Within the framework of the project "Protecting of the right to dignified aging and dementia preventing", Institute Circle from Slovenia and NVU Impuls from Montenegro organised a fourth and final round table, with the aim of connecting important actors in the field of social care and local decision-makers. The project is supported by the European Union, Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia and Ministry of Public Administration of Montenegro. The round table was held on 21 September 2023, in Nikšić (Montenegro), meaningfully on World Alzheimer's Day, aimed at raising awareness of dementia, reducing stigma, and educating about risk factors and prevention. The meeting brought together key actors in the field of protection of elderly citizens and was focused on the topic "The importance of building a support network for people with dementia and their caregivers". It represented a significant step towards improving the care of people with dementia and their caregivers who, due to the need for constant care, are themselves at high risk of burnout.
The goal of this round table was to emphasise the importance of creating a support network for these people and to provide guidelines to local governments and institutions for the improvement of social and child protection plans at the local level. The round table was attended by representatives of local self-governments of Nikšić and Plužine, centres for social work in Nikšić and Podgorica, Red Cross Nikšić, Institute for Social and Child Protection, mentors, and volunteers on the project, as well as representatives of other relevant institutions. The discussions were inspiring, and the exchange of experiences and ideas among the participants contributed to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by people with dementia and their caregivers.
During the meeting the Strategic Guidelines designed within the project were presented, with the aim of improving social protection plans of local governments and institutions, by prioritising older people and people with dementia, as well and therefore contributing to their improved quality of life. The round table that was held on 21 September was a good example of how joint work and cooperation can bring about positive changes in society. The project "Protecting of the right to dignified aging and dementia preventing" continues the dedicated work to achieve its goals for the highest benefit of its target groups and beneficiaries, and looks forward to future innovations and achievements in the field of protection of senior citizens and prevention of dementia.
