Promote Healthy Aging in Finland

Older people who drink get stigmatized a lot. They are viewed as one homogeneous group, generalized as older people with a substance abuse problem. The stereotype pictures them as helpless and worthless objects without self-determination. This perception creates a divison between the younger and older generation and leads to a negative downward spiral. We need to think about the morality of substance abuse across generations instead of moralising it.

Our substance abuse work is based on an ethically sustainable approach, which focuses on positive self-determination of older people. The Pilke groups focus on dignity, inclusion and coping with everyday life - achieving good aging despite the hardships of life. The challenge is to resolve the contradiction between precious old age and the drug problem, and to see older people as the best experts of their own lives.

It is important to not moralize taking drugs and that older people are not told what to do. We need to recognize that they can decide on their own and treat them as whole persons, not just as a substance abuse problem. They should not get pressured to stop using drugs, rather they should feel acepted the way they are. Our supportive approach points out the resources they still have and encourages them to find their strengths and interests. We  support them on a partnership level and treat every person according to their individual and personal situation. One important task of our work is to help them to find meaning and purpose in their stage of life. They need a realistic hope for their future and a dream of a better life. 

In order to keep on doing our work with older people struggling with substance abuse, we need your help. Thank you for being part of giving back dignity to older people and supporting them in their situation.

Links:

• Visit the Website of Blue Cross Finland
• Visit us on Facebook
• Read more about the Pilke groups