Since 2019, the Alpes-Maritimes Department has been developing “My Neighbor 06 Has Heart”. Led by the Departmental House of Autonomy, this free scheme connects isolated seniors and caregivers with volunteers committed to a proximity solidarity approach.
Faced with the isolation of elderly people and the difficulties encountered by some caregivers, the Alpes-Maritimes department relies on “My Neighbor 06 Has Heart”. The scheme creates a link between volunteer volunteers and seniors or caregivers seeking daily support.
Led by the Departmental House of Autonomy (MDA), this service is part of the Departmental Plan to Support Caregivers (PDAA). Since its launch, over 1,000 people have benefited from this support.
The objective is to enable volunteers to provide support, assistance and presence to isolated seniors as well as caregivers in difficulty. The scheme aims to promote greater peace of mind, rest and well-being in the daily lives of the people accompanied.
Trained volunteers for support tailored to needs
The proposed tasks are varied. Volunteers can participate in friendly visits, share a listening moment, accompany an outing or provide occasional help with daily tasks.
Support can also include shopping, pharmacy visits, appointments, administrative or computer-related tasks. For caregivers, the scheme can also allow a volunteer to temporarily look after a loved one.
Anyone wishing to give their time can register by specifying their intervention preferences. After an initial discussion with department professionals, future volunteers receive two days of training before signing a trust charter.
Strengthened commitment to seniors and caregivers
The department emphasizes the importance of maintaining social bonds, particularly during periods of extreme heat which can weaken elderly people.
Charles Ange Ginésy, president of the Alpes-Maritimes department, states: “As episodes of extreme heat can weaken elderly people, increase their isolation and make daily tasks more difficult, the Alpes-Maritimes department reaffirms its commitment to seniors and their caregivers. Through the “My Neighbor 06 Has Heart” scheme, it mobilizes a network of solidarity volunteers to strengthen social bonds, provide concrete support to isolated elderly people and offer valuable assistance to caregivers on a daily basis.”
Registrations are open for people wishing to benefit from the scheme or become volunteers. Applications can be made at monvoisin06aducoeur.fr or by telephone at 0 805 404 022 (toll-free call).
To find the actions and news of the Departmental House of Autonomy (MDA), visit www.mda06.fr.
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