Book excerpt: The Madrid International Plan of Action (MIPAA), adopted in 2002, constitutes a key global policy document concerned with the implications of population ageing and with the well-being and active participation of older persons at all levels. The present Guide offers national policy makers practical suggestions for the implementation of MIPAA. The Madrid Plan covers a variety of topics and incorporates 239 separate recommendations; it addresses the most crucial areas requiring particular policy attention. The Guide seeks to provide useful information for all countries regardless of the level of socio-economic development.