The aim of the Rollator March is to make older people more visible and heard in society and to strengthen their opportunities to influence decisions that affect their lives. Those taking part in the march express their concerns about the adequacy, accessibility and quality of services for older people at a time when the population is ageing rapidly.
– We are all ageing. There is no way to prevent it. Ensuring a good and safe old age concerns every one of us, says Tarja Jokinen, Chair of the Older People’s Council of the City of Tampere.
The Older People’s Council invites everyone who wishes to stand up for the dignity of older people to join the Rollator March. Individuals, associations, communities and businesses, as well as the city’s other advisory councils and participation groups, are all warmly welcome.
– The Rollator March is a cheerful and colourful event, even though our concerns about the appreciation of older people and the state of services for older people are serious. This year, the Older People’s Council’s slogan is "Ageing rules". Taking a positive approach, Jokinen says.
Mayor Ilmari Nurminen will take part in the Rollator March and deliver a greeting from the city to the marchers. The march will also be attended by deputy mayors and representatives of the Tampere for All development programme.
– A good and dignified old age is a shared responsibility for the whole city. Our task is to ensure that services support the everyday lives of Tampere residents at every stage of life, says Mayor Ilmari Nurminen.
1.30–2.00 pm The march assembles on Koskikatu.
2.00–2.30 pm The Rollator March sets off from Koskikatu and proceeds via Hämeensilta Bridge and Keskustori Square to Laikunlava.
The route is approximately 500 metres long. Along the way there are rest areas, several accessible toilets, and volunteers assisting participants.
The marchers will arrive at Laikunpuisto at around 2.30 pm, where they will be welcomed by the Rientola Settlement Brass Band.
Programme at Laikunpuisto:
The first Rollator March was held in Tampere in May 2025 and attracted around 2,000 participants.
This year, the Rollator March has grown into a nationwide event promoting the human rights of older people and is being held in approximately 30 locations across Finland.
The Rollator March is a non‑partisan event.
