A review of the experience of three countries- Sweden, Norway, and Denmark- in providing social and cultural services to retirees

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Social Planning, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

2 PhD student in Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

10.22080/sod.2026.30458.1031

Abstract

Given the need for retirees to benefit from social and cultural services during retirement in order to maintain health and prevent common issues and crises during this period, it is necessary to be aware of the experiences of different countries in this field. This study aims to review the experiences of Sweden, Denmark, and Norway in providing social and cultural services to retirees. The research method is based on a library study, using information available on the websites of institutions that provide social and cultural services to retirees in the countries under investigation. The dominant approaches in these experiences are healthy aging, active and successful aging. So that physical and mental health, vitality, recreation, entertainment, communication, social participation, empowerment to realize capabilities, maintaining independence, dignity, self-esteem and maintaining the position of retirees in society, forming a sense of purpose and being needed by society are always emphasized. Also, in providing services for retirees, consideration is given to the diversity of retiree subgroups. Finally, the evidence suggests that policy in the field of social and cultural services for retirees requires attention to numerous components in the fields of health, sports, recreation, entertainment, social communication and education.

Keywords