Senior Citizens Act (LSen) - Purpose and Subject Matter (SENG)

1. In addition to the federal and cantonal legislation and as a subsidiary to the duties of family members, this law aims to ensure that senior citizens are integrated into society, that their needs and competencies are recognized, and that their autonomy is preserved.

2. It determines the responsibilities of the authorities, the priority areas for state intervention, and the modalities of this intervention, from which, in addition to senior citizens, other individuals may also benefit preventively.

1. Seniors are defined as persons who have reached the statutory retirement age.

1. The State ensures that the regulations issued generally for the community are fair to seniors.

2. The State Council specifies the areas for State intervention in a comprehensive plan and determines the priority measures in a multi-year action plan.

1. Within five years after the enactment of this law, the municipalities shall establish in a concept and according to the needs of their residents the measures they intend to take in addition to those of the State to contribute to the achievement of the objectives of this law.

2. They shall update their concept as needed based on the needs of the population and shall submit it to the Directorate responsible for health.

3. The municipalities may collaborate to fulfill this task.

4. The State supports the municipalities in the implementation of their policies.

1. The State takes measures with the aim to

a) promote the continued employment of workers who are nearing retirement and the appreciation of their skills, as well as support their transition into retirement;

b) support seniors in the promotion and maintenance of their (physical, mental, and social) health;

c) encourage active participation and engagement of seniors in society, as well as intergenerational and intercultural exchange;

d) promote the development of housing options that meet the needs of seniors and facilitate access for seniors with limited mobility to private and public infrastructure;

e) ensure seniors' access to coordinated and high-quality healthcare and social support services;

f) support caregiving relatives and volunteers in the care of frail seniors.

1. The State informs the public and raises awareness about the needs of senior citizens and their role in society.

1. Within the framework of the multi-year action plan, the state may grant financial assistance to support projects with the following objectives

a) Promoting contact and exchange across generations and encouraging respectful and tolerant behavior between generations;

b) Promoting and maintaining the health literacy (physical, mental, and social health) of senior citizens;

c) Promoting the safety of senior citizens.

2. It may commission private entities to expand the range of services in these areas, particularly in

a) Training for senior citizens;

b) Housing and transportation that meet the needs of senior citizens;

c) Courses and advisory and support services for caregivers and volunteers caring for frail senior citizens.

1. The Federal Council determines the enactment of this law.

2. This law is subject to the legislative referendum. It is not subject to the fiscal referendum.