Ageing and Long-Term Care Excellence Award

This award recognises a public authority or social services provider that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to improving ageing and long-term care. It honours initiatives that provide high-quality, person-centred, and sustainable care solutions that enhance the wellbeing, dignity, and autonomy of older adults, particularly those requiring long-term care and support.

Examples of key areas of ageing and long-term care excellence in social services:

• Person-Centred and Dignified Care – Implementing care models that prioritise the needs, preferences, and autonomy of older adults, ensuring respect and dignity in care facilities.
• Community-Based and Home Care Innovations – Strengthening alternatives to institutional care, such as home care, day centres, and integrated community support to help older people remain independent for longer.
• Dementia and Cognitive Care Support – Developing specialised services, training, and support systems for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer and their caregivers.
• Workforce Development and Support – Investing in recruitment, training, and well-being strategies for long-term care workers, ensuring a skilled and resilient workforce.
• Promoting Active Ageing – Encouraging community engagement, intergenerational programmes, and participation in social and cultural activities to prevent loneliness and isolation.
• Sustainability and Long-Term Care Financing – Implementing cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable policies that ensure the financial viability of ageing and long-term care services.

Special consideration is given to initiatives that:

• Adopt an innovative approach to ageing and long-term care that enhances quality of life and service effectiveness.
• Empower older adults and their families, ensuring they have an active role in care decisions.
• Strengthen workforce resilience, improving the situation of the workforce and career pathways for long-term care professionals.
• Show measurable impact, demonstrating improved outcomes in health, social wellbeing, and autonomy for older people.
• Are scalable and transferable, offering best practices that can inspire similar models across Europe.