The WHO considers loneliness to be a public health problem. Spain is one of the EU countries with the largest number of elderly people: the over-65s represent 19.95% of the population (INE, 2021). This figure already exceeds that of minors, who account for 17.59% of the total.

What the project involves

The Fundación Grandes Amigos project prevents and tackles loneliness, helping to increase the autonomy and fostering the socialisation of elderly people in vulnerable situations and/or who are socially excluded through three basic programmes: affective company (face-to-face and telephone), socialisation, and awareness-raising.

The aim of the project is to contribute to the well-being and quality of life of lonely elderly people in Spain through an integrated approach.

Expected Outcomes

  • Contributing to the well-being of the elderly
  • Encouraging the participation of those involved in group activities adapted according to need: snacks, excursions, workshops etc.
  • Promoting volunteering
  • Offering emotional support, both in the home and in residences

The beneficiaries

The project beneficiaries include 2,041 elderly people facing isolation, physical fragility, and social vulnerability. They have limitations in going out independently, affective deficiencies resulting from a reduced social network, and poor economic resources. Currently, the average age of the beneficiaries is 85 and most of them are women.

 

Project name: Stop Soledad
Proposing organisation: FUNDACIÓN GRANDES AMIGOS
Area of intervention: Health & Welfare
Country: Spain