Stralsund and Ribnitz-Damgarten: Old rescuers win innovative prize!

Stralsund and Ribnitz-Damgarten: Old rescuers win innovative prize!

In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania there was recently a special award for geriatric care, which demonstrates the innovative strength and commitment of the care facilities in the region. On October 6, 2025, the facilities in Stralsund and Ribnitz-Damgarten were honored with the state's geriatric care award. A central focus was on emergency management, a hot topic that is becoming increasingly important due to demographic change.

The “Blackout” project received first prize from the welfare institutions in Stralsund. In collaboration with energy suppliers and the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW), the initiators developed a manual that ensures food and medication supplies in emergencies. Social Minister Stefanie Drese (SPD) emphasized the importance of such disaster protection measures. Ultimately, older people need particularly reliable support in emergencies.

Placements and projects

The geriatric care prize, which is awarded annually and is endowed with a total of 5,000 euros, particularly rewards projects that benefit both those in need of care and the nursing staff. The Educational Institute for Health and Social Professions (BiGS) in Stralsund took second place. This facility offers additional space for training nursing trainees and promotes exchange within the nursing profession.

Third place went to the Regional Vocational Training Center of the Vorpommern-Rügen district in Ribnitz-Damgarten with the innovative “Maintaining language” project. This project supports trainees in improving their German skills, which not only serves the personal growth of the nursing staff, but also strengthens communication with the people being cared for.

Importance of emergency management

Emergency management in care facilities plays a crucial role in acting quickly and correctly in critical moments. At a time when the number of people in need of care is continually increasing, clear processes are essential. As ppm-online explains, emergencies ranging from medical incidents to fires can be managed effectively when staff are well prepared. This includes regular training and the implementation of specific measures for emergency situations.

The jury for the geriatric care award is made up of the previous year's winners as well as representatives of health insurance companies and is chaired by Minister Drese. This also honors the almost 18,000 nursing staff in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania who work every day for the well-being of our fellow human beings. Today's event not only serves as a recognition, but also as an incentive for further developments in geriatric care.

For the future, the focus will be on digital solutions and increased cooperation with healthcare providers so that care facilities are even better prepared for the challenges of a changing healthcare system.