Semear Afetos
Basic information
Project Title
Semear Afetos
Category
Prioritising the places and people that need it the most
Project Description
We are a project of innovation and social and environmental entrepreneurship, we reduce the impact of social isolation on elderly people, actively occupying them and valuing knowledge and intangible culture, through the creation of creative sewing workshops. The products made by Avós d’Afetos are sold under their own registered brand (Semear Afetos) which promotes the sustainability of the project and investment in higher quality initiatives to support the elderly supported by the project.
Geographical Scope
Regional
Project Region
District of Santarém, Portugal
Urban or rural issues
Mainly rural
Physical or other transformations
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
EU Programme or fund
Yes
Which funds
ESF : European Social Fund
Description of the project
Summary
Our region, very marked by aging and desertification, the senior suicide rate was much higher than the European average.
Senior suicide was the result of social isolation and the feeling that “we are already old and have nothing left to give to the community”.
Social isolation leads to depression and many of these people saw no other way out than suicide.
The seeding affections project was created to respond to this social problem.
We created a community transport system to pick up elderly people from their homes and developed several initiatives in partnership with schools, kindergartens and the entire community, where learning is shared, combating negative stereotypes about aging and promoting the appreciation of elderly people in society
We also involve seniors in the economic development of the community by creating creative sewing workshops where we create sustainable products by reusing waste from the textile industry, reinventing traditional techniques with a touch of modernity, promoting intangible culture and productive aging.
The products made in these workshops are sold under their own registered brand (Semear Afetos) which promotes the sustainability of the project and investment in higher quality initiatives. For example, in 2022 we managed to fulfill the dream of 15 elderly people of flying by plane and took them to visit the island of Madeira.
According to the results of the impact assessment, since we started working, seniors:
They have reduced the frequency with which they have feelings of sadness and loneliness;
Improved mental and physical health;
Improved their self-esteem and self-confidence;
They have increased their sense of belonging to the community as they feel more useful and valued;
Their feeling of autonomy and independence increased.
There have been no suicides for about 3 years. We believe that it is the best result of the affections we sow.
Senior suicide was the result of social isolation and the feeling that “we are already old and have nothing left to give to the community”.
Social isolation leads to depression and many of these people saw no other way out than suicide.
The seeding affections project was created to respond to this social problem.
We created a community transport system to pick up elderly people from their homes and developed several initiatives in partnership with schools, kindergartens and the entire community, where learning is shared, combating negative stereotypes about aging and promoting the appreciation of elderly people in society
We also involve seniors in the economic development of the community by creating creative sewing workshops where we create sustainable products by reusing waste from the textile industry, reinventing traditional techniques with a touch of modernity, promoting intangible culture and productive aging.
The products made in these workshops are sold under their own registered brand (Semear Afetos) which promotes the sustainability of the project and investment in higher quality initiatives. For example, in 2022 we managed to fulfill the dream of 15 elderly people of flying by plane and took them to visit the island of Madeira.
According to the results of the impact assessment, since we started working, seniors:
They have reduced the frequency with which they have feelings of sadness and loneliness;
Improved mental and physical health;
Improved their self-esteem and self-confidence;
They have increased their sense of belonging to the community as they feel more useful and valued;
Their feeling of autonomy and independence increased.
There have been no suicides for about 3 years. We believe that it is the best result of the affections we sow.
Key objectives for sustainability
We are a non-profit social solidarity institution that has existed since 2011. We support around 200 children daily in daycare, kindergarten and study rooms. We also support around 50 families in need with food, clothing and furniture.
Initiatives we would like to highlight:
- we have two social stores where the community can donate clothes to families in need but also buy second-hand clothes. All donated clothing that is not in a position to be reused is sent for textile recycling through a company we partner with. Last year we reused around 15,000 pieces of clothing and sent 8 tons for recycling.
- during the Christmas season we encourage children and families not to purchase new toys but to exchange toys between the children in each room.
