Promote Healthy Aging in Finland

In Finland, as in other Western countries, the population is aging. In 2019, 22 percent of the Finnish population was over 65, and it is estimated that by 2030, one in four Finns will be over 65 (statistics of Finland 2015 and 2020). At the same time, since 1985 there is an increase of alcohol consumption among the 65 to 69 year olds. Even though the increase of alcohol among women is bigger, men still consume more alcohol overall (Helldán and Helakorpi 2014).

Research from the A-Clinic Foundation shows the challenges of access to substance abuse services for older people. Since 65 to 90 year olds have different needs and problems, they need adapted treatment. Older people who drink, are often isolated from their families and friends and struggle with loneliness, which affects their drinking behavior. Further older people deal with problems such as memory impairment, impaired alcohol tolerance and medication, self-determination problems and stigma. Shame and guilt about one’s alcohol use, is also a common issue, which hinders them from getting help.

These facts show how important support services are, especially for older people. To tackle this problem, the Pilke groups are active for 20 years now. In cooperation with other NGOs and municipalities, the Pilke groups organize different activities for older people all over Finland. They aim for inclusion and participation of older people who struggle with substance abuse. Further the Pilke groups empower older people to manage their every day life and help them to reduce alcohol and drug consumption.

In order to provide these services in the future, we need your help. We warmly welcome everything you give to support the Pilke groups!

Sources:

• Statistics of Finland 2015
• Helldán A. & Helakorpi 2014 
• Koivula, Vilkko, Tigerstedt, Kkuuari and Pajala Satu. 2015    

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