Positive Ageing Hub

In the Positive Ageing Hubs established in Šiauliai (Lithuania) and Ludza (Latvia), adults aged 55+ engage in structured, case-managed support activities delivered by trained specialists, volunteers, and hub coordinators. Each participant begins with an individual needs assessment conducted by a case manager, followed by a personalised development plan that determines which services they receive and when.

Activities take place daily within the hub premises and include a mix of individual and group-based services aligned with the Having–Doing–Loving–Being (HDBL) model. Service providers (psychologists, trainers, program facilitators) deliver counselling sessions, educational workshops, health and nutrition guidance, and recreational activities. Volunteers and peer supporters facilitate social interaction, group activities, and community engagement.

Participants attend sessions based on their personalised plans, while hub coordinators oversee scheduling, service delivery, and daily operations. The approach ensures that services are integrated, continuous, and adapted over time through monitoring and feedback, enabling older adults to actively participate, build connections, and improve their overall well-being.

What it sets out to do

To improve quality of life for adults 55+ by delivering integrated services that support active ageing, inclusion, and community participation through Positive Ageing Hubs.

Who it reaches

The Positive Ageing Hub operates in Šiauliai (Lithuania) and Ludza (Latvia)

Who runs it

NGO Northern Lithuania College

What seems to make it work

The effectiveness of the Positive Ageing Hub is driven by several key ingredients. A case management approach ensures each participant receives personalised, coordinated support based on real needs. Skilled multidisciplinary staff (case managers, psychologists, program facilitators) and trained volunteers deliver diverse, high-quality services. Strong cross-border partnerships between organisations in Lithuania and Latvia enable knowledge sharing and richer service design. The use of the HDBL (Having–Doing–Loving–Being) model ensures a holistic focus on well-being. Additionally, co-creation with the target group, continuous feedback, and flexible, community-based service delivery create an inclusive, responsive environment that encourages active participation and long-term impact.

How it is funded

The Positive Ageing Hub project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme

Moving it somewhere else

The Positive Ageing Hub model could be successfully replicated in other countries, as it is flexible and based on universal needs of older adults. However, several elements would need to be adapted to the local context.

The service design should reflect local cultural norms, available resources, and specific needs of the 55+ population. The HDBL model and case management approach can remain, but programs may need adjustment depending on healthcare systems, social services, and community structures. Strong local partnerships with municipalities, NGOs, and service providers are essential to ensure sustainability and relevance.

Additionally, staff capacity and training, availability of volunteers, and funding structures would need to be aligned with the local system. Effective community outreach and trust-building are especially important in new contexts. Overall, the model works best when it is locally co-created rather than directly copied.