The project, with an estimated duration of 24 months, aims to combat social isolation and loss of autonomy among the elderly population in the municipality's rural areas. The initiative is coordinated by the Union of Private Institutions of Social Solidarity of the District of Bragança (UIPSSDB) and includes the Municipality of Bragança and the "la Caixa" Foundation as social investors. The involvement of parish councils, local associations, and other private institutions of social solidarity (IPSS) is also planned.
The Mayor of Bragança, Isabel Ferreira, highlighted the project's merit in addressing elderly isolation, enabling home support, creating a caregiver network, and assisting those who care for family members. The funding secures a specialized team and two years of support.
Of the total investment, 269,499.69 euros come from public funding (European Social Fund Plus and national counterpart), while 67,374.92 euros are provided by social investors. The project focuses on elderly individuals living alone in rural locations where distance to services and population dispersion make regular monitoring difficult.
The intervention includes the creation of local “Caregiver Communities” prepared to identify vulnerabilities and connect residents with relevant services. Each elderly person will have an individualized intervention plan, including home visits, psychological support, and cognitive and social stimulation activities.
The project also includes training for informal and community caregivers, sharing meetings (“Círculos de Cuidar”), and temporary respite mechanisms for family members. The initiative originated from a diagnosis within the Radar Social program and involves coordination with municipal services, health units, and other entities.
“"The project will allow us to support 200 people in their homes, create a network of caregivers, and provide support to those who, often alone, daily care for a family member."
