In a context of profound demographic transformation, our country is faced with unprecedented challenges: on the one hand, the decrease in births, on the other, the lengthening of life and the increase in the long -lived population. This reality requires serious and articulated reflection, capable of putting social and welfare policies aimed at the fourth age at the center, not as a problem, but as a resource of value for society as a whole.
“Active mind” is a cycle of four regional meetings and a national appointment, promoted by Arci, which aims to face these challenges from a political and strategic perspective, promoting practices of inclusion, participation and enhancement of the figure of the over 65. These meetings are an opportunity to build a shared and innovative vision, capable of responding to the needs of a population that, now, represents the present and future of our country.
The second appointment will be held on Monday 19 May in Catanzaro at the “Fasano” social aggregation center (via Scopelliti, 1), from 11:00 to 17:00, and will be dedicated to “social hubs and digital skills”. A moment of comparison between representatives of the South Regions, experts and associations, aimed at discussing how digital can become a tool of emancipation, inclusion and strengthening of over 65 social relations.
The event will see the participation of important figures such as Antonella Bertuzzi (CGIL), Saveria Cristiano (Calabria Region), Giuseppe Bruno (Digital developer), Elena Sodano (RA.GI.) and other institutional and third sector interlocutors, ready to share experiences and good practices. After the social lunch offered by Arci Catanzaro, a comparison will take place between operators and representatives of the South Arci to outline operational strategies to be carried out in the next stages of the “active mind” path.
Why is this initiative fundamental? Because active aging is not only a challenge, but an opportunity to strengthen the social fabric, promote autonomy and enhance the heritage of knowledge and participation of people over 65. It is time to invest in policies that strengthen the places of sociality, comparison and intergenerational growth, so that no one is left behind.
The path continues with other appointments:
May 9, Bologna: “Over 65 and cultural welfare”
June 16, Turin: “Over 65 and gender policies”
June, Rome: meeting with institutional guests
Our society needs a paradigm change: elderly people are resources, not problems. The way to a more inclusive future also passes from the enhancement of their experience, from the promotion of shared policies and a concrete commitment to build a society that takes into account everyone’s needs, without exclusions.