The International Day of Older Persons is commemorated every October 1st in Andalucía to recognise their essential role in society. The Councillor for Social Services, Families and Equality, Loles López, led an event in Seville on Tuesday, where she highlighted their legacy of love, experience and humanity.
The event took place at the Caixaforum space in Seville and was attended by prominent community representatives, including the General Secretary for Families, Equality and Gender Violence, Concha Cardesa, and content creator Guadalupe Fiñana, known as 'The Grandmother of Dragons'. During the ceremony, eight awards were presented to recognise the commitment of individuals and entities working in favour of the elderly.
Valuation of the Role of the Elderly
Loles López emphasised that the elderly are “people full of life and energy” and that, despite their accumulated experiences, they still have much to live. She also urged society to care for and recognise their work, highlighting that “having an elder in your life is having a hug when you are unwell and advice when you are lost.”
In this context, the councillor urged younger generations to value the legacy of the elderly, stating that they “bathe us in love, reality and humanity.” Guadalupe Fiñana, also during her speech, encouraged young people to listen to their grandparents' advice and to use technology to stay connected.
Actions Against Unwanted Loneliness
The elderly population in Andalucía exceeds 1.7 million, representing 20% of the total. The Junta de Andalucía has implemented various measures to address the challenges of ageing, especially the fight against unwanted loneliness. The network of 168 Active Participation Centres in the community is highlighted, promoting meetings and coexistence among the elderly.
During the last legislative term, more than 23 million euros were allocated to these centres, including renovations and improvements in digitalisation. Additionally, the Junta has launched the portal www.juntate.es and the free phone number 900 100 300, to provide resources and support to those facing loneliness.
At the event, outstanding individuals from different provinces were awarded, including Nicolás Castillo from Almería, and Eduardo Tornes Lacasta from CPA Málaga-Trinidad, who at 95 years old remains active in his daily work.
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