Croatian Retirees Association Marks 80 Years, Rolls Out Active‑Aging Projects

The Matica umirovljenika Hrvatske celebrated its 80th anniversary, with president Višnja Fortuna outlining a series of new initiatives aimed at active ageing. The association has secured European funding for six major projects that include Nordic walking, workshops, psychological and legal counselling, and other activities designed to improve the quality of life for retirees.

Fortuna highlighted partnership with the National Foundation for Civil Society, which provides lottery‑derived grants to support ongoing programmes. The association also joined a national ‘knowledge centre’ for civil‑society groups, expanding its capacity to deliver services across all Croatian counties. Around half a million pensioners, many receiving less than €500 a month, are expected to benefit from these efforts.

The association participates in the government’s National Council for Pensioners and the Elderly, engaging directly with ministries to advocate for the needs of older citizens.