Revolutionary pilot project empowers elderly in remote areas of Cuneo province

Innovative initiatives enhance independence for elderly in remote areas through pilot project in Cuneo’s mountainous regions.

In an ambitious effort to boost autonomy among non-self-sufficient elderly individuals, particularly those residing in remote mountainous areas and small centers, a pilot project has been launched in the province of Cuneo. Initiated in January 2024, this program is supported by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) under intervention line 1.1.2, involving multiple local entities. The project is spearheaded by the Consorzio Socio-Assistenziale del Cuneese in collaboration with various consortia and cooperatives, aiming to provide comprehensive support through innovative technology and community engagement.

Aim and collaboration of the pilot project

The primary goal of the project is to enhance the independence of elderly individuals who lack self-sufficiency, focusing on those living in isolated and rural areas. The initiative is led by the Consorzio Socio-Assistenziale del Cuneese, collaborating with the Consorzio Monviso Solidale, Consorzio Socio-Assistenziale Alba-Langhe-Roero, Consorzio per i servizi socio-assistenziali del Monregalese, and other regional associations. Additionally, four cooperatives—Valdocco, Proposta 80, Gesac, and Progetto Emmaus—are actively involved, providing resources and expertise to ensure the program’s success.

Multidisciplinary support teams in action

Within the territory of the Consorzio Monviso Solidale, which encompasses areas such as Savigliano, Fossano, and Saluzzo, a multidisciplinary team has been operational for over a year. This team, composed of skilled operators, focuses on assisting elderly individuals with limited autonomy, enabling them to continue living in their own homes. A key aspect of this approach is the weekly visits by case managers, who not only offer assistance but also introduce electronic devices designed to simplify daily life. Assistive technologies, including tablets and smart TVs, facilitate communication with operators and help maintain social connections, thereby reducing isolation risks.

Incorporating advanced technology for safety and monitoring

A significant technological component of the project is the Digital Care Protector, an intelligent watch that continuously monitors vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen saturation, and body temperature. In case of any abnormalities, the device alerts caregivers or medical personnel. Furthermore, a home automation kit equipped with sensors for doors, smoke, carbon monoxide, water, presence, and movement is provided, creating a safe and reassuring environment for the elderly users.

Project management and observed outcomes

The project targets forty non-self-sufficient elderly individuals, identified by social services. The areas of intervention include twenty individuals from the Fossano and Savigliano regions and another twenty from Saluzzo and surrounding valleys. Anna Bergese, an operator from the cooperative Proposta 80 and community manager, emphasizes the program’s significance not only for the beneficiaries but also for the local communities. Cuneo is the first province in Italy to trial such an initiative, which has already demonstrated numerous positive aspects.

Challenges and future prospects

Despite some criticisms mainly related to the complexity of the system, which is still in its initial stages, the project represents a vital step towards improving the psychological, social, and physical well-being of those involved. Regular visits and the opportunity for audio-video contact with operators are key elements that allow the elderly to remain in their homes, avoiding the challenging path towards institutionalization. The positive results are evident in the daily reactions of the users, indicating that the project is on the right track.

The PNRR project 1.1.2 is scheduled to formally conclude on March 31, 2026, marking a significant milestone in supporting elderly individuals facing difficulties in the province of Cuneo.

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