Using the services of the Comprehensive Intervention for Psychogeriatric Support results in a significant reduction in the distance and time spent by residents of remote islands and drylands in order to access mental health services.

The program is supported and funded by the Ministry of Health and implemented in collaboration with the Eginit Hospital, Alexandroupoli General Hospital and Patras General Hospital, and has already been joined by 441 beneficiaries with an average age of 72 years.

“The Comprehensive Intervention Program for Psychogeriatric Support complements a number of other activities of the Ministry of Health to support older people living in remote areas,” Deputy Health Minister Zoe Rapti said at a conference hosted by the Syros General Hospital. the topic “Let’s develop relationships – Presentation of the Integrated Psychogeriatric Support Program – OPPSY”.

These actions:

• A network of telepsychiatry and telemedicine that is already operating in remote areas of our country, such as Kastelorizo ​​and Symi.

• The 1102 Dementia Helpline, which provides counseling and psychosocial support for people with dementia and memory problems, their caregivers and healthcare professionals.

• Creation of new mental health structures to support patients with dementia – Alzheimer’s disease, such as 11 day centers, 10 memory clinics, eight boarding schools and a mobile unit for dementia – Alzheimer’s disease. Two day care centers are already operating for the treatment of these diseases at Alexandroupolis University General Hospital and Heraklion University General Hospital, Crete.

“In this way, we demonstrate in practice our respect for the Third Age, the root that has nourished and continues to nourish with its vital contribution to our society. So that no one is left alone, no one is left behind,” Ms. Rapti emphasized.