Initiatives for people aged 50+ implemented by municipalities and enterprises in the Opole special demographic zone

The article addresses an innovative instrument of regional development management, namely the Special Demographic Zone (SDZ). The zone has been established in Opolskie Voivodeship, a region marked by the most unfavourable demographic trends among other Polish regions. The article aims to highlight activities intended for people aged 50+ pursued by municipalities and enterprises operating within the SDZ as well as discussing the assessment the Opolskie for the Family programme by surveyed stakeholders. Based on the theoretical framework of the SDZ, a questionnaire has been designed, and a survey has been carried out with a view to achieving the aforesaid aim. Based on the analysis of survey results, the authors have identified the need for and scope of further action that will allow local self-governments and enterprises to implement the concept of the SDZ in a more effective manner.