These projects were chosen from among the 132 applicants to the “Ageing in the Community” tender, an initiative launched by the Foundation to strengthen the capacity of the social organisations acting in this field.

The tender took place as a result of a study – Ageing in Place –, carried out in 2018 and involving a survey of the best practices in this field that range from the guidelines handed down by the World Health Organisation: maintaining the more elderly in their own environments where they live in safety and actively participating in community life.

The jury distinguished innovative proposals, many of them reaching out to geographically isolated persons and those experiencing inequalities in the opportunity to access service provision across every level. Healthy styles of life, engaging in physical activities, stimulating social participation, the utilisation of new technologies for active and healthy ageing, for resolving daily tasks and for cognitive stimulation and preserving mental health are among the initiatives now under development.

This also highlights the practice of volunteering among the elderly, training and support for the family and professional carers and improved means of access in both the private and the public sphere.

Over a three year period (2019/2022), the Foundation shall accompany these projects as they undergo implementation in locations including: Oporto, Santa Maria da Feira, Marco de Canaveses, Boticas (Vila Real), Amares (Braga), Mação, Castelo Branco, Portalegre, Mértola, Lisbon and Câmara de Lobos (Madeira).

The entities responsible for these projects receive financial support and training for their professionals both on the site of project implementation and at the Foundation in attending broader ranging thematic sessions.