- The coronavirus pandemic is an extremely difficult time for the elderly, the sick, the less independent and the lonely. It was with them in mind that in 2020 we launched, among others, a dedicated helpline 22 505 11 11, through which seniors could report their need for help. Help of various kinds - from doing the shopping, walking the dog to the support of a digital volunteer or help in getting to the vaccination - says the Minister of Family and Social Policy Marlena Maląg.

As she adds, the pandemic is not over, which is why support for the elderly continues, even through a new programme - the 'Senior Citizens Support Corps'.

The idea itself remains unchanged. "Senior Support Corps" aims to provide opportunities for seniors to function safely in their place of residence by establishing cooperation between local government units, NGOs bringing together youth communities, and volunteers to form local partnerships.

The programme budget for 2022 is PLN 80 million.

How can a senior citizen apply for assistance?

When deciding to seek assistance, seniors should contact a nationwide helpline at 22 505 11 11 or directly their local social assistance centre or social services centre.

- Since the beginning of the programme, several thousand volunteers and many youth organisations have been involved in Corpus activities, setting an excellent example of empathy and inter-generational and social solidarity,' says Minister Marlena Maląg.

What support can senior citizens count on in 2022?

This will include social support, i.e. voluntary work consisting in spending time together with elderly people, going for walks. It is the elderly, although they are getting better at using new technologies, who are exposed to loneliness. We want to counteract this. The volunteer will also deliver shopping and help with the activities of daily life, walk the dog.

It is also about helping them to access health care, register for doctor's appointments, transport to vaccinations or deal with official matters.

An important part is also assistance in obtaining psychological support, information on access to nationwide "helplines" for senior citizens.

Safety wristbands for senior citizens

A major novelty is undoubtedly the improvement of safety and the possibility of independent functioning in the place of residence for seniors by increasing access to "remote care" through the purchase of so-called safety wristbands with an operating system.

The wristbands will be equipped with selected functions, e.g. safety button - SOS signal, fall detector, wristband removal sensor, GPS locator, functions enabling communication with the service centre and caregivers or functions monitoring basic life activities.

- Caring for elderly and less independent people, for their safety, is our common duty. So far, we have repeatedly demonstrated that we have passed the tests of social solidarity with flying colours. Let it continue like this - as long as help is needed, it will be provided,' asserts Minister Marlena Maląg.