SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 30th July (EUROPA PRESS) –
The presentation of the Strategic Framework for Care of the Elderly took place at the Tenerife Fairgrounds on Tuesday, marking the first step towards the launch of ‘Islénior Mayores de Tenerife’. This plan aims to address the comprehensive needs of the elderly in a holistic manner.
Over 400 individuals, including senior citizens, representatives from all municipalities on the island, and professionals from various sectors, gathered to witness the unveiling of this initiative. The plan was developed following a participatory process that gathered input from this significant segment of the population. The resulting Strategic Framework focuses on five key areas: autonomy, social environment, territoriality, management, well-being, as well as relevant dissemination efforts.
Lope Afonso, the Vice President of the Cabildo, highlighted that “today, we are fulfilling a longstanding commitment that Tenerife owes to its elderly population”. He emphasised that “this strategy features a truly holistic approach, underscoring the importance of seniors as valuable members of society.”
Afonso emphasised that “following the participatory process, we now have all the necessary information to provide more precise and effective responses to the demands of the elderly. This extends beyond just catering to their leisure time, encompassing aspects such as combating loneliness, social health care, social tourism, active participation in public life, and other measures to ensure a fulfilling and dignified life.”
The Councillor for Social Action, Águeda Fumero, expressed her delight at the culmination of this process, stating that “this is a significant moment for the Cabildo de Tenerife and a proud one for the Social Action department. The gathering includes individuals who actively participated in the formation of ‘Islénior’, an initiative long awaited by a society that has been advocating for a programme to meet their needs and safeguard their rights.”
Fumero pointed out that “40% of Tenerife’s population is over 50 years old, with 14.5% being over 65, necessitating the administration to equip itself with the necessary resources to cater to this substantial demographic.”
She outlined that this multi-year strategic framework will be effective from 2024 to 2030, designed to comprehensively address the needs of the elderly from personal autonomy to leisure activities, with the ultimate goal of creating a senior-friendly environment on the island.”
The councillor underscored that “this initiative is crucial in driving a ‘revolution’ in social management, placing individuals at the core of all policies, enhancing access to services for those who are most vulnerable, and continuing to enhance autonomy by improving mobility, providing efficient information, bridging the digital gap, and recognising the invaluable role of caregivers.”
The Strategic Framework is in alignment with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030.
