Przemyśl Caritas supports the elderly not only during special occasions

For five years, World Grandparents' Day and the Elderly Day have been celebrated on July 26th – a holiday established at the initiative of Pope Francis. This date is no coincidence, as it coincides with the liturgical commemoration of Saints Joachim and Anne – the grandparents of Jesus. This symbolic holiday provides an opportunity to pause and remember the immense importance that older people have in our lives and society. In a time when the pace of life is constantly accelerating and traditional family structures are changing, seniors often struggle with loneliness, social isolation, lack of daily support, and health and financial difficulties. This is why it is so important not only to remember older adults on this day, but to take concrete actions to promote their well-being – every day.

True care for the elderly cannot be limited to special events or annual well-wishes. These daily, systematic efforts aimed at improving the quality of life of seniors are a true testament to intergenerational solidarity. For years, Caritas Przemyśl has been running a number of initiatives aimed at older adults, who often need not only material support but, above all, the presence of others and a sense of belonging. One key form of such assistance is the Day Care Homes (DDP) – facilities operating in many towns across the region, including Przemyśl itself. DDPs are day care centers for people over 60, particularly those struggling with loneliness, illness, limited mobility, or the need for constant social contact. These centers are open Monday through Friday and offer a wide range of services, including transportation, full board, activity classes, rehabilitation, and psychological support. For many seniors, this is their only opportunity to leave the house, talk, participate in workshops, or participate in community events. It is also a space where they feel noticed, needed and appreciated.

The seniors' daily schedule also includes time for common prayer – Przemyśl 2024.

At the Day Care Centers run by Caritas of the Archdiocese of Przemyśl, each day is carefully planned. The program includes a wide range of activities tailored to the abilities and interests of participants. These include morning exercise, memory exercises, art therapy (art therapy), music classes, handicraft and culinary workshops, and even theater classes. Regular team-building events, group singing, prayer, and themed discussions are held. Seniors also participate in off-site events, including trips, picnics, art exhibitions, meetings with uniformed services, and various special occasions: Grandparents' Day, Valentine's Day, national holidays, anniversaries, and religious events.

All of this takes place under the watchful eye of an experienced team: caregivers, occupational therapists, psychologists, physiotherapists, and volunteers. Their commitment and empathy are invaluable – thanks to them, seniors feel safe, understood, and valued. The DDP space becomes more than just a place to stay – it's a homely environment conducive to building relationships, rebuilding self-esteem and independence, and integrating with the local community.

As our society ages, initiatives supporting the elderly are becoming particularly important. According to data from the Central Statistical Office, by 2030, one in four Poles will be over 60. Many of them already struggle with loneliness, illness, poverty, and architectural barriers that limit their independence. Day Care Centers (DDCs) are a response to these real challenges – they combine social care, rehabilitation, emotional support, and social activation. Two such centers currently operate in Przemyśl – at 15a Jasieńskiego Street and 6 Piotra Skargi Street. Over 60 people use them daily. It's not just a number – they are real people, with stories, needs, and expectations, who find their place thanks to DDCs. In total, over 200 seniors use all Caritas Day Care Centers in the region every day. This demonstrates the great need for such centers and how effectively they can counteract the marginalization of older adults.

Although the world is changing, the needs of older people remain constant: a desire for connection, understanding, respect, and belonging. Day Care Centers in Przemyśl and other towns in the Podkarpacie region are living proof that old age doesn't have to mean loneliness or exclusion. Thanks to the commitment of Caritas of the Archdiocese of Przemyśl, its employees, volunteers, and the local community, seniors have the opportunity to live each day actively, creatively, and with a sense of purpose. Celebrating World Grandparents' Day and the Elderly is an excellent opportunity to thank our seniors for their lives, wisdom, experience, and presence. But it shouldn't end with words. The best expression of gratitude is daily care—not only institutional care, but also personal care: a visit, a phone call, a smile, and attention. It's these small gestures that build community that matters.

Day Care Centers are more than just care facilities—they're places where old age regains its splendor. Thanks to them, older people can once again feel part of community life, rediscover the joy of everyday encounters, and experience their twilight years in an atmosphere of respect and kindness. And this—contrary to appearances—doesn't cost much, but it truly brings a lot.

Rev. Dr. Paweł Konieczny