Starogard

Population in retirement age is expected to almost double between 2004 and 2013 (from 13.8% to 25.6%), while long-term structural unemployment among over 50 is already very high. Progressive loosening of family and social ties owing to young family members migrating is leading to solitude, depression, vegetation and unhealthy lifestiles. Care services for elderly self-sufficiency is the key area of intervention of the Starogard municipality. Social inclusion activities, management of free time, daily routine activities, and the use of technological device (mobile phone, cash dispenser, credit card, and the internet) are major sources of difficulties and exclusion for elderly people. Worsening conditions of health services and a progressive marginalization of ageing people makes social inclusion a priority policy issue. The “Daily Stay House” of Starogard has been providing physiotherapy, health care and hygiene treatment to old as well as disabled or mentally ill people. elderly marginalization is a major issue. A Third Age University is providing different activities and courses to 228 (elderly) students. Starogard municipality’s expectations concern the exchange of experiences and information on employment and  social care, and the inclusion of severely marginalised or isolated elderly people. The municipality is also interested in learning how to develop forms of cooperation between the various levels of governance and, at the local level, how to promote cooperation with groups, institutions and NGOs.