"New Elderly" is "structural programme for Azorean society to address demographic transition," says Artur Lima - Communication

Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional

The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, chaired today the closing ceremony of the presentation of the results of the "New Elderly" programme at Solar dos Remédios, in Angra do Heroísmo. 

The Vice-President began by recalling that "the Azores face serious and structural geographical and demographic challenges," a situation that poses "significant challenges in terms of economic development, social cohesion and quality of life as the population ages."

This reality makes it "imperative that we take action with innovative social responses, with the new Elderly being a hugely creative and tremendous success," stated Artur Lima.

The programme "is a humanistic achievement" as it places "seniors and their dignity at the heart of political action," he said.  

The implementation of differentiated and individualised care allows beneficiaries to "be closer to their spaces, their personal belongings, their families, and to have more confidence, independence and greater control over their daily lives," emphasised the Vice-President.

"It gave families more time and resources to manage their family or professional lives, while also bringing recognition and professionalisation to carers through training and employment," he stressed. 

Mentioning the conclusions of the report “Preparing for Demographic Change in the Azores, Portugal,” published this year by the OECD, Artur Lima highlighted the measure’s potential to reduce healthcare costs and improve the quality of services provided in the long term. 

"The Government saves money. This is an investment programme as it generates monetary savings, improves quality of life and promotes well-being," he said.  

Regarding the latest evaluation report on "New Elderly," drawn up by an external entity, the Vice-President of the Government highlighted its "highly positive impact." In this regard, he mentioned that participation was welcomed by all parties involved, with the majority expressing great satisfaction. 

Recalling all the entities involved and expressing his gratitude to all the team members who designed and implemented "New Elderly," Artur Lima pointed out that "it was worth fighting for what we believe in," despite the "many difficulties, battles and daily struggles."

For the Vice-President of the Government, "this is a structuring programme for Azorean society."

"Today, I feel enormous gratitude. Not for myself but for our elderly," he stressed. 

The "New Elderly" programme, created in 2022 with funding from the RRP, has already benefited 519 elderly people. There are currently 400 beneficiaries in the Region.