On October 2, 2026, the Madrid City Council organized a guided visit to the Museum of History of Madrid as part of its celebrations for the International Day of Older Persons. This initiative aims to enhance cultural access for participants, fostering cognitive stimulation, community participation, and socialization.
Fifty users from municipal senior centers—Villa de Vallecas, Santa Eugenia, and Benito Martín Lozano—along with 13 volunteers from the Spanish Confederation of Senior Education (CEATE), participated in the event. CEATE volunteers also visit senior centers and day centers to bring culture to individuals with mobility difficulties through educational sessions.
The City Council has allocated €458 million this year to services that promote active and healthy aging for older residents. José Fernández, the delegate for Social Policies, Family and Equality, emphasized the importance of continuous learning and social connection for seniors during the guided visit.
“We want older persons to keep learning, discover new things, share experiences, and stay connected with each other and the city,” Fernández stated.
The International Day of Older Persons is observed every October 1, recognizing their contributions to society and promoting active, participatory, and healthy aging.
CEATE has 940 older volunteers trained to share cultural heritage through guided tours across Spain. During the recent visit, participants rediscovered Madrid's heritage through various exhibits, including a historical model of the city.
In recent years, the City Council and CEATE have collaborated on various cultural visits to museums and monuments, such as the Reina Sofía Museum and the Royal Basilica of San Francisco el Grande. Additionally, CEATE volunteers conduct outreach sessions for those with mobility challenges, ensuring they can also engage with cultural content.
The City Council prioritizes the well-being of older residents, aiming to help them remain in their homes as long as possible while ensuring they have access to resources and activities that promote learning and social engagement. The 93 municipal senior centers play a crucial role in fostering social integration and participation through various sociocultural and recreational activities.
Furthermore, the 65 municipal day centers provide socio-healthcare services for individuals over 60 experiencing physical or cognitive decline. The City Council also operates an intergenerational center, Ouka Leele, where older adults and youth share experiences, alongside initiatives promoting physical activity and programs aimed at preventing unwanted loneliness.
