In the GeroCenter, service providers, private businesses and researchers create a forum for fruitful interaction in the broad field of ageing issues. At this interface, research results are translated into social innovations and potential service products. The work is based on collaboration, equal participation, client-centeredness, sustainable development and ethical principals.

The average time-lag in transferring scientific findings into practice is approximately ten years. This delay does not promote the appropriate targeting of social and health resources. Currently, measures directed at older people in the field of health care focus e.g. on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Follow-up of treatment, evaluation of functional ability, interventions promoting functional ability and preventive methods have received insufficient attention. It is time to put into practice strategies which maintain and promote the health and functional ability of older people.