- Throughout the year, whenever there is a surplus of agricultural production (pumpkins, potatoes... etc.) the community delivers it to the institution and the elderly people involved in the project transform it into cupcakes or sweets that are then sold to raise funds for other social initiatives.
- The raw materials for the products made by the elderly are made from fabrics that were destined for waste. And in addition to the textile use component, whether clothing or even textile waste (from companies in the region), products are created that aim to replace the usual disposables (make-up remover pads, vegetable bags, shopping bags, dish sponges... .etc)
- the involvement of the entire community in the institution's initiatives is very important and that is why, annually, we survey, through a questionnaire, the community in general and the people who use our services, about what we can do better and the needs they feel to we realize how we can grow...together.
Initiatives we would like to highlight:
- we have two social stores where the community can donate clothes to families in need but also buy second-hand clothes. All donated clothing that is not in a position to be reused is sent for textile recycling through a company we partner with. Last year we reused around 15,000 pieces of clothing and sent 8 tons for recycling.
- during the Christmas season we encourage children and families not to purchase new toys but to exchange toys between the children in each room.
- Throughout the year, whenever there is a surplus of agricultural production (pumpkins, potatoes... etc.) the community delivers it to the institution and the elderly people involved in the project transform it into cupcakes or sweets that are then sold to raise funds for other social initiatives.
- The raw materials for the products made by the elderly are made from fabrics that were destined for waste. And in addition to the textile use component, whether clothing or even textile waste (from companies in the region), products are created that aim to replace the usual disposables (make-up remover pads, vegetable bags, shopping bags, dish sponges... .etc)
- the involvement of the entire community in the institution's initiatives is very important and that is why, annually, we survey, through a questionnaire, the community in general and the people who use our services, about what we can do better and the needs they feel to we realize how we can grow...together.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
The project objectives bring benefits to vast areas:
Combating social isolation: with creative sewing workshops we create opportunities for social interaction for the elderly, providing a welcoming and stimulating environment. Results: combat loneliness and isolation, promoting greater connection with the community (participation in local fairs to showcase products).
Valuing intangible culture: We rescue and value the traditions, stories and knowledge of the elderly, recognizing the importance of intangible culture in building the identity of a community. Result: Increased feeling of belonging and preservation of collective memory.
Intergenerational integration: Interaction of different generations, providing opportunities to exchange experiences and knowledge (workshops with schools and families). Results: mutual and respectful learning environment, combating negative stereotypes about aging and promoting the appreciation of the elderly in society.
Emotional well-being: We contribute to the emotional well-being of the elderly, providing moments of joy, fun and socialization with others, which helps to reduce anxiety and depression, promoting a better quality of life.
Environmental: By reusing textile waste from companies in the region, we are reducing the environmental impact of the textile industry and promoting more sustainable practices. We also raise awareness of the importance of adopting more sustainable practices in society.
We consider that we are exemplary in this context because we involve the entire community in favor of the social, environmental and economic well-being of the region.
Combating social isolation: with creative sewing workshops we create opportunities for social interaction for the elderly, providing a welcoming and stimulating environment. Results: combat loneliness and isolation, promoting greater connection with the community (participation in local fairs to showcase products).
Valuing intangible culture: We rescue and value the traditions, stories and knowledge of the elderly, recognizing the importance of intangible culture in building the identity of a community. Result: Increased feeling of belonging and preservation of collective memory.
Intergenerational integration: Interaction of different generations, providing opportunities to exchange experiences and knowledge (workshops with schools and families). Results: mutual and respectful learning environment, combating negative stereotypes about aging and promoting the appreciation of the elderly in society.
Emotional well-being: We contribute to the emotional well-being of the elderly, providing moments of joy, fun and socialization with others, which helps to reduce anxiety and depression, promoting a better quality of life.
Environmental: By reusing textile waste from companies in the region, we are reducing the environmental impact of the textile industry and promoting more sustainable practices. We also raise awareness of the importance of adopting more sustainable practices in society.
We consider that we are exemplary in this context because we involve the entire community in favor of the social, environmental and economic well-being of the region.
