Silver Economy in Catalonia

The silver economy encompasses economic activities, products and services designed to meet the growing needs and opportunities arising from population aging and increased longevity. It extends beyond healthcare and elderly care to include technology, housing, mobility, leisure, financial services and well-being.

In Catalonia, people aged over 55 already account for more than one-third of the population, creating new opportunities for businesses developing solutions that improve people’s health, independence and quality of life.

Reflecting this, ACCIÓ-Catalonia Trade & Investment’s 2026 report states that Catalonia’s silver economy comprises 1,030 companies employing 72,807 people and generating €13.3 billion in revenue, equivalent to approximately 4% of Catalonia’s GDP. Over the last four years, the number of companies has increased by 46.5%, revenue by 36.4% and employment by 42.3%.

A diverse population with different needs

The silver economy is not defined by age alone. Older people have different lifestyles, expectations and degrees of independence, creating demand for a broad range of products and services.

The sector distinguishes between three main population profiles:

• Active living: People typically aged between 55 and 66, with needs related to consumption, leisure, well-being and physical activity.
• Independent living: People typically aged between 67 and 79, seeking solutions that help maintain their independence, health and quality of life.
• Assisted living: People typically aged 80 and over, with greater needs for care, personal assistance and ongoing support.

These profiles reflect the diversity of the silver economy, which increasingly encompasses not only care services but also products and experiences for an active, independent and longer life.

Silver economy, an active ecosystem full of opportunities

Catalonia’s silver economy covers four main business segments: 

1. Active aging and well-being cover tourism, leisure, financial services and digital solutions for active lifestyles. Company numbers have grown by 63% since 2022.
2. Health is the largest segment by revenue, with 293 companies generating almost €6 billion (44% of the total) and employing nearly 15,000 people.
3. Independence and quality of life accounts for around 14% of companies and revenue, offering solutions such as mobility aids, telecare, remote monitoring and home automation.
4. Care services account for 36% of companies and 62% of employment, spanning residential and day care, home care and personalized services.

The sector also has a well-established business base. Nearly 89% of companies have been operating for at least 10 years, 25.4% are regular exporters, and 15.2% are subsidiaries of foreign companies.