Denmark officially launched the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between generations at a conference here Wednesday.

Denmark, which currently holds the six-month rotating presidency of the EU, takes the issue "very seriously," as around 17 percent of its population is over the age of 65 years.

"Life does not end at 60, and society acknowledges that senior citizens have much to offer," the Danish EU presidency said in a statement.

"This is what active ageing is all about: getting more out of life and staying in good health. This is important both in the labor market, at home and in society," it added.

As Europeans are living more healthily and longer, and as these older citizens possess experience and skills, which have economic value, Europe is keen to benefit from its changing demography.

The European Year on Active Ageing wants to bring attention to the concept of "active ageing," whereby Europe's senior citizens are offered ways to remain healthy, independent and active in the labor market for longer, and play an active role in society for longer.

The EU is keen for its member states, businesses, and public and private actors to "improve the access to active ageing for all age groups," the statement said.

"It must be possible to live a healthy and independent life and be an active participant in the community, including the labor market, the educational system and civil society," it added.

According to the EU Commission's European Demography Report 2010, life expectancy in Europe has been increasing at the rate of 2-3 months every year, and is the main driver of an ageing population.

Meanwhile, Europe's fertility is rising slowly to stand at 1.6 children per woman, but is still below the 2.1 rate required for a population to be self-sustaining.

The on-going conference will focus on innovative solutions in active ageing, and features presentations on the biology of active ageing, reforms to help include more senior citizens in the labor market, how European countries deal with ageing.

The conference is organized by the Danish ministries of Employment, Social Affairs and Health, with support from the European Union Commission.

VietNamNet/Xinhuanet