Key objectives for inclusion
One of the pillars of the Semear Afetos project is inclusion.
Intergenerational inclusion combats negative stereotypes associated with aging, promoting a positive vision and valuing the contribution of older people to society.
Promotion of social inclusion of the elderly, combating social isolation and the feeling of exclusion from the community.
Inclusion of the elderly in the economic development of the community, through creative sewing workshops and the marketing of products made.
Some examples we want to highlight:
- carrying out awareness-raising activities on the difficulties in accessing some public service buildings for people with physical limitations in partnership with a National Association (Associação Salvador).
- We involve people from 4 months to 97 years of age in our activities, encouraging the sharing of knowledge and intergenerational affection.
- participation in various initiatives such as fairs to showcase regional products as a way of making the work of the elderly involved in the project better known and validating and valuing their knowledge and intangible culture.
Intergenerational inclusion combats negative stereotypes associated with aging, promoting a positive vision and valuing the contribution of older people to society.
Promotion of social inclusion of the elderly, combating social isolation and the feeling of exclusion from the community.
Inclusion of the elderly in the economic development of the community, through creative sewing workshops and the marketing of products made.
Some examples we want to highlight:
- carrying out awareness-raising activities on the difficulties in accessing some public service buildings for people with physical limitations in partnership with a National Association (Associação Salvador).
- We involve people from 4 months to 97 years of age in our activities, encouraging the sharing of knowledge and intergenerational affection.
- participation in various initiatives such as fairs to showcase regional products as a way of making the work of the elderly involved in the project better known and validating and valuing their knowledge and intangible culture.
Results in relation to category
The project had very positive impacts on both direct and indirect beneficiaries
Improving the quality of life of the elderly: the project provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for the elderly, promoting social interaction in physical, cultural and educational activities, and strengthening family and community ties, resulted in a significant improvement in the quality of life life of the elderly, with increased happiness, satisfaction and well-being.
Combating social isolation: with the activities promoted, seniors had the opportunity to connect with other people, make new friends and strengthen social ties. This helped reduce loneliness and social isolation, improving the mental and emotional health of older people.
Promoting active aging: Physical activities, such as walking, dancing and exercise, have contributed to improving physical health and preventing diseases related to aging. Cultural and educational activities stimulated the brain and promoted continuous learning, helping the elderly to remain mentally active.
Strengthening intergenerational relationships: interaction between different generations provided opportunities for elderly people to connect with children, young people and adults of different ages. This helped to break down stereotypes and prejudices related to aging, encouraging understanding and respect between generations, which brought mutual benefits, with older people sharing experiences, and younger people learning from them.
Impact on the community: the project also contributed to strengthening community ties, promoting social inclusion and valuing intangible culture. This has helped create a more welcoming and supportive community where older people are valued and respected
Environmental: the reuse of textile waste in activities carried out in creative sewing workshops, the reuse of agricultural surpluses from the community transforming them into regional sweets, cakes and liqueurs had a brutal environmental impact
Improving the quality of life of the elderly: the project provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for the elderly, promoting social interaction in physical, cultural and educational activities, and strengthening family and community ties, resulted in a significant improvement in the quality of life life of the elderly, with increased happiness, satisfaction and well-being.
Combating social isolation: with the activities promoted, seniors had the opportunity to connect with other people, make new friends and strengthen social ties. This helped reduce loneliness and social isolation, improving the mental and emotional health of older people.
Promoting active aging: Physical activities, such as walking, dancing and exercise, have contributed to improving physical health and preventing diseases related to aging. Cultural and educational activities stimulated the brain and promoted continuous learning, helping the elderly to remain mentally active.
Strengthening intergenerational relationships: interaction between different generations provided opportunities for elderly people to connect with children, young people and adults of different ages. This helped to break down stereotypes and prejudices related to aging, encouraging understanding and respect between generations, which brought mutual benefits, with older people sharing experiences, and younger people learning from them.
