A group of young people is working on a prototype, application or device to support the elderly in alleviating loneliness and facilitating communication between generations. At the same time, the prototype should improve the digital skills of the elderly, as well as the participation in community activities.

The event, called “Youth for the Elderly: Hackathon Against Loneliness”, is organized by UNFPA Moldova, in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. The team that will impress the jury with the most innovative and friendly solution adapted to the needs of the elderly will receive a $15,000 prize to put the project into practice.

UNFPA Resident Representative Karina Nersesyan said that the solutions that the young people will identify during three days need be applicable.

Aliona Cristei, UNFPA Moldova program analyst, mentioned that only a third of the elderly in Moldova have opportunities for active and healthy aging. Studies show that older people who use the Internet and digital technologies are more actively involved in community life, are more informed and lead better lives. 20% of the elderly mentioned that they faced and had feelings of loneliness and depression. The analyst expressed regret that only 2% of the elderly actively engage in lifelong learning activities.

Felicia Bechtoldt, State Secretary at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, announced that the Ministry has launched a new grant program for active and healthy aging. All interested organizations are invited to apply by April 8 with proposals for cultural, sports and other activities that increase the participation of the elderly in community life.

Doina Nistor, director of the Technologies of the Future Project, said that the challenge we have today is a universal one - to put technologies to work for people, to make their lives better. We can always learn and always develop and we can do this with the help of technologies.

Representatives of the Third Age University and the Moldovan Union of Pensioners also attended the event. They confessed that they used to run away from technology, but now they are moving in the direction of progress.

The “Youth for the Elderly: Hackathon Against Loneliness” event will run until March 17, when an awards ceremony will also be held.