In Achaea Prefecture, Greece, some 2,965 people are living with dementia, a condition that is set to grow globally in the coming decades.
In this context, raising awareness among younger people becomes fundamental: direct contact between children and the elderly promotes understanding, reduces stereotypes and promotes a more inclusive society. The project responds to this need, creating moments of meeting between generations and providing information on dementia in an accessible and engaging way.
What the project involves
The project organizes intergenerational activities in which elementary school children participate in workshops and meetings with elderly people suffering from dementia at the dedicated day centre. Through games, moments of socialization and educational activities, younger people learn what dementia is, how to support those affected by it and how to promote respectful and inclusive behaviors.
The programme is designed to be sustainable and replicable, with the aim of creating a new generation of informed and aware citizens, ready to build a society more favourable to people with dementia.
The beneficiaries
The direct beneficiaries are approximately 25 elderly people with dementia and 40 school-age children who actively participate in the activities. Indirectly, the project aims to raise awareness among a wider public through communication and dissemination of initiatives, fostering social inclusion and improving the quality of life of older people, supporting families and the local community.
The fundamental principles of the project –inclusion, sustainability and innovation – guarantee a lasting impact: they develop awareness, empathy and active participation, creating a significant link between generations and promoting a culture of acceptance of dementia.
Project name: Bringing together children and people with dementia
Proposing organisation: Corporation for Succor and Care of Elderly and Disabled-FRODIZO
Area of intervention: Health & Welfare
Country: Greece