At the Red Cross in Dénia and Ondara, more than 150 volunteers work throughout the year on thirty solidarity projects. Among them, two initiatives stand out that seek to improve the quality of life of the elderly and those who are in vulnerable situations.
«Voices on the Net» against loneliness among the elderly
Unwanted loneliness and social isolation are growing problems among older people in Spain, especially due to the digital divide. According to projections from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), in 2050 those over 65 will represent 31,4% of the population, compared to 19,6% today.
In response to this situation, the Red Cross launched an innovative programme based on the use of voice assistants to improve the autonomy of the elderly and facilitate their communication with family members, volunteering and access to physical exercise activities. Currently, this initiative benefits more than 26.000 homes throughout Spain.
The use of these devices has shown a notable improvement in the quality of life of the participants, reducing the impact of physical deterioration and loneliness, promoting socialization and easing the workload of caregivers. According to the testimonies collected, the beneficiaries emphasize that it has allowed them to "feel more accompanied", "alleviate loneliness" and "better organize their daily lives". In addition, many experience a feeling of "empowerment through access to technology".
At a local level, the project started in December 2024 and already has thirty devices installed in Dénia and Ondara. This initiative is developed in collaboration with the Dénia City Council and its Department of the Elderly, with the support of the Amancio Ortega Foundation.
Attention to homeless people in the face of the cold wave
As part of the local emergency plan, the Red Cross has been mobilised in response to the cold wave affecting Dénia this January. In collaboration with the Local Police, a special operation has been launched to assist homeless people, providing them with basic resources to deal with the low temperatures.
The operation includes night patrols in which agents and volunteers go around the city to locate people in vulnerable situations. They are offered food, hot drinks and blankets, as well as the possibility of staying at the Red Cross base for the night. To date, eight people in different situations have been assisted.
The operation will remain active as long as the cold alert continues, guaranteeing the protection and well-being of those who need it most.