Impact on the community: the project also contributed to strengthening community ties, promoting social inclusion and valuing intangible culture. This has helped create a more welcoming and supportive community where older people are valued and respected
Environmental: the reuse of textile waste in activities carried out in creative sewing workshops, the reuse of agricultural surpluses from the community transforming them into regional sweets, cakes and liqueurs had a brutal environmental impact
How Citizens benefit
The direct beneficiaries of the Semear Afetos project, who are the elderly in the community, were involved from the beginning of the project. Meetings were held with the elderly to present the project, listen to their needs and expectations, and involve them in defining the activities to be developed. Home visits were also carried out to identify the elderly who were most isolated and in greatest need of support.
In addition, partnerships were established with local institutions, such as schools, kindergartens and associations, to promote intergenerational inclusion. Joint activities were carried out, such as creative sewing classes, where elderly people taught children how to sew and children taught elderly people how to use new technologies.
Civil society was also involved in the project through awareness and dissemination campaigns, where the project's objectives and the importance of including elderly people in the community were presented. Lectures were held at schools and community events, where elderly people could share their experiences and knowledge.
The impact of this involvement was very positive. The elderly felt valued and included in the community, which contributed to improving their self-esteem and self-confidence. Civil society also began to have a more positive view of aging and to value the contribution of the elderly to society. Furthermore, partnerships established with local institutions allowed the exchange of knowledge and experiences between generations, promoting intergenerational inclusion and strengthening community ties.
In addition, partnerships were established with local institutions, such as schools, kindergartens and associations, to promote intergenerational inclusion. Joint activities were carried out, such as creative sewing classes, where elderly people taught children how to sew and children taught elderly people how to use new technologies.
Civil society was also involved in the project through awareness and dissemination campaigns, where the project's objectives and the importance of including elderly people in the community were presented. Lectures were held at schools and community events, where elderly people could share their experiences and knowledge.
The impact of this involvement was very positive. The elderly felt valued and included in the community, which contributed to improving their self-esteem and self-confidence. Civil society also began to have a more positive view of aging and to value the contribution of the elderly to society. Furthermore, partnerships established with local institutions allowed the exchange of knowledge and experiences between generations, promoting intergenerational inclusion and strengthening community ties.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Innovative character
The Semear Afetos project is innovative in relation to existing initiatives due to:
Holistic approach: considering not only the physical needs, but also the emotional, social and psychological needs of older people. This is done through activities that promote social inclusion, the appreciation of the elderly and the promotion of mental and physical health.
Intergenerational inclusion: we promote intergenerational inclusion, through partnerships with schools, kindergartens and the entire community. This approach allows the exchange of knowledge and experiences between generations, promoting the appreciation of older people and the construction of stronger community ties.
Civil society involvement: The project involves civil society through awareness and dissemination campaigns, which present the project's objectives and the importance of including elderly people in the community and environmental concerns. This contributes to changing mentalities and valuing the elderly in society.
Creative sewing workshops: in creative sewing workshops, seniors can develop skills and create products made from textile waste. This approach promotes the inclusion of elderly people in the economic development of the community, allowing them to actively contribute to its financial sustainability.
Fulfillment of dreams: The project provides experiences and opportunities for personal fulfillment for the elderly, such as realizing their dream of flying on a plane and getting to know the island of Madeira. These experiences contribute to increasing the self-esteem and self-confidence of elderly people, promoting their emotional well-being.
Environmental: The raw materials for the products made by grandmothers are made from fabrics that were destined for waste. And in addition to the textile use component, whether clothing or even textile waste (from companies in the region), products are created that aim to replace the usual disposable items, promoting the region's intangible culture
Holistic approach: considering not only the physical needs, but also the emotional, social and psychological needs of older people. This is done through activities that promote social inclusion, the appreciation of the elderly and the promotion of mental and physical health.
Intergenerational inclusion: we promote intergenerational inclusion, through partnerships with schools, kindergartens and the entire community. This approach allows the exchange of knowledge and experiences between generations, promoting the appreciation of older people and the construction of stronger community ties.
