Longevity in Society 5.0: Integrated Care and Social Innovation

On June 15, 2026, the city of Bologna will host a significant academic and professional gathering focused on the future of aging in the digital age. Titled “Longevity in Society 5.0 – Building Bridges Between Services, Communities, and People,” the event is organised by Uneba Emilia Romagna, Fondazione Santa Clelia Barbieri, and the University of Bologna’s Departments of Medical and Legal Sciences.

Did You Know? The study day will feature a specific focus on the evolution of care models, including a presentation by Fabio Cavicchi, Director of Fondazione Santa Clelia Barbieri, on the transition from traditional care to “open CRA” (Residential Care Facilities) and proximity-based models.

The Evolution of Care in the Digital Era

The conference is structured into three distinct sessions, each addressing a critical pillar of modern geriatric care. The discussions will span from the transformation of the elderly from a perceived group of “fragility” to a vital demographic “resource,” to the complex intersection of technology, ethics, and human rights.

The final session emphasizes the shift from theoretical frameworks to practical implementation. By presenting concrete experiences of integrated care and community participation, the organizers aim to map out how society can better support its aging population through innovative social structures.

Expert Insight: The integration of medical and legal expertise suggests that the future of longevity is not merely a clinical challenge but a structural one. By prioritizing “proximity-based” care, these institutions are signaling a move away from institutional isolation toward a model where the elderly remain active, visible participants in their communities.

Looking Ahead: Implications for Social Models

As the “Society 5.0” framework gains traction, it is likely that the models presented in Bologna will serve as a blueprint for other organizations. If these integrated approaches to care and social innovation prove successful, they could influence how non-profit sectors address the challenges of aging across broader regions.

Fabio Cavicchi Bologna

Future developments may see a wider adoption of “open” facility models, where the barrier between residential care and the surrounding community is further dismantled. This transition is expected to rely heavily on the ongoing dialogue between academic research and field-based non-profit operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is organising the “Longevity in Society 5.0” event?

The event is organised by Uneba Emilia Romagna, Fondazione Santa Clelia Barbieri, and the Departments of Medical and Legal Sciences of the University of Bologna.

The Ultimate Longevity Conference 2024

What are the primary themes of the conference?

The three sessions focus on: longevity and empowerment, the intersection of technology, ethics, and rights, and the practical implementation of integrated care models and community participation.

Where can I find more information or register for the event?

You can access the official program or complete your registration online.

How do you believe digital innovation will most significantly change the way we approach care for the elderly in your own community?