From events at the municipal swimming pool to learning how to use new technologies or dancing to combat unwanted loneliness

With the aim of addressing the need to continue tackling unwanted loneliness amongst older people during July and August, Fuenlabrada Town Council, through its Department for Older People, is launching the ‘Summer in Company’ initiative at municipal centres for the fifth consecutive year.

The Ramón Rubial, Ferrer i Guardia and Loranca municipal centres for older people are offering a total of 740 places – 140 more than last year – for a range of activities taking place every day of the week, from sessions at the municipal swimming pool to mobile phone training and dancing.

“This initiative helps them make the most of their free time in the summer in an active way, without losing social contact. Our aim is to ensure they don’t stay at home alone, but remain active and in good company,” explains Ana Pérez, Councillor for Senior Citizens.

Around 30 different workshops and activities are on offer across the three centres, with a range of options available depending on the day of the week and the centre. Activities range from crochet and crafts to ‘train your mind’ sessions and summer cinema, as well as more active options such as self-expression and dance workshops.

Visits to the municipal swimming pool also continue, where, accompanied by socio-cultural activity leaders, participants take part in a variety of activities such as water games, board games, talks and group activities.

In addition, the digital support centre will remain open, and participants can visit to seek help with technology-related queries or carry out online procedures with the assistance of the facilitators.

Ana Sánchez points out that the ‘Summer in Company’ programme serves a dual purpose: “on the one hand, to create support and companionship networks that reduce feelings of loneliness and promote active ageing; and, on the other, to provide a cool refuge to cope with the high temperatures”.