Renewal of the Municipal Council for the Elderly
Lleida City Council has started a new chapter in its relationship with the elderly, presenting an update of the regulations that will govern the Municipal Council of the Elderly. This initiative seeks to foster a space where older people can actively participate in the development of policies that directly affect them.
An action plan for social inclusion
Councilor Anna Miranda emphasized that this action is part of a wider plan to integrate the elderly in various areas of the city’s life. The aim is to create an intergenerational network that allows knowledge and experience to be shared, thus enriching municipal initiatives.
Positive view of aging
Maria Burgués, representative of the Friends of the Elderly Foundation, defended an optimistic perspective on aging, stressing the importance of the active participation of older adults in the community.
Need for modernization
Cristina Saiz, head of Participatory Action, contextualized the update of the regulation, which has become a necessity after years of inactivity. The Council, created in 1998, was integrated into a permanent board in 2019, and is now looking to revitalize it to respond to the demands of entities that work with the elderly.
Collaboration with specialized entities
A participative process has been fundamental in updating the regulations, with Table +65, which includes 31 entities dedicated to the elderly, contributing ideas and suggestions.
Structure of the new Council
The new Municipal Council for the Elderly will have a plenary session, chaired by the mayor, and several working committees. The management will be in charge of a municipal technician who will supervise the administrative procedures.
Requirements for participation
People and organizations interested in joining the Council will have to meet certain requirements that will be established in the new regulations.
Approval calendar and next steps
Pilar Planella, head of Senior Citizens, presented the schedule for the approval of the regulations. First, it will be discussed in an informative committee before being put to a vote at the October municipal meeting. After that, there will be a public exposure period for submissions, with final approval expected by the end of the year or January 2025.
Celebration of the International Day of the Elderly
Coinciding with the presentation of the new regulations, a manifesto was read in commemoration of the International Day of Older Persons, which is celebrated on October 1, highlighting the importance of valuing and respecting the contribution of older people to society.