Europe is facing a demographic shift: as life expectancy increases, the number of people living with disabilities into old age is growing rapidly. Statistics show that 75% of people with intellectual disabilities are now in the 40-60 age group, and the trend is increasing.
However, these emerging challenges are not being met by care services and professionals. Many still view people with disabilities through a static lens, failing to anticipate or address the natural progression of ageing. This gap creates significant risks, including inappropriate services, isolation and reduced quality of life.
The GOLD project is a direct response to these challenges. By bridging the expertise of the disability and aged care sectors, the project aims to innovate and equip professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to ensure that people with disabilities age with dignity, autonomy and the right to plan their lives.
The GOLD project aims to meet the growing needs of ageing people with disabilities by providing essential support to professionals and family carers in the disability and older people’s services sector. Its main objectives include
- Empowering informal carers and professionals: The project aims to provide comprehensive training for formal and informal carers and others who support people with disabilities. This training will focus on equipping those working in the disability and older adult care sector with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively address the complex needs of older adults with disabilities.
- Promoting inclusion and dignity: A key objective of the project is to promote social inclusion, ensure self-determination and uphold the dignity of people with disabilities as they age. By improving support and ensuring their right to live independently, the project will help people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives as they age.
- Raising awareness: The project also aims to highlight the specific challenges faced by older adults with disabilities. Awareness-raising initiatives will engage professionals, families, carers and the wider public to promote greater understanding and encourage the creation of a more inclusive and supportive society for ageing people with disabilities.