Civil society involvement: The project involves civil society through awareness and dissemination campaigns, which present the project's objectives and the importance of including elderly people in the community and environmental concerns. This contributes to changing mentalities and valuing the elderly in society.
Creative sewing workshops: in creative sewing workshops, seniors can develop skills and create products made from textile waste. This approach promotes the inclusion of elderly people in the economic development of the community, allowing them to actively contribute to its financial sustainability.
Fulfillment of dreams: The project provides experiences and opportunities for personal fulfillment for the elderly, such as realizing their dream of flying on a plane and getting to know the island of Madeira. These experiences contribute to increasing the self-esteem and self-confidence of elderly people, promoting their emotional well-being.
Environmental: The raw materials for the products made by grandmothers are made from fabrics that were destined for waste. And in addition to the textile use component, whether clothing or even textile waste (from companies in the region), products are created that aim to replace the usual disposable items, promoting the region's intangible culture
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
In the design and implementation of the Semear Afetos project, several disciplines and areas of knowledge were reflected:
Gerontology: was fundamental in understanding the specific needs and challenges of the elderly, as well as in developing strategies to promote health and well-being in old age.
Psychology: contributed to understanding the emotional and psychological issues of elderly people, such as loneliness, sadness and low self-esteem, and developing intervention strategies to promote their mental well-being.
Sociology: helped to understand the social dynamics and negative stereotypes associated with aging, as well as the importance of social inclusion and the participation of elderly people in the community.
Education: played an important role in promoting intergenerational inclusion, through joint activities between elderly people and children, and in valuing the knowledge and experiences of elderly people.
Economy: was considered in the creation of the creative sewing workshops, which aim to promote the inclusion of elderly people in the economic development of the community, through the commercialization of the products made, promoting the sustainability of the project.
Consultants from these areas interacted with each other in planning and discussion meetings. Exchanges of ideas, debates and joint reflections were held, aiming to integrate different perspectives and ensure a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach.
The added value of this process was the possibility of considering the different dimensions of aging and the social inclusion of older people, as well as the opportunity to develop more effective and comprehensive strategies to promote the well-being and participation of older people in the community. The interaction between the different areas of knowledge allowed a broader and more integrated view of the project, contributing to its quality and positive impact.
Gerontology: was fundamental in understanding the specific needs and challenges of the elderly, as well as in developing strategies to promote health and well-being in old age.
Psychology: contributed to understanding the emotional and psychological issues of elderly people, such as loneliness, sadness and low self-esteem, and developing intervention strategies to promote their mental well-being.
Sociology: helped to understand the social dynamics and negative stereotypes associated with aging, as well as the importance of social inclusion and the participation of elderly people in the community.
Education: played an important role in promoting intergenerational inclusion, through joint activities between elderly people and children, and in valuing the knowledge and experiences of elderly people.
Economy: was considered in the creation of the creative sewing workshops, which aim to promote the inclusion of elderly people in the economic development of the community, through the commercialization of the products made, promoting the sustainability of the project.
Consultants from these areas interacted with each other in planning and discussion meetings. Exchanges of ideas, debates and joint reflections were held, aiming to integrate different perspectives and ensure a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach.
The added value of this process was the possibility of considering the different dimensions of aging and the social inclusion of older people, as well as the opportunity to develop more effective and comprehensive strategies to promote the well-being and participation of older people in the community. The interaction between the different areas of knowledge allowed a broader and more integrated view of the project, contributing to its quality and positive impact.
Methodology used
The methodology and approach used are based on participatory, inclusive and holistic principles. I describe each of these approaches
Participatory: involves the active participation of elderly people from the beginning. Meetings were held with the elderly to present the project, listen to their needs and expectations, and involve them in defining the activities to be developed. Home visits were also carried out to identify the elderly who were most isolated and in greatest need of support. The participation of elderly people is valued and their opinions are considered at all stages of the project
Inclusive: promotes the social inclusion of elderly people, combating social isolation and the feeling of exclusion from the community. To this end, partnerships are established with local institutions, such as schools, kindergartens and associations, to promote intergenerational inclusion. Joint activities are carried out, such as creative sewing classes, where elderly people teach children how to sew and children teach elderly people how to use new technologies. Furthermore, the project seeks to involve civil society through awareness and dissemination campaigns, promoting the appreciation of elderly people in the community and appreciation of their knowledge and culture. Combating ageism and valuing the role of older people in society are preponderant factors throughout the project.
Holistic: adopts a holistic approach, considering not only the physical needs, but also the emotional, social and psychological needs of the elderly. Activities are carried out that promote social inclusion, the appreciation of the elderly and the promotion of mental and physical health. Furthermore, the project seeks to provide experiences and opportunities for personal fulfillment for the elderly that contribute to increasing their self-esteem.
The project methodology are flexible and adaptable, allowing activities to be customized according to the needs interests of the elderly
Participatory: involves the active participation of elderly people from the beginning. Meetings were held with the elderly to present the project, listen to their needs and expectations, and involve them in defining the activities to be developed. Home visits were also carried out to identify the elderly who were most isolated and in greatest need of support. The participation of elderly people is valued and their opinions are considered at all stages of the project
Inclusive: promotes the social inclusion of elderly people, combating social isolation and the feeling of exclusion from the community. To this end, partnerships are established with local institutions, such as schools, kindergartens and associations, to promote intergenerational inclusion. Joint activities are carried out, such as creative sewing classes, where elderly people teach children how to sew and children teach elderly people how to use new technologies. Furthermore, the project seeks to involve civil society through awareness and dissemination campaigns, promoting the appreciation of elderly people in the community and appreciation of their knowledge and culture. Combating ageism and valuing the role of older people in society are preponderant factors throughout the project.
Holistic: adopts a holistic approach, considering not only the physical needs, but also the emotional, social and psychological needs of the elderly. Activities are carried out that promote social inclusion, the appreciation of the elderly and the promotion of mental and physical health. Furthermore, the project seeks to provide experiences and opportunities for personal fulfillment for the elderly that contribute to increasing their self-esteem.
The project methodology are flexible and adaptable, allowing activities to be customized according to the needs interests of the elderly
How stakeholders are engaged
During the planning and execution of the project we had several different strategic partners, public and private, with strong knowledge of the community.
In relation to knowledge about social relations and sustainability, we have had several collaborations with Universities, and with State entities such as the Santarém City Council, the Abrã Parish Council, Foundations and Companies in the Region that were social investors in the project.
At a transnational level, our CEO was recognized this year in the Top 10 Women in social interprise by Euclid Network and we created connections with many entities represented at European level.
We are scaling the project to 14 Institutions with the support of the Cidadãos Ativ@s program, supported by the Calouste Gulbenkian and Bissaya Barreto Foundations and financed by the Active Citizens Fund (Financing Countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway).
In relation to knowledge about social relations and sustainability, we have had several collaborations with Universities, and with State entities such as the Santarém City Council, the Abrã Parish Council, Foundations and Companies in the Region that were social investors in the project.
At a transnational level, our CEO was recognized this year in the Top 10 Women in social interprise by Euclid Network and we created connections with many entities represented at European level.
We are scaling the project to 14 Institutions with the support of the Cidadãos Ativ@s program, supported by the Calouste Gulbenkian and Bissaya Barreto Foundations and financed by the Active Citizens Fund (Financing Countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway).
Global challenges
The Semear Afetos project addresses global challenges related to the aging of the population and the social isolation of the elderly. These challenges are common in many countries around the world as life expectancy increases and traditional family structures change.
Population aging is a global phenomenon that brings with it a series of challenges, such as loneliness, lack of social support and deterioration in physical and mental health. Furthermore, social isolation among older people is a growing problem, where a lack of social interaction can lead to health and well-being problems.
In rural areas like ours, where desertification and the flight of young people to big cities accentuate the aging of the population, this problem is glaring.
The Semear Afetos project offers local solutions to these global challenges, providing a welcoming and stimulating environment for older people. Through the organization of physical, cultural and educational activities, the project promotes social and intergenerational interaction, helping to combat loneliness and social isolation. The involvement of the entire community in this participatory interaction of the elderly in the economic and social activities of the region reinforces the feeling of unity and belonging in the community.
By addressing these global challenges with local solutions, the Semear Afetos project contributes to improving the quality of life of the elderly and promoting active and healthy aging. By sharing its experiences and best practices, the project can also inspire other communities and organizations to implement similar initiatives in their own contexts, contributing to a broader and more sustainable impact.
Population aging is a global phenomenon that brings with it a series of challenges, such as loneliness, lack of social support and deterioration in physical and mental health. Furthermore, social isolation among older people is a growing problem, where a lack of social interaction can lead to health and well-being problems.
In rural areas like ours, where desertification and the flight of young people to big cities accentuate the aging of the population, this problem is glaring.
The Semear Afetos project offers local solutions to these global challenges, providing a welcoming and stimulating environment for older people. Through the organization of physical, cultural and educational activities, the project promotes social and intergenerational interaction, helping to combat loneliness and social isolation. The involvement of the entire community in this participatory interaction of the elderly in the economic and social activities of the region reinforces the feeling of unity and belonging in the community.
By addressing these global challenges with local solutions, the Semear Afetos project contributes to improving the quality of life of the elderly and promoting active and healthy aging. By sharing its experiences and best practices, the project can also inspire other communities and organizations to implement similar initiatives in their own contexts, contributing to a broader and more sustainable impact.
Learning transferred to other parties
Some elements of the Semear Afetos project can be replicated or transferred to other locations and contexts, they are:
Methodology: The methodological approach used in the project, which involves creating a welcoming and stimulating environment for the elderly, can be adapted and applied in different contexts. This includes organizing physical, cultural and educational activities, as well as promoting social and intergenerational interaction.
Processes: The processes developed in the project, such as the organization and coordination of activities, can be replicated in other contexts. This includes partner identification, resource mobilization, impact assessment and project management.
Learnings: Lessons learned throughout the project, including challenges faced and best practices identified, can be shared with other projects and organizations. This can help inform and guide future initiatives related to combating social isolation in older people and promoting active aging.
Creative sewing workshops: These workshops are already being replicated in 14 institutions in the Municipality of Santarém. Next year, we aim to be able to expand to more institutions in the country.
In these workshops, elderly people learn to sew, reuse textile waste and create new products from clothes that cannot be reused. By selling these products, entities are able to raise funds to invest in more initiatives that benefit the elderly involved in the activities.
Because we consider the strong possibility of scaling our project, and the advantages of its implementation for the entire community, are the reason for submitting this application, as we want to publicize our methodology and results
Methodology: The methodological approach used in the project, which involves creating a welcoming and stimulating environment for the elderly, can be adapted and applied in different contexts. This includes organizing physical, cultural and educational activities, as well as promoting social and intergenerational interaction.
Processes: The processes developed in the project, such as the organization and coordination of activities, can be replicated in other contexts. This includes partner identification, resource mobilization, impact assessment and project management.
Learnings: Lessons learned throughout the project, including challenges faced and best practices identified, can be shared with other projects and organizations. This can help inform and guide future initiatives related to combating social isolation in older people and promoting active aging.
Creative sewing workshops: These workshops are already being replicated in 14 institutions in the Municipality of Santarém. Next year, we aim to be able to expand to more institutions in the country.
In these workshops, elderly people learn to sew, reuse textile waste and create new products from clothes that cannot be reused. By selling these products, entities are able to raise funds to invest in more initiatives that benefit the elderly involved in the activities.
Because we consider the strong possibility of scaling our project, and the advantages of its implementation for the entire community, are the reason for submitting this application, as we want to publicize our methodology and results
Keywords
Ageism
Active aging
Intangible culture
Innovation
Social and environmental sustainability
