Health buddies in Wusterhausen: support for seniors in everyday life

Health buddies in Wusterhausen: support for seniors in everyday life

When it comes to supporting older people, the use of volunteer *health buddies* is crucial. In Wusterhausen, Renate Rettschlag, a committed 68-year-old, took on her role as a health buddy two years ago to enable people in need of care to live independently. “maz-online.de” reports on her work, which focuses on exercise and mental activity and through regular home visits to an elderly lady with Parkinson's disease and dementia is realized.

Launched about ten years ago by the Potsdam gerontologist Gisela Gehrmann, the Health Buddy in Wusterhausen 2021 initiative was further fleshed out with the founding of the Aktive Lebensfreu(n)de group. This group has set itself the task of organizing events for people in need of care and offers weekly support from the health and culture buddies. Their meetings include not only exercise and brain games, but also conversations and sharing memories, thereby reducing social isolation.

Stay healthy in old age

The purpose of these initiatives is underpinned by the complex challenges faced by older people today. According to the Federal Ministry of Health, the RKI pursues continuous health monitoring that is specifically aimed at the needs of older people. Regular population-representative health studies are essential in order to sustainably improve the quality of life in old age. The “Health 65+” health study, which runs from 2021 to 2024, is intended to collect relevant data on the mental and physical health of older people. These data are valuable for developing specific health promotion interventions tailored to the needs of this age group, especially given challenges such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are similar projects in Vienna, where the Vienna Relief Organization has initiated a health program aimed at around 33,000 frail people over the age of 65. The *Health Buddies* in Vienna not only offer support in everyday life, they also give tips on healthy eating and support in building muscle. Particular emphasis is placed on raising awareness of the risk of falls and promoting quality of life. A free physical therapy assessment helps those interested to qualify for the program and take the necessary steps.

Volunteering

Both programs reflect the need to promote independence and quality of life for older people. The Wusterhausen Health Buddies are financed through the “on-site care” program of the nursing care funds and user contributions, while in Vienna participation in the health program is free. Committed people are needed to overcome the numerous challenges of old age. The Vienna relief organization is actively looking for health buddies who, after in-depth training, can support their neighbors and fellow human beings.

The connection between voluntary work and professional support is the key to an active and self-determined life in old age. Anyone interested in Wusterhausen can find all contact addresses in the article on maz-online.de, while Viennese people can find out about the offers of the hilfswerk.at can inform you. The focus in both cities is clearly on improving the quality of life and preventing the typical risks of old age.