Occupational Therapy and Intergenerational Clubs: Support for the Elderly and Strengthening Intergenerational Bonds
The Homecare NGO successfully implements Occupational Therapy Services and organizes Intergenerational Clubs as part of the project “Strengthening Capacities and Financial Sustainability in the Social Home Care Sector in Moldova.” This project is supported by Caritas Czech Republic in Moldova and funded by the Czech Development Agency under the “Czech Development Cooperation” program.
Occupational Therapy services are provided by medical and social care assistants from five medical-social centers in the Homecare network:
- CMS “Estera” in Chișinău,
- CMS “Rebeca” in Bălți,
- CMS “Sf. Iuliana” in Țaul/Dondușeni,
- CMS “Maria Magdalena” in Ștefan Vodă,
- CMS “Sfânta Agata” in Ocnița.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is a service aimed at elderly individuals, helping them develop or recover the skills needed to perform daily activities as independently as possible. Occupational therapy specialists use their knowledge from fields such as medicine, psychology, and mental health to assess and improve cognitive and communication skills, sensory functions, and the ability to adapt to various environments and situations.
Impact of the Services
In 2024, medical and social care assistants trained by experts from the Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy provided a total of 2,453 home-based Occupational Therapy sessions, with the goal of completing 3,250 sessions by the end of the year. These sessions are designed to help the elderly regain psychological, physical, and social independence, enabling them to lead more active and productive lives.
Intergenerational Clubs – Connecting the Young with the Elderly
As part of the same project, Intergenerational Clubs provide a space for social interactions between younger generations and elderly individuals. Each session brings together 10 young people and 10 elderly participants, who collaborate on shared activities such as:
- Puzzles and board games,
- Outdoor walks,
- Crafts and glass painting,
- Embroidery and digital literacy.
These clubs help reduce social isolation by offering a platform for knowledge and experience exchange between generations. Young people develop social skills, confidence, and self-esteem, while the elderly share their life experiences, enhancing their quality of life.
Tangible Results
By October 2024, 32 Intergenerational Club meetings had been organized, with a total of 35 meetings expected by the end of the year. These activities play a crucial role in combating age-related stereotypes and promoting mutual respect between generations.
An Innovative Support Model
The project initiated by Homecare NGO, with support from Caritas Czech Republic and funding from the Czech Development Agency, represents an innovative model for improving the lives of elderly people in Moldova. By engaging medical and social care assistants, young volunteers, and elderly participants, these initiatives provide essential support and opportunities for everyone involved, benefiting both the community and individuals.
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