Summary

Some regions of the Navarrese Pyrenees Mountains in northern Spain have experienced significant demographic changes in recent years. There has been depopulation specifically of young people, while the remaining population is ageing. The project for Active and Healthy Ageing began in the spring of 2017, in the municipality of Almiradío de Navascués. 

The aim of the project was to expand and improve the activities and services offered to the elderly, so that they can remain active, healthy and independent in their home environment. 

In order to promote healthy and active ageing, the project offered physical and social activities to improve the physical and emotional wellbeing of the elderly population. 

Results

The project has been appreciated, earning the respect of all parties involved. Even though at the start many of the elderly felt embarrassed or suspicious, the project workers managed to break down those barriers. 

Initially, the project only covered the area of Almiradío de Navascués but nowadays, it covers almost all valleys of the Eastern Navarre Pyrenees including, the Salazar, Roncal, Aézcoa and Erro, representing 10% of the territory of the region. 

The project is continuing its work, supported by other funds. Furthermore, what started as an individual initiative, turned into a cooperative that now has three partners and several employees.