The Commission has played a significant role in the drafting of the document.
In Rhineland-Palatinate, the "GemeindeschwesterPlus" project, launched in 2015, has been making a significant impact in supporting very elderly individuals living at home. Originally a pilot project in seven municipalities, it has now expanded to be offered in 16 districts, 8 independent cities, 3 associations of municipalities, and one independent municipality. The goal is to extend this project statewide by 2026.
The "GemeindeschwesterPlus" project focuses on addressing the challenges of social isolation and loneliness in old age. Specialized community nurses, known as "GemeindeschwesterPlus," play a crucial role in this initiative. These nurses visit very elderly individuals in their homes, providing not only medical and nursing support but also social interaction.
By maintaining close contact with their clients, these nurses can detect early signs of health deterioration or social withdrawal. This early intervention can prevent or delay worsening health conditions that would lead to increased care dependency.
The nurses offer counseling and teach skills for everyday management, helping elderly individuals maintain autonomy in daily life for as long as possible. They also coordinate with other health and social services to ensure their clients have access to the support they need.
Moreover, the project facilitates access to local support networks, community groups, and services, enhancing social integration and providing additional resources to assist with daily living. This approach helps very elderly individuals maintain their independence at home.
By focusing on prevention and sustained independence, the project aims to delay or avoid costly nursing home placement and intensive care services. Community nurses serve as a vital link for local networking in Rhineland-Palatinate, initiating local health- and independence-promoting social offers.
Community nurses in the project act as a point of contact for various social offers and services, connecting individuals to existing, easily accessible, and suitable offers such as senior centers, exercise programs, or local courses. In essence, "GemeindeschwesterPlus" acts as a bridge between the very elderly living at home and the broader health and social care system.
The project targets individuals over 80 years old who still live at home and do not yet require care. The aim is to provide advice and support at home, delay the need for care, and serve as a point of contact. Community nurses aim to strengthen existing structures through their work in the "GemeindeschwesterPlus" project, fostering social connections and promoting health and independence for very elderly individuals in Rhineland-Palatinate.
- The 'GemeindeschwesterPlus' project expands its focus beyond medical care, incorporating mental health and wellness, aiming to promote family health as well.
- Recognizing the unique challenges in mental health among elderly males, the project introduces targeted services under 'mens-health' to bridge the gap.
- Similarly, acknowledging the distinct needs of elderly females, the 'GemeindeschwesterPlus' project launches specialized programs under 'womens-health'.
- In keeping with the commitment to family health, the project also provides resources and guidance for parenting, ensuring the wellbeing of the elderly and their families throughout their aging process.
