The primary objective of this initiative is to gain an in-depth understanding of the reality of unwanted loneliness within the municipality and, based on this, guide future municipal actions. The project is being carried out in collaboration with the Directorate General for Seniors and Dependency Care of the Community of Madrid.
The study will analyze the incidence of the phenomenon, identify associated risk and protection factors, and serve as a foundation for creating a municipal action plan. Approximately 400 seniors are expected to participate, along with municipal technical staff and specialists in elder care.
Significant emphasis will be placed on citizen participation, directly listening to the experiences, perceptions, and needs of the seniors of Valdemoro. To achieve this, both quantitative and qualitative research techniques will be employed.
The first phase of the study will focus on analyzing the municipality's sociodemographic data, evaluating existing resources, and identifying indicators related to social isolation. Subsequently, surveys will be conducted among individuals over 59 to determine the prevalence and characteristics of unwanted loneliness, as well as its connection to personal, familial, and social variables.
Complementary in-depth interviews will be held with professionals from various fields and specific groups of seniors. These interviews aim to provide a more detailed analysis and gather concrete proposals for addressing the issue.
The diagnostic findings will help identify both vulnerability situations and the municipality's available resources and strengths. Based on these conclusions, the Valdemoro City Council will develop an action plan with specific measures and establish mechanisms for ongoing monitoring.
