Copenhagen funds senior folk schools to combat loneliness

Copenhagen Municipality has allocated DKK 2 million annually to send around 250 elderly residents on senior folk school stays, aiming to build lasting communities and reduce loneliness, reports DR.

The initiative, supported by the city’s health and care mayor, Jens-Kristian Lütken, targets vulnerable seniors identified with the help of home care staff. The stays last four to six days and are designed to foster new connections.

Bjarne Hastrup, director of Ældre Sagen, praised the move, noting that some elderly need encouragement to engage in community activities. The selection process also considers where participants live to help maintain relationships after the stay.

“It makes sense to create opportunities for long-term relationships,” Hastrup said. “They can share a coffee and continue the community after the folk school stay.”