both medical and preventive services. Participatory care planning structures ensure that care services are developed in line with the lived experience of older adults, while heat prevention and climate adaptation measures address environmental risks.

Bochum is systematically improving the accessibility of public transport, housing stock, and recreational infrastructure. An older adult portal currently under development aims to simplify information access and enhance digital inclusion, supported by free training and user-centered services.

All initiatives are jointly developed and implemented with municipal departments, non-profit partners, and citizens. Central to Bochum’s strategy is a continuous process of feedback and iterative improvement.