Pro Senectute Launches the Prix Merci at the National Congress on Ageing
23.01.2026 | from Pro Senectute
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Image rights: Pro Senectute Schweiz
Photographer: Peter Fuchs
23.01.2026, At the 2nd National Congress on Ageing by Pro Senectute in Biel, nearly 400 professionals discussed the opportunities of demography and the importance of volunteer work. Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider emphasized the great potential of older people for society. With the launch of the Prix Merci, Pro Senectute shows appreciation for its over 17,000 volunteers.
Around 400 professionals from across Switzerland gathered on January 22, 2026, at the 2nd National Congress on Ageing by Pro Senectute in Biel. Under the theme 'Demography as an Opportunity - Good Practice and Innovations', the congress focused on the social, economic, and political perspectives of ageing.
Age as a Future Opportunity
In the speeches, panel discussions, and five elective events, the positive aspects of an aging society were highlighted. A particular highlight was the keynote by Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider. For her, the older generation is a valuable resource for society: 'Never before have there been so many older people from whose rich life and professional experiences younger generations can benefit—especially in challenging times like these.'
Volunteer Work is Invaluable
As part of a future-oriented approach to ageing, volunteer work is of particular importance. On the occasion of the 'International Year of Volunteers 2026' by the United Nations, Pro Senectute launched the Prix Merci at the ageing congress. The award is intended to express Pro Senectute's appreciation for their over 17,000 volunteers. The Prix Merci will be awarded for the first time at the end of 2026 to a person engaged in voluntary or honorary work with Pro Senectute. At the same time, with this initiative, Pro Senectute demonstrates the diverse opportunities for voluntary engagement in favour of older people in Switzerland. 'Voluntary work is not free, it is priceless', says Eveline Widmer-Schlumpf, President of the Pro Senectute Switzerland Foundation Board, about the importance of volunteer work for the organisation.
Press Contact:
Pro Senectute Switzerland
Peter Burri Follath
Head of Communication
Phone 044 283 89 43
medien@prosenectute.ch
Editor's note: Image rights belong to the respective publisher. Image rights: Pro Senectute Schweiz / Photographer: Peter Fuchs
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Pro Senectute
Pro Senectute proactively shapes social developments to ensure that intergenerational solidarity continues to be preserved in the future.
We are the largest and most significant service organisation for older people and their relatives in Switzerland. With 24 cantonal and intercantonal Pro Senectute organisations, we are present throughout Switzerland.
As the first point of contact for ageing issues, we cover the important needs of older people and their relatives.
We advocate for people in Switzerland to live as participative and valued members of our society into the highest age.
Together with the Pro Senectute organisations, many volunteers, donors, and partners, we form a strong community. Together, we offer services that enrich the everyday lives of older people and support relatives and caregivers, which makes us stronger.
Note: The "About Us" text is taken from public sources or from the company profile on HELP.ch.
Source: Pro Senectute, Press release
Original article published on: Pro Senectute lanciert den Prix Merci am Nationalen Alterskongress