JAPANESE AND BRITISH GOVERNMENTS FINANCIALLY SUPPORT OPENING OF ELDERLY PEOPLE'S CLUB IN UNGHENI

The Governments of Japan and Great Britain in partnership with the UN Population Fund, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection have opened the first club of elderly people in Ungheni. Florence Bauer, Regional Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia of the Fund, Ambassador of Japan to Moldova Yamada Yoichiro, representatives of the British Embassy, Parliament, local public administration and partners participated in the opening ceremony.

The Senior Center offers a wide range of services - from sports, yoga, music and dance to reading and handicrafts - aimed at improving the health of people as they age, stimulates intergenerational dialogue, and promotes social inclusion.

"We are convinced that age is not a barrier but an opportunity for further development," said Florence Bauer.

Demographic projections for the Republic of Moldova show that by 2040, generations aged 50 and over will account for half of the country's population. These changes will have serious implications for Moldova's social, economic and health sectors.

The active participation of older people in these kinds of active and healthy ageing initiatives shows that this experience is very important and necessary for Moldova and should be replicated in all localities of the country.