Reformers
Summary
Reformers believes that there is no age limit to learning and seeks to combat ageism and social isolation among the senior population. The project is characterized by a set of recreational and educational activities (such as ballet, swimming, makeup, skating, ceramics, and samba) aimed at stimulating the cognitive and motor skills of seniors, ensuring the improvement of their physical and mental health. Through talent-sharing, volunteer mentors share something they enjoy doing with senior groups, facilitating a weekly class over the course of twelve months.
The project works with groups identified by the Porto City Council, aiming to reduce the number of people over 60 years old living in isolation within the city. Reformers classes take place in a community context where a social issue affecting that community is identified, and participants work to address it through the skills they have learned—a process known as “payback.” Regardless of the activity, mentors work on different values and competencies, such as ageism, gender equality, mental health, creativity, and sustainability. To ensure these themes are effectively addressed, a continuous training program has been developed for volunteer mentors, covering some of the topics mentioned.
The impact of the project on the senior population is studied through pre- and post-test questionnaires. These questionnaires generate a final Impact Assessment Report, which is made available to the different institutions collaborating with the project. This assessment aims to analyze changes in indicators such as perceived quality of life, perceived loneliness levels, self-esteem, and sense of community.
Watch the summary video in https://youtu.be/DmOruF0L2XM
Website: https://www.reformers.pt/
Key facts
Main target group: Older people in general
Sector(s): Other
Other sector(s): Social participation; Combating social isolation.
Desired outcome for older people:
Build and maintain relationships