Summary
The Municipality of Póvoa de Lanhoso currently has a network of nine recreation centres which serve 175 people that work in partnership with the Parish Councils. The last one opened in 2nd of june 2018. Strategically, the municipality aims to expand this partnership to every parish council in Póvoa de Lanhoso. There are 22 parish councils in the municipality. Póvoa de Lanhoso has approximately 3931 people over 65 years old. Recreation centres aim to reduce social isolation of seniors that, in a large number, live alone. Recreation centres aim to promote quality of life, through various activities that are offered, in a weekly basis, such as music, cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, entertainment activities, handicraft, cultural and social events. These networks are currently implemented in nine parishes, namely Friande, S. João de Rei, Vilela, Esperança/Brunhais, Fontarcada/Oliveira, Rendufinho, Ferreiros, Póvoa de Lanhoso e Travassos. Each centre functions in older primary schools that were reactivated for this purpose. The transportation of older people that have mobility difficulties is ensured by the Parish Council as well as the afternoon tea. The management of the activities is guaranteed by the Municipality. Participating in these group activities allows older people who are isolated to maintain their functional ability (music, cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, entertainment activities, handicraft, cultural and social events). It also contributes to the promotion of physical and mental health, social interactions and postpones institutionalization. The impact has been very positive, measured by the high level of satisfaction expressed by the beneficiaries, the growth in their self esteem and joy of living. The Municipality plans to open more recreation centres shortly.
Website: https://www.povoadelanhoso.pt
Key facts
Main target group: Vulnerable older people (e.g. at risk or victims of abuse, living alone, poor etc.)
Other target group(s): General older people; people in ative age that have mental disabilities
Sector(s): Health, Information and communication, Social protection, Transportation
Other sector(s): Social inclusion
Desired outcome for older people:
Build and maintain relationships
- Ageism
- Accessibility
- Ageing in place
- Healthy behaviours (e.g. physical activity)
- Intergenerational activities
- Inclusion
- Participation
Contact details
Name: Silva, Raquel
Email address: raquel.silva@mun-planhoso.pt
Preferred language(s): portuguese, english