For Active and Dignified Ageing

Cognitive exercises and care for the quality of life

At our booth, we offered visitors the opportunity to participate in cognitive exercises that stimulate mental abilities, maintain vitality, and contribute to better mental health. The exercises attracted great interest, as more and more people recognize the importance of preventive care for the brain and a high‑quality later life. We also highlighted the importance of mental well-being, intergenerational connections, and innovative forms of support that enable older adults to remain active and included in society.

Round table on social innovations

As part of the F3ŽO program, we held a round table titled »New opportunities for the third age: social innovations and community«, moderated by Suzanna Mežnarec Novosel, mag.
The guests were:

• Dragica Marač, mag. Psych, member of the CENTINOSS i-group (Rijeka)

• mag. Veronika Falant, Dom Nine Pokorn, Grmovje, Žalec

• Aleksander Gungl, mag. posl. oper., director of Socialnovarstvenega zavoda Hrastovec

• mag. Carmen Šeruga, member of the Management Board of the Social Chamber of Slovenia

• Matic Lesjak, mag. teol., Center za pomoč na domu Maribor

The event presented experiences from abroad, such as dementia‑friendly environments and points of contact, and practices for including people with mental health difficulties in the community. A notable example of good practice from Dom Nine Pokorn and the new residential unit in Lendava (opened in May 2024 as part of Socialnovarstvenega zavoda Hrastovec) was highlighted, where modern care is based on a sense of homeliness, autonomy, and inclusion in the local environment.

Looking to the future

Alma Mater will continue to promote innovative forms of education and support for older adults. At F3ŽO, we once again confirmed that the quality of ageing is an important social issue, with the person — with their needs, wishes, and right to dignity — at the forefront.