During the 5th partners meeting in Burgos, on 26-27 April 2022, SILVER SMEs partners discovered a new initiative to boost the Silver Economy in the Province of Burgos, Spain. This new project is a good complement to all the good practices already identified during the first years of SILVER SMEs.
A Gusto En Casa (“Well at home”) is a new project developed in the Castilla y León region, Spain, to help maintaining older adults living at home. The project is based on the fact that surrounding villages are ageing and becoming depopulated, with many older adults living alone at home and needing support. In the area, 60% of the population is over 65 and 23% of these seniors live alone. Yet, when support from the neighbours or the family is not possible, many older adults are forced to move to a nursing home although they might want to stay home.
Approach
The concept of A gusto en Casa is to best meet the specific needs of vulnerable or fragile older people living at home. Local authorities therefore meet with potential beneficiaries to understand their needs and offer them tailor-made services. These services can range from support with small repairs at home, the use of new technologies or simply regular visits. The offer is holistic, but in the end, it is the beneficiary who chooses which services he or she wants to receive.
The project also includes the training of potential caregivers and the creation of jobs in the sector. The initiative is intended to be as sustainable as possible; thus, attention is paid to working conditions, employee schedules, and wages so that the experience is beneficial for both older adults and employees of the sector.
Over a three-year period, the aim is to provide support to 100 people. So far, 12 older adults are benefiting from the programme.
Resources needed
The project is a pilot project in partnership between the Province of Burgos and the municipalities from the Comarca of Arlanza and the Comarca of Sierra de la Demanda.
A Gusto en Casa is an initiative developed by public authorities; therefore, part of the services is paid by local governments and the rest is paid by the beneficiaries. The percentage paid by users is calculated according to their resources and needs. One of the programme's motto's is that no older person should be rejected because of lack of financial resources.
Overall, the budget of the initiative amounts 975,000 euros.
Looking for more initiatives on housing and care in rural areas? Check out our brochure of best practices on seniors’ housing!
