The North Evia forest fires of 2021 affected 36 local communities, causing property loss and psychological stress to the residents. Responding to these urgent needs as soon as possible, REMIND-Greek Association of Alzheimer’ s Disease and Related Disorders of Chalkida, created a senior citizens' support programme for people aged 60 and over, as well as their carers. TIMA Charitable Foundation made a donation to the programme for 2022.
The programme's mental health measures are being implemented in eight core fire-stricken districts, covering mental health needs in more than 60% of the impacted areas. In municipalities, reception facilities staffed by psychologists, nurses, and physiotherapists have been established. Assessment services, psychological support, and group and individual therapeutic exercise programmes are provided on a regular basis, to older persons with chronic ailments and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as their carers.
This initiative is making a significant difference in the lives of older adults by empowering, engaging, and reconnecting them. Beneficiaries are truly delighted with the services and believe that it is critical that they continue to have access to specialist services in distant places. Staff from the programme have also worked with key partners to provide crisis management courses for community workers and volunteers, focusing on dementia-related concerns such as communication challenges and psychological first aid.
