Demographic change presents a major challenge in Northern Europe. In Finland, Sweden, and Estonia, ageing populations and shrinking labour forces require extended working lives. Older employees (55+) contribute expertise, resilience, and tacit knowledge, while age-diverse workplaces foster learning and innovation. Yet, ageism still limits opportunities and threatens workplace sustainability.
The SAFE (Solutions for Age-Friendly Employers) project brings together four partners—Tallinn University, Haapsalu College, and Golden League in Estonia; Metropolia University of Applied Sciences in Finland; and the Northern Dimension Partnership in Public Health and Social Well-being in Sweden—to improve employment opportunities for older workers.
The SAFE model was developed through country-specific assessments and ten workshops in social and healthcare organisations with supervisors and employees. Two individual supervisor interviews ensured managerial perspectives were included. Factors supporting and hindering age-friendliness were analysed and compared with literature findings. A pilot version was tested in 4-5 workplace units (approx. 40 participants) and refined based on feedback. It was presented at a cross-border seminar in October 2025, and the final version will be tested in 25 organisations.
The model includes a baseline survey, situational analysis, and tools for categorising organisations into three levels of age-friendliness: thriving, developing, or needing nurturing. Visually depicted and gamified, the model supports practical workplace development. Complementary tools include training programmes, workshops, podcasts, and policy recommendations for employers, policymakers, and stakeholders.
By embedding age-friendly values into organisational culture, the SAFE model promotes equality and sustainable employment across the life course. This presentation explores how the model addresses organisational factors such as management, inclusion, and flexibility, while reflecting on success factors and cross-sector collaboration challenges.