IKIGAI55+ Bilbao Training on Living Lab Methodology
IKIGAI55+ is a European initiative co-funded under Erasmus+ that addresses one of today’s most pressing demographic challenges: the rapid ageing of European societies. By 2020, one out of every five European citizens was already over 65, with life expectancy reaching 80.9 years but healthy life expectancy lagging behind at only 63.7 years (Eurostat). In addition, digital literacy among the 55+ population remains limited, with only 35% of those aged 55–74 possessing basic digital skills (DESI, 2020).
The project’s mission is to empower older adults by promoting physical activity, reducing social isolation, and overcoming the digital divide. To achieve this, IKIGAI55+ develops training programs for sports trainers and facilitators, introduces smart wearables and motivational tools into physical activity interventions, and adopts a Living Lab approach to ensure user-centered innovation.
In order to achieve this approach, ESKILRA and TREBAG organized the Train the Trainers event in Bilbao last summert, with practical knowledge of Living Lab methodology. The event ensured that the pilots—now being rolled out in seven countries (Spain, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Belgium, Cyprus, and Portugal) are designed and implemented with stronger user involvement, co-creation practices, and real-life testing at their core. This early capacity building has enhanced the consistency and quality of pilots, while giving facilitators the tools to actively engage older adults as co-creators.
The three-day programme combined theory and practice around Living Lab methodology. Participants explored the principles of open innovation, governance and sustainability of Living Labs, and the importance of iterative co-creation. Case studies and best practices—including experiences from the Gernika Silver Living Lab and the Ozean Living Lab—illustrated how collaborative approaches are already shaping healthier and more inclusive communities. Alongside lectures and discussions, group work, role-playing and visits to local facilities in Bilbao allowed participants to experience first-hand how Living Lab dynamics unfold in authentic environments where older adults live, exercise and socialize.
This event also reinforced the central role of Living Labs within IKIGAI55+. The project seeks to empower adults over 55 by integrating physical activity programmes with smart wearables and motivational strategies, while addressing the digital divide that still affects a large part of this population. By ensuring that trainers and facilitators are equipped not only with technological tools but also with the skills to engage seniors as co-creators, the project aims to deliver sustainable, user-centered solutions that strengthen both wellbeing and digital inclusion.
With ESKILARA at the forefront, drawing on its experience in the Ozean Living Lab, IKIGAI55+ demonstrates how Living Labs can become drivers of innovation in the Silver Economy.
