Madrid authorities have announced the launch of a new initiative aimed at people over the age of 60. Carnet Senior is the name of the latest project designed to change the way elderly residents in the region are supported. The idea is that this card will provide access to a wide range of services, from educational courses to programs combating loneliness.
There are more than one and a half million people in the region who are already over 60. For them, the Carnet Senior will serve as a gateway to new opportunities. Inspired by the success of youth cards, the developers decided to introduce a similar system for the older generation. Now seniors will be able to enjoy discounts, attend cultural and sporting events, and receive advice on a wide variety of issues.
The project is part of a large-scale plan to promote active aging and prevent dependency, with an annual budget of 400 million euros. This plan includes more than a hundred measures aimed at increasing independence and quality of life for older adults. Special attention is given to those who have already turned 65—their share in the region’s population exceeds 18%.
The Carnet Senior will be available both in electronic and traditional paper formats. This approach makes it accessible for those comfortable with smartphones as well as those who prefer familiar solutions. Cardholders will be able to browse an event calendar, choose activities of interest, access free consultations, and even participate in volunteer initiatives.
To obtain the card, one simply needs to be a registered resident of Madrid and aged 60 or older. With the Carnet Senior, it will be possible to attend courses on healthy lifestyles and digital literacy, as well as receive assistance on inheritance and consumer rights. There are also plans to expand intergenerational volunteer programs and launch projects involving pets to help reduce loneliness among seniors.
In the next two years, a new center will open in the San Blas-Canillejas district to coordinate the entire network of elderly support and combat loneliness. This will help increase the availability of services and bring them closer to those in need. The center will replace the current institution in Tetuán and become a key component in the system of personalized assistance.
Regional authorities emphasize that the Carnet Senior is not just a card with bonuses. The main goal is to give seniors more opportunities to participate in society, provide them with safety, and offer new knowledge. To achieve this, special agents will be appointed in municipalities to coordinate local projects and help adapt them to the specific needs of each district.
There are also plans to introduce the ‘Elder-Friendly Organization’ certificate, which companies and institutions that show care for the older generation can receive. In addition, annual awards will be given for the best social and commercial initiatives related to active aging.
All these measures are intended to make Carnet Senior an important tool that will help Madrid residents not only live longer but also maintain a high quality of life, remaining active and engaged in their community.
