Active ageing - Create a cross border team of ambassadors in order to improve the quality of life for Slovak and Hungary seniors

The world population is aging. It is particularly true for the regions of Košice and Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén. The life expectancy is increasing and there is a major societal shift in support networks. In both regions migration of younger generations is a tendency, resulting in leaving the older population alone. The aging population means challenges tothe health care system and presents increasing costs for society. In order to prevent this, huge emphasis should be placed on the provision of elderly-centred and integrated care.
The SKHU Ambassadors project represents an innovative approach aiming at primarily improving the quality of life of seniors by promoting their health, physical activity and socialization. Based on previous research, it has been proved that physical and mental activity and its integration into the life of seniors has a key impact on health, quality of life and the level of social inclusion of seniors on both sides of the Hungarian and Slovak borders. Through the improvement of the level of social infrastructure and services for seniors the project plans to achieve several benefits for the society of the cross-border regions. In the frame of the project two Active Aging Centres will be created in Košice and Miskolc providing colourful programs to seniors. A platform will be also developed consisting of a “Favor Bank” with the opportunity of volunteerism, thus helping seniors feel useful and needed. Additionally cross-border volunteer days will be organised. Pilot programs will be implemented and the institutional cooperation will be increased through the creation of common services. The project and its activities will be offered to the widest possible population of seniors in the 60+ age group, with an emphasis on equal access on both sides of the cross-border regions.