Interest groups; Participation, Population aging; Qualitative research; The policy of active aging

Introduction: Participation is one of the principles of social policy. The participation of the elderly in civic and political life reflects democratic principles and is formed primarily within the interests of interest groups, non-political or political organizations associated with older people. Objectives: This paper focuses on analysing the method of participation of interest groups in the activities of implementing the policy of active aging in the municipalities of the Moravian-Silesian Region, and on revealing the relationships between interest groups and municipalities. Methods: The data obtained in semi-structured interviews with 32 representatives of municipalities was analysed according to grounded theory. As a partial method of analysis, the method of creating clusters was used. Results: There is an important role for interest groups associating the elderly, as well as other interest groups which are not focused on only on the elderly, in the implementation of active ageing policies. Associations are one of the main organizers of social events, educational, preventive, and sports activities aimed at the elderly. They are also an important player in the field of intergenerational cooperation. Conclusions: The implementation of the policy of active aging is an issue at all levels of social policy in the European Union. The participation of main actors in this area is important for the success of the implemented measures. Associations should be given special attention by municipalities and higher levels of government.