The main objective of the workshops was to strengthen the capacity of local actors and jointly develop innovative strategies and project ideas that address the challenges of an aging society and the depopulation of peripheral areas.
Key findings and proceedings of the meeting:
Assessment of seniors’ needs (Senior Housing):
During the first session, the situation of self-sufficient but isolated older adults was discussed. Key challenges were identified: a sense of isolation, limited mobility in areas with poor transportation links, digital exclusion (difficulties in accessing e-services), and bureaucratic barriers in handling official matters.
Project Concept (Concept Idea) – Senior Housing in Faenza:
During the workshops, a concept for a specific territorial intervention was developed:
What: Creation of 15–25 independent apartments for seniors with extensive shared facilities (common rooms, laundry room, green spaces, a digital support center, and transportation assistance).
Where: Adaptation of the historic complex of the former Santa Chiara monastery in Faenza.
Who: A public-civil society partnership involving SOLCO, the local government, and nongovernmental organizations.
Benefits: Combating loneliness among seniors, revitalizing a historic site, and creating new jobs and volunteer opportunities for younger generations.
Next Steps:
Participants defined an operational goal for the next 18–20 months, including the implementation of a pilot project and the launch of at least three shared services. The need for continuous co-design and multi-level governance was emphasized.
All the ideas and recommendations developed will be used to prepare the Local Territorial Strategy. It will be a key component of the project document titled “Integrated Territorial Strategy.”