We live in an ageing society in which many people are living longer and longer - and for the most part in good health. At the end of their lives, however, many will need help and care. Between 2011 and 2021, the number of people in need of care in Germany doubled to 5 million and has continued to rise since then. The loneliness barometer has just been published for the first time, according to which people over the age of 75 are consistently lonelier than all younger age groups. At the same time, there is a shortage of skilled workers everywhere and state funding is scarce in the face of a multitude of social challenges. What should we do? Do we continue to wait for the state in the hope that it will solve our problems or do we tackle them ourselves?

One way of solving social problems ourselves on a solid economic basis is to set up a cooperative - based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility and self-administration by the members. On Monday, June 17 at 7 p.m., Fritz Spiering will present the concept of a PflegeErfahrungsWissen e.G. using the example of the already successfully functioning GenoEifel e.G. (see www.genoe ifel.de/ ) at Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, Görlitz Campus, Building G I (Blue Box) in the auditorium on the first floor as part of the lecture series "Applied Gerontology". The technical assistance system "Care Nuggets" developed by Mr. Spiering, which he will also present, will also play an important role.

I am looking forward to an inspiring lecture and a lively discussion with all participants. Up to 30 minutes of presentation and at least 30 minutes of discussion are planned. Afterwards, a table will be reserved in the Obermühle from 8 pm, where we can continue the discussion. Please let me know by 10.06. in the morning at a.hoff(at)hszg.de whether you will be coming to the Obermühle for dinner (unfortunately we cannot cover the costs).