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In previous discussions on “How to Live in Denmark,” I’ve touched on the concept of “The Danish Year”—a series of annual events that, while not formal holidays, are woven into the fabric of Danish life. This year, I’m embarking on a monthly podcast series that explores these traditions within the broader narrative of Denmark’s journey through time.
Connecting the present with the past is a challenging endeavor. Across the globe, statues are erected to immortalize revered figures, but ask a local about these icons, and you might uncover a common truth: many no longer know who they’re meant to represent. These once-great individuals, entrusted to history, often find themselves the subjects of more avian than human attention.
Indeed, the past is often just that—past. And as time marches on, memories can fade.
Take, for instance, a cherished tradition in Denmark—lighting a candle in the window on the night of May 4. This gesture honors the surrender of Germany and the liberation from Nazi occupation in 1945. During the war, Denmark was shrouded in darkness, a blackout implemented by the Nazis to confound Allied forces. In the wake of defeat, a candle’s flickering flame emerged as a symbol of defiance and hope.
A Forgotten Commemoration
I personally strive to uphold this tradition every May 4, yet I often find myself forgetting. Truth be told, these days, the sight of candles glowing in windows has become increasingly rare.
With a mere 85 years or older required to recall the war firsthand, many Danes now regard Germany as one of their closest allies. Furthermore, as the older generation passes away, the memories—along with the customs—often disappear, particularly when many elderly individuals find themselves living apart from families who might continue these traditions.
In Denmark, older people frequently live alone, receiving visits from municipal workers just once or twice a week for assistance with chores or medications. When they can no longer manage independently, many are placed in publicly funded care facilities, often only for their final months.
Countering Loneliness with Cooperative Living
Isolation is a common plight among Denmark’s elderly. In many other cultures, older adults commonly reside with family. In the United States, they may choose vibrant “active adult” communities filled with recreational activities. Yet, here, the Danish policy favors allowing seniors to remain in their homes for as long as possible, which I believe contributes to their loneliness.
In response to this growing concern, the Danish government is now advocating for “cohabitation” or living cooperatives. This model encourages older individuals to share larger homes or apartments, much like university students, complete with communal kitchens and laundry. This not only fosters companionship but also opens up housing for younger families.
The Challenge of Aging in the Workforce
When I mention older people, I’m referring to those over the age of 67, the current threshold for retirement in Denmark—a figure that’s set to rise to 70 for children born today. A glaring issue emerges here: employment opportunities dwindle significantly after age 60. The market is not clamoring to hire seniors as cutting-edge designers or innovative pharma developers.
While some older individuals leverage their extensive experience on boards of directors, many find themselves reassessing their careers, pivoting towards roles in retail, office management, or even childcare. Many are simply seeking “something to do until retirement,” focusing on more personal, people-centered work.
Respect for the Elderly: A Cultural Reflection
In Danish society, the elderly do not receive the deference one might expect. A memorable instance from my teaching days exemplifies this: when a group of Nepali students inquired about specific Danish terms to express respect for their elders—an important aspect of their culture—they found that such words simply do not exist in Denmark. The current generation of seniors, often those who once embraced the counterculture of the 1960s, are known by their first names, just like everyone else.
Engagement and Contribution
How, then, do older Danes contribute to society? Many engage in volunteer work. On a recent visit to Horsens, I saw elderly volunteers expertly operating massive steam-driven machinery at the Museum of Industry—a skill few possess. Others contribute in various settings, from printing shops using historic movable type to recreating traditional Danish dishes in vintage home exhibits.
Local politics also often rely on the involvement of older individuals, who devote their time to community meetings discussing everything from sidewalk repairs to preserving green spaces. Symphony concerts and ballets have become popular outings for seniors, filling venues with generations of silver hair.
However, the cost of attending such events often limits accessibility for less affluent seniors, who may instead spend their days in local pubs, quietly nursing a single beer while participating in darts or watching television.
The Virtual Outcry
In the digital realm, older individuals often vent their frustrations on platforms like Facebook. It’s a stark contrast from their typically calm demeanor in person; some seniors can display surprising vehemence online. Just recently, I was told by a commenter named Ole—an unmistakably elderly name—that I should “go back where I came from because nobody wants me here.”
Considering Retirement in Denmark
For those contemplating moving to Denmark for retirement, I advise caution. Establishing a network can require significant initiative, and for non-Danish speakers, it may feel insurmountable. Even lifelong residents sometimes struggle to feel valued and connected within their communities.
A Reflection on Aging
While these observations may seem somber, it’s essential to remember that aging is a privilege reserved for the fortunate. Just down the street from my home in Copenhagen lies a cemetery dedicated to members of the Danish Resistance, many of whom were just teenagers executing acts of valor against Nazi oppression. They never had the chance to grow old.
This year, as I light my candle in the window, I will do so in honor of their bravery and sacrifice, ensuring their stories endure alongside our traditions.
