Housing and Home-care for the Elderly and vulnerable people and Local Partnership Strategies in Central European cities
Europe is witnessing deep socio-demographic changes, namely the progressive ageing of its population. Elderly and vulnerable persons are increasingly at risk of social exclusion in urban areas due to the impoverishment of family and social linkages and significant infrastructure constraints. At present, the institutionalization of elderly and persons with disabilities presents some critical aspects, such as the homologation of care solutions, in spite of different needs, and the isolation from the social life of the community. Total ageing-related spending is projected to increase in the European Union by 4.75% of GDP by 2060 (DG SANCO).This trend represents a threat to the sustainability and efficiency of healthcare systems, with consequences on the rights of the most vulnerable persons, and on the social cohesion. The general objective of the project HELPS is to promote development strategies and practices to improve the quality of life of vulnerable groups with a strategic focus on elderly and people with disabilities in urban areas in central Europe.