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Darmstadt service center supports older people with housing, daily life and participation
Darmstadt – The Social Services and Advisory Center of the City of Darmstadt has presented its 2024 annual report . The figures impressively demonstrate the increasing importance of the center for senior citizens and their families. A total of 3,528 consultations recorded – an increase of 11.1 percent compared to the previous year. Interest was particularly high in the area of housing advice , where contacts even rose by 42 percent .
Mayor Barbara Akdeniz emphasizes: “Our goal is to enable older people to live as independently as possible. The service center is an important partner in this endeavor, offering individualized support.” The increasing demand underscores the relevance of the service: “We want to continue fostering a vibrant community where all generations feel at home.”
Consultation, support and prevention
The service center is the first point of contact for questions concerning aging , housing , care , social benefits and everyday assistance . Advice is provided by telephone, in person, or during home visits barrier-free home modifications was particularly frequently requested , as were services for rent arrears or complex problems faced by seniors living alone. In such cases, case management offered, often in close cooperation with debt counseling services and housing security agencies.
The housing advisory service The service center also provides assistance with organizing household services , emergency call systems , meals on wheels , and applications for social benefits
Opportunities for interaction and participation
In addition to individual consultations, the service center also organizes preventative group activities : In 2024, 138 events held for older people, with approximately 4,600 participants . The range of activities extends from excursions, guided tours, and dance events to regular meetings with coffee and cake at senior centers.
The aim is to counteract social isolation and promote social participation. Digital support services , such as PC or smartphone training for seniors, are also part of the program. In addition, the service center provides an overview of participation opportunities , services offered by social organizations, and neighborhood initiatives in Darmstadt.
Volunteer work is welcome
The service center actively seeks volunteers – whether for the visiting service, the liaison program, or at events. "We expressly welcome your own ideas and initiatives. Anyone who has recently retired or is looking for a new challenge is warmly invited to contact us," said Mayor Akdeniz.
The full 2024 annual report is available online at:
www.darmstadt.de/leben/soziales/seniorinnen-und-senioren/servicestelle-soziales-und-beratung
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/DK)
