Individuals over the age of 70, who remain indoors or only venture out for essential errands such as shopping or medical appointments, lack a strong social support network, and reside alone or with family members who face challenges in providing care, represent the typical profile of over 40 vulnerable elderly individuals receiving assistance through the Positive Time initiative. This social intervention programme is carried out by the City Council of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in collaboration with the Island Council, aiming to combat loneliness and isolation among this demographic group.
The Positive Time project, aimed at helping vulnerable elderly individuals in the municipality of Chicharrero, was launched in September 2023 with a subsidy of nearly €162,000 provided by the Cabildo and requested by the Municipal Institute of Social Care (IMAS).
Following a request for an extension to continue the initiative, which was approved until the end of 2024, two additional minor contracts have been secured. One is for educational materials in 2023 (Lifer), and the other is for adapted transportation services through the Red Cross, scheduled to commence in early June. This transport service is intended to facilitate the participation of these elderly individuals in various activities outside their homes.
Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez emphasises that “this intervention with vulnerable individuals in the municipality aims to alleviate the unwelcome loneliness experienced by some of our elderly residents. This issue, identified by professionals and experts, is a top priority in our efforts to combat the epidemic of loneliness affecting older individuals in our society.”
Councilor for Social Action, Charín González, highlights that “the project aligns seamlessly with the IMAS’ strategy to address vulnerability and loneliness among older individuals, many of whom are dependent. In addition to providing in-home support and organising stimulating activities to enhance their cognitive, emotional, and functional skills, the project also aims to foster autonomy and self-esteem among the elderly.”
In the same vein, Águeda Fumero, the councilor responsible for Social Action at the Cabildo, underscores that “the subsidy allocated to the Positive Time project is part of the island’s commitment to supporting older vulnerable individuals. This funding scheme seeks to support valuable projects proposed by local councils.”
Expanding Services for Vulnerable Senior Citizens
Since its inception in September 2023 until the end of April, the Positive Time project has assisted 42 vulnerable elderly individuals in the municipal capital by providing the services of a social educator. These interventions aim to alleviate isolation and enhance the biopsychosocial well-being of the participants.
Following home visits to identify vulnerable cases, activities are tailored to combine recreational and therapeutic elements. Based on the emotional, social, and health needs identified in vulnerable seniors, both internal and external support resources are utilised. These services include guidance for families or caregivers, along with regular one-hour follow-up visits and off-site leisure activities based on individual interests. A diagnostic assessment is currently underway, with further evaluations planned towards the project’s conclusion in collaboration with Laguna University.
