Following Grandparents' Day, health and social care professionals in Alcobendas warn that care for the elderly cannot be limited to medical needs: they urge action against loneliness, housing adaptations, and the promotion of autonomy.
The aging population is an unstoppable phenomenon in Alcobendas, bringing challenges that go far beyond medical consultations and medications. This is the warning from professionals in the social health sector of the municipality, who, on the occasion of the recent Grandparents' Day, have called for a comprehensive care model that centres on the emotional well-being, autonomy, and social participation of older people.
Raquel Granados, supervisor of the Alegría Residence in Alcobendas, explains that “feeling useful, respected, and heard is just as important as receiving good healthcare.” In her daily work, she asserts that the key lies in respecting the rhythms, preferences, and personal history of each resident, something she defines as “person-centred care.”
The profile of older people has also changed. According to Granados, they are increasingly reaching older ages while maintaining greater autonomy, which necessitates adapting services. “Many require more demanding physical exercise programmes, especially strength training, while cases of cognitive decline and more complex pathologies are also on the rise,” she details.
One of the aspects the professional emphasises is the need to preserve the autonomy of the elderly. She believes there is still a tendency to decide for them with the intention of protecting them, when in reality, aging with dignity means continuing to participate in decisions that affect their own lives.
Within this well-being, affection and companionship play a fundamental role. A quiet conversation, a gesture of affection, or simply taking time to listen can make a significant difference in an older person's mood. Similarly, frequent contact with family often translates into greater motivation and emotional stability.
For families, Granados delivers a clear message: shared time remains one of the most valuable gifts. “Often we think that what matters is resolving practical issues, but sharing a meal, conversing, or showing interest in how they feel has immense value,” she points out.
Looking to the future of Alcobendas, the supervisor considers it a priority to adapt housing by removing architectural barriers and improving urban furniture and public spaces to make them more accessible and friendly for older people. She also advocates for strengthening programmes against unwanted loneliness from the administrations, promoting intergenerational activities, and encouraging the involvement of the entire society.
The challenge, she concludes, is collective: “Aging with dignity is much more than receiving healthcare. It is about feeling part of something, having purpose, and continuing to be oneself.”
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