Helping the Elderly with EDINFI

In Pasto, Nariño, thousands of elderly individuals face a silent challenge caused by abandonment, loneliness, isolation, and the frailty of their support networks, which then leads to emotional distress. Out of the 62,000 elderly individuals who live in Pasto, 1 of 3 is at risk for social isolation, 42% lack a basic support network, and 34% show symptoms of prolonged sense of sadness, depression, and unattended solitude.

Although historically family is the main support for elderly individuals, this structure has weakened in the last few years. Factors such as their children migrating to other cities or countries, the scarcity of economic opportunities, and the growing burden of long-term care has left many elderly people without emotional support, basic care, and spaces where they can be heard and attended to.

Fortunately, Fundación EDINFI has created a program called “La Nueva Longevidad” through which they have supported over 160 elderly individuals from rural, urban and ethnic communities for the past two years. Their work integrates psychological and neuropsychological support, emotional well-being workshops, and the strengthening of support networks, as well as therapeutic and recreational activities.

Thanks to their work on their ground, they have contributed to fortifying the emotional and physical health of the elderly, to expanding their care networks, and to reviving their sense of belonging and community. Fundación EDINFI knows about their pain, but also their strength, their experience and their great capacity for rebuilding the fabric of their communities when they receive proper attention and dignified care.

But temporary interventions are not enough. In order to provide continuous care and support, Fundación EDINFI needs a permanent space. For this reason, they have created this initiative to launch a day center called “Encuentros que Sanan y Acompañan” where they can care for 120 elderly individuals.

With your support, Fundación EDINFI will be able to cover the basic maintenance and costs of running the center, as well as provide professional mental health services, physical therapy, tailored exercises, and daily nutritional support, and also acquire therapeutic tools, functional equipment, and psycho-educational materials for their beneficiaries.

Please help us create and maintain a space where the elderly are able to receive the care and support they deserve. 

To learn more about Fundación EDINFI and the work that they have accomplished, please click here.