Against loneliness

Neos want “Jassen on sick leave”

Playing cards instead of sitting at home alone.(Bild: Mathis Fotografie)

The Vorarlberg Neos want to counteract the loneliness of older people and are calling on the state government to provide appropriate services. 

The Neos are drawing attention to themselves in the state election campaign with their call for "Jassen auf Krankenschein" (playing cards on a sickness certificate) for senior citizens. A corresponding parliamentary motion includes the demand for nationwide day care services, as the party announced on Tuesday. According to the Pinks, doctors should draw the attention of isolated or lonely people to these services, for example as part of preventive medical check-ups.

Such services would promote health and independence in old age, Neos club leader and social spokesperson Johannes Gasser was convinced: "Loneliness and social isolation are among the greatest health risks." He proposes a pilot project to combat loneliness in old age, in which day centers, day care and low-threshold facilities are offered nationwide. Doctors would then refer people to these facilities and those affected could be invited directly to various activities such as playing cards together.

According to Gasser, additional structures are needed so that those affected can be referred. He is therefore calling on the state government to promote "Jassen auf Krankenschein" as a project.