Case Study
Mit Miteinander unterwegs (Travelling Together)
Contact name
Senada Bilahic und Fabian Wildner
Institution name
Caritas Stadtteilarbeit Wien
Region & country
Austria, district of lower Austria
Summary
The Nature Park Sparbach organises walks for individuals affected by dementia and their carers, supporting their mental well-being.
This initiative, part of the “Wir 5 im Wienerwald” network, