Germany offered me another perspective of what it means to grow old. They are a significantly developed country with easy public transport that is accessible. Additionally, they offer some long-term care insurance to all seniors. They also have a very diverse population with lots of migration to Germany.
Below you will find my reflections from some organizations/persons I’ve met across my time in Germany:
Schwulenberatung Berlin Reflections
This organization is a leader in providing resources to LGBTI* older adults in Berlin and the general LGBTI* community. They have created a Diversity Seal to ensure organizations are offering inclusive care. Even for me, who is not German, they can support me, and I am grateful for the insight and conversations I have had with them. Click the link above for my more detailed reflection.
Website: https://schwulenberatungberlin.de/
The video above is about the housing project of eight older gay men living together. This was an interview done in the past and emulates more information.
Living Diversity at Südkreuz
This housing project is opening up in the summer of 2023 for the LGBTI* community to live in an intergenerational model. Check out my reflections on this innovative housing project for older adults and the community overall. Would you want to live here?
Stephanus gGmbH Dr. Harnisch Reflection
This organization is another care home I visited during my time in Berlin. Click the link above to learn more about my visit.
Deutsches Zentrum für Altersfragen (DZA or German Centre of Gerontology) Reflections
I spent the afternoon with two researchers from the center. They provided me with great insight into how the long-term care works in Germany. Reflection (Pending)
FutureShape SensFloor Reflections
During my time in Munich, I planned to visit FutureShape to learn more about SensFlor. It is a smart floor that allows you to be informed if an older adult is roaming around the room without needing to have a camera. Click the link above for my reflections.
Arnsberg Reflections
I came to Arnsberg to visit the Office of Future Age directed by Mr. Martin Polenz. During my week-long visit, I toured several initiatives spearheaded by them and heard about future projects. Check out my reflections above.
Main Findings:
We must work harder to ensure that older adults receive inclusive care. For now, you can read my above reflections.
I will upload my final main findings report in early August 2023.
