Gothenburg launches social programme to help seniors fight isolation and loneliness

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Gothenburg launched a social programme for seniors to help them fight against isolation and loneliness. Under Mayor of Gothenburg Axel Josefson, the city organised workshops, lectures and other activities for about 350 senior residents.

The programme is part of Gothenburg’s two-year project called Never Alone in Gothenburg aimed at improving quality of life of senior citizens.

City authorities reminded that a nation-wide analysis in 2019 showed that roughly 4% of Swedes suffer social isolation, with the elderly most affected. Approximately one in ten Swedes between 75 and 84 years of age were socially isolated, with the figure reaching 15% in the 85 and over group.

The two-year project is focused on curbing involuntary social isolation and loneliness among the elderly and is financed through state grants.

Project managers Pernilla Halmedal and Havva Shababi pointed out that many people are involved in the project and stressed that it has reached more seniors than before.

Gothenburg authorities reminded that reference groups of seniors helped to draw up a list of activities for the programme, which will be held at four locations in the city.

Halmedal and Shababi noted that the day of activities is the final part of the project and thanked staff and seniors who helped to organise it. The two concluded they were looking forward to the day with excitement.

(Photo credit: Pixabay)