“COmmunity Nurse Supporting Elderly iN a changing SOciety”
European population’s ageing challenges health and social services. Cooperation in several welfare sectors is required, since the demographic change involves both health and social issues. CO.N.S.E.N.SO project accepts the challenge by developing a care model that puts the elderly at the centre of health and social services. It builds on the pivotal role of the Family and Community Nurse (FCN). The FCN plays an innovative role, becoming the key actor who shapes and manages personalised services for the elderly and their families, particularly those living in isolated areas._x000D_
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The model aims to allow the elderly to live at home as long as possible: through periodical visits the FCN will evaluate their risk factors, manage minor health and social needs and promote healthier lifestyles. In selected Alpine communities the project will validate a model of transnational governance of processes required to deliver healthcare, prevention and active ageing. Families will benefit from reduced elderly home assistance and Regional Authorities will see a reduction of social and health costs. The project will also build capacity within the social economy by proposing innovative business models. The Alpine space, characterised by significant differences in healthcare models and cultures, is the ideal test area of a simple concept: a model of care that maximises the effect of the human relationship between the elderly and dedicated professionals._x000D_
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Information added on 2020-06-02, regarding the mitigation of the effects of COVID-19 (the coronavirus pandemic that started in 2019) (English language only): The Family and Community Nurses enable older people to stay safely at home and avoid hospitalisations. Thanks to the project, the municipality of Piossasco in Piedmont could set up quickly a network of institutions, volunteer association, local Red Cross or parishes to face the COVID-19 by supporting frail families.