The event, which featured music, dance, visual arts, and a discussion, also joined the UMAR Madeira campaign “AINDA – Age may tell us how old a person is, it doesn't tell us how many dreams they have”, aiming to promote a positive view of aging and raise awareness about combating age-related stereotypes.
In the opening session, the councilor for Social Affairs, Helena Leal, highlighted the importance of proximity, combating isolation, and promoting active and healthy aging. “We want to show that it is possible to age with vitality and that institutions also have a role in creating the conditions for people to have a healthier longevity and be more effectively happy”, she stated.
The councilor emphasized that proximity allows for a better understanding of seniors' living conditions, identification of their needs, and adaptation of municipal responses. The Municipality of Funchal currently supports over 3 thousand seniors monthly through municipal structures, including community centers, municipal gyms, and the Senior University.
“It is important for people to feel accompanied and occupied, as this is a predictor of mental health and longevity”, Helena Leal added.
Until October 23rd, the exhibition “Memórias em Papel” (Memories on Paper) will be on display in the Funchal Municipal Council's atrium. It showcases artistic works by users of SocioHabitaFunchal's Community Spaces, inspired by memories, figures, and professions linked to Madeiran identity.
