Datenbank der Projekte zur ländlichen Entwicklung

The “Touring stop” is a project focusing on the improvement of the quality of life of old people in rural areas. It is managed by the North Karelia district Heart Association, in partnership with the Karelia University of Applied Sciences.

The population in Finland is aging rapidly. The country is one of the fastest aging countries: it is estimated that the ratio of the population over 65 years of age will increase from the current 17% to 27% by 2040. The current service infrastructure is incapable of meeting the growing demand for services. The need to enhance and improve services that promote the elderly population’s role and their ability to work has been factored into plans to reform the service infrastructure. New organisations and new operating models are required for the scope and scale of this need.

The general objective of the project is to improve the quality of life of the elderly population in rural areas. More specifically, the project aims to increase the opportunities for a stimulating life, building a stronger sense of community and providing a safe living environment for old people. A secondary goal is to promote the health and physical fitness of the population. To a wider extent, the project is also expected to increase the vitality of rural areas.

Main activities included the organisation of “travelling” events, public lectures and workshops focusing on useful topics for old people living in remote areas, use of basic fire extinguishing equipment, accessibility to health assistance, etc. A network of operators from the North Karelia Rescue Department, the Rural Education Association, the Association of Pension North Karelia district, village associations, tour operators and volunteers contributed to project implementation.

From 2011 to 2012, the Touring Stop visited 91 villages in North Karelia. 30 trainings were held for 2813 participants and 42 public events for 16210 participants were organised. The project also contributed to the promotion of local associations and encouraged volunteer work, giving to those individuals already involved in associations a “morale boost” to motivate local residents to take a more active role in their community.

North Karelia

Pohjois-Karjala

Mainland

467 299

189 256

231 131

46 912

https://www.sydanliitto.fi/web/pohjois-karjalan-sydanpiiri/kiertava-pysakki

Eeva Kröger

eeva.kroger@kansanterveys.info

English, Finnish