Eating in the Klönküche: Together against the loneliness of the seniors!

Eating in the Klönküche: Together against the loneliness of the seniors!

Pauls Holzwerkstatt in Schwerin, Deutschland - In Schwerin, the Klönküche is on the program, a recurring event that aims to bring lonely seniors together. Organized by Eric Paul and Katarina Christ, this meeting is a real highlight for around 30 participants who contribute something to a cozy get -together with small things such as coffee, milk or cake. There are no special costs, which means that the barrier to participate is low. Every few weeks it says again: sound once, please!

The kitchen kitchen is more than just a nice get -together. Loneliness is actively combated here, a topic that is often noticeable in old age. The Federal Ministry of Family Affairs has taken on this problem and promotes several projects that aim to cohesion older people. According to the ministry, loneliness not only affects seniors, but also affects all age groups in Germany. Women of old age are particularly affected, but younger people are also increasingly isolated.

embedded activities and support

At the meetings in Paul's wood workshop, the seniors have the opportunity to exchange ideas, take part in bingo rounds or simply chat a little. Grill afternoons, musical performances and interesting lectures, such as the grandchildren's trick fraud, are also planned. Financially, the Klönküche is supported by numerous donations from local restaurateurs and dealers who stand up for social cohesion. For example, the Hotel Elefant donated ducks for Christmas to give the participants a special pleasure.

A committed team of 13 volunteers lovingly takes care of the seniors and ensures that the Klönküche remains a successful meeting point. Particularly outstanding occasions are defined dates that take place for Christmas or children's day and offer the seniors special experiences.

a wider network against loneliness

The Federal Ministry of Family Affairs has launched the ESF Plus program "Strengthening the participation of older people-against loneliness and social isolation" since October 2022, which will promote more than 70 projects with innovative offers by September 2027. The aim is to build regional cooperation structures that offer older people more participation options. At the same time, the project "Fit and connected to loneliness" (FIVE), is promoted, which should develop movement and sports offers for all age groups.

In addition, 530 subsidized multi-generation houses are available nationwide, which actively prevent insulation and loneliness with diverse encounter and leisure activities. These houses promote social exchange and offer activities for all ages. The ESF Plus program has set itself the goal of not only supporting older people, but also creating a general awareness of loneliness in many areas of life.

With projects such as the Klönküche in Schwerin, it is impressively shown how common experience and active participation in the community can promote happiness and quality of life of the elderly. The positive feedback not only pleased those responsible, they also encourage that such initiatives are urgently needed in times of loneliness and isolation.