Dancing, social games, lectures, workshops... how Zagreb retirees fight against loneliness

In Zagreb, a growing number of elderly individuals are finding ways to combat loneliness through community engagement initiatives organized by local organizations. According to data from the 2021 population census, there were 94,119 single-person households in the city, with a significant portion consisting of older adults living alone after the death of their spouse. Loneliness among this demographic has become a pressing issue, prompting efforts to connect them with social activities and meaningful interactions. The initiative, titled “Nikada sami” (Never Alone), is being led by the Matica umirovljenika Grada Zagreba (MUZG) in partnership with the organization Zeleni klik and the Volonteri u palijativnoj skrbi La Verna. The project, which is funded by the European Union under the program “Efficient Human Potential,” aims to reduce social isolation among the elderly by offering a variety of group activities designed to promote physical and mental well-being. These include educational sessions, financial literacy workshops, and social gatherings that encourage participation and interaction. The program, part of the broader “Active Aging” initiative, operates in several regions across Croatia, including Zagreb, Zagreb County, Sisak-Moslavačka, Karlovac, Krapina-Zagorska, and Ličko-Senjska counties. Over 580 different activities are planned throughout the two-year duration of the project, targeting both retirees and older adults who may have limited opportunities for social engagement. These activities range from gardening clubs and creative expression workshops to sports tournaments and cultural outings. One of the more popular components of the project has been the series of events focused on combating loneliness through fun and interactive formats. In June, MUZG hosted three lectures on managing finances during retirement, organized a workshop on urban gardening in the EkoEkipe Prečko community garden, and conducted two sessions on creative expression as a means of improving mental health and self-esteem. Additionally, a bridge tournament was held, drawing participants from various age groups. Zvonimir Repač, the secretary of MUZG, noted that the aspect of the project involving social games, sports competitions, and dance events has proven particularly appealing to attendees. He explained that these activities provide a sense of belonging and enjoyment, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation. “This part of the project, combating loneliness, is the most attractive to participants because it includes a wide range of social games, sports events, and entertainment such as dancing and excursions,” he said. All activities within the project are offered free of charge, making them accessible to all interested individuals regardless of their financial situation. Repač emphasized that this accessibility is crucial, especially given that many older people live on fixed incomes and may struggle to afford recreational activities. “This project provides an opportunity for them to engage in activities simply and freely,” he added. The organizers have also introduced elements such as lotteries and quizzes to enhance the appeal of social gatherings, particularly the dance events. Attendance figures have been encouraging, with an average of 80 to 100 participants per event, even during the summer months when fewer activities are typically available. Repač expressed optimism about continued attendance, noting that they expect even higher turnout as the season progresses into autumn.