Promoting Mental Health in the Algarve for Senior Citizens
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- 31 Oct 2024
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In the region of the Algarve, an initiative is making strides in promoting mental health among the elderly population. The Mental Health Project 360 Algarve has already benefited 273 senior citizens, surpassing initial projections and highlighting the pressing need for mental health support in this demographic. This project, funded by the Belmiro de Azevedo Foundation and supported by the municipalities of Faro, Loulé, and Olhão, aims to enhance the mental well-being of the elderly through a comprehensive range of activities and consultations.
Addressing Mental Health Needs
The need for such an initiative became evident when it was revealed that many individuals over the age of 65 were experiencing mental health crises, including depression, anxiety, and other disorders. Ricardo Valente, the project manager and psychologist at the Platform ‘Saúde em Diálogo’, emphasized the importance of promoting mental health in this vulnerable population. “Our goal is to enhance mental health among the elderly, particularly those who are most at risk,” he stated.
The Mental Health Project 360 Algarve encompasses a robust framework of 600 activities and over 500 psychosocial consultations. This proactive approach not only addresses existing mental health issues but also emphasizes prevention and early intervention. Valente explained that the project was born out of insights gained from a previous initiative, Health Space 360 Algarve, which identified significant mental health needs among seniors.
Collaborative Efforts
The project is a collaborative effort involving 11 partners, including various associations and private social solidarity institutions. This partnership model allows for a more comprehensive approach to mental health, leveraging the expertise and resources of multiple organizations to create a supportive environment for the elderly.
The focus of the initiative is not solely on remediation but also on preventive measures. The project aims to tackle key issues such as depression, cognitive decline associated with aging, and suicide prevention. By addressing these critical areas, the initiative seeks to foster a healthier, more resilient elderly population.
Measuring Success
Since its launch in September, the project has already engaged 273 users across the three municipalities. The objectives are ambitious yet achievable: the initiative aims to increase quality of life by at least 10% in one of the following dimensions—physical, psychological, social, or environmental. Additionally, it seeks to improve mental well-being by 10% among the participants.
The success of the Mental Health Project 360 Algarve not only reflects the effectiveness of the interventions but also underscores the importance of mental health awareness and support for the elderly. As the project continues to evolve, it serves as a model for similar initiatives across Portugal and beyond.
The Mental Health Project 360 Algarve is a vital step toward addressing the mental health needs of the elderly in the Algarve region. By promoting mental well-being and providing essential support services, this initiative is helping to improve the quality of life for senior citizens. As the project progresses, it highlights the critical importance of mental health awareness and intervention, paving the way for a healthier, more inclusive society for all ages.
