ABOUT
PEER-TRAIN
Challenges for the people 50+
Population aging represents one of the most significant challenges for the European Union in the 21st century, which will have irreversible effects on all aspects of society. According to the GREEN PAPER ON AGEING, over the last five decades, life expectancy at birth has increased by approximately 10 years for both men and women. The modernization of various services, integration into the digital world, and the promotion of social involvement are also essential and pressing aspects in the field of active aging. As a result of demographic changes in the 21st century, new needs and demands have emerged that require a response. The role of activity has been redefined, and maintaining a high quality of life has become important even in older age. To ensure successful aging, it is crucial to engage in meaningful work, maintain physical and mental activity, and nurture social interactions. However, the recent pandemic has introduced unprecedented and unexpected situations, leading to drastic lifestyle changes. This has brought about even more challenges for individuals aged 50+.
The importance of peer-mentors and their role
It is necessary to provide specialized services. Elderly people require an age-friendly approach in counseling, educational services, and the working environment, while also benefiting from increased accessibility to their peers. Based on the needs analysis conducted in partner countries, peer mentors can play an exceptionally important role in facilitating active aging. This role extends to the areas of lifelong learning, promoting continued employment, and nurturing social relationships. Despite facing similar life situations, these individuals often possess stronger coping strategies and may even have professional experience, enabling them to serve as examples and sources of inspiration for others. They contribute to helping people lead meaningful and active lives.
Main objectives of the project
By engaging in Peer Mentor Training, which draws upon international experience, peer mentors can refine their skills and effectively share their experiences with individuals aged 50 and above. To accomplish this goal, it’s imperative to consider the expectations of the 21st century and employ appropriate methods and techniques.
Main objectives of the project are:
- To enhance the competences of peer mentors for individuals aged 50 and above, aligning with the demands of the 21st century, through innovative solutions and digital technologies
- To provide assistance for the employment and lifelong learning of individuals aged 50 and above, as well as other socially beneficial activities, with the goal of attaining the highest attainable independence and quality of life. This is achieved through the provision of peer-mentoring services that promote a healthy lifestyle.
- To cultivate the skills and competences required for successful aging among individuals aged 50+, fostering a dignified, active, and sustainable lifestyle in the 21st century. This is accomplished through a flexible blended-learning approach built upon contemporary peer mentoring practices.
- To promote and enhance international cooperation among organizations offering social, counseling, mentoring, and educational services for adults, as well as to establish partner networks.
Target group
The primary target audience of the project comprises professionals, individuals aged 50 and above possessing professional knowledge, work experience, and competences. These individuals should be suitably enthusiastic, confident, motivated, and interested in taking on the role of peer mentors. Additionally, the project also encompasses mentees – individuals aged 50 and above who are interested in seeking assistance from more experienced peers across diverse domains.
Partners
The project involves six partner institutions operating in the domains of counseling, mentoring services, adult education, research, and digital skills development. These institutions hail from six different countries: Germany, the Slovak Republic, Hungary, Portugal, Bulgaria, and Poland.
