Silver Academy

Project Overview:

The Estonia-Latvia border regions are facing similar demographic and social challenges, including an ageing population, rural depopulation and social isolation of seniors. The Silver Academy programme provides a platform for people aged 60+ from the Setomaa and Smiltene regions to build new connections and friendships while participating in joint workshops and study visits.

At least 24 seniors from both regions will take part in the programme and gain new knowledge and practical skills that support healthy and active lifestyles and help them adapt to digital society. In addition, at least 10 municipal specialists and community leaders working with seniors will exchange experiences and jointly develop new approaches for engaging seniors in rural communities.

Project Objective

The project aims to improve the well-being, social inclusion and active participation of seniors in the Setomaa and Smiltene regions. Through learning activities, exchange of experience and cross-border cooperation, the project seeks to reduce social isolation, strengthen community engagement and support healthy and active ageing.

Key Activities

• Implementation of the Silver Academy programme for seniors aged 60+.
• Organisation of joint workshops and study visits for participants from Estonia and Latvia.
• Organisation of two exchange of experience visits for municipal specialists and community leaders working with seniors.
• Sharing of best practices and development of new approaches for activating seniors in rural communities.
• Organisation of eight cross-border events involving seniors and professionals.
• Graduation event celebrating participant achievements and strengthened connections between the two communities.

Expected Results:

• Improved well-being and social inclusion of seniors in the Setomaa and Smiltene regions.
• Stronger social connections and friendships among participating seniors.
• Improved knowledge and practical skills supporting healthy and active ageing.
• Enhanced cooperation and exchange of good practices between specialists working with seniors.
• A foundation for long-term cross-border cooperation in the field of senior well-being.