To fulfil their self-declared goal of combating loneliness and strengthening social participation among the elderly, the Flemish government has developed a detailed policy framework: “The Policy Plan for the Elderly 2020-2025” (Vlaams Ouderenbeleidsplan 2020-2025) includes concrete investments in affordable care, the creation of quality living environments for older people and measures to increase dementia-sensitivity within the Flemish society. The report draws on SHARE data to illustrate the state of subjective health, feelings of loneliness and social well-being among elderly citizens, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking these data as a foundation, the Flemish government aims to respond to the needs of the 50+ population by facilitating social participation with targeted political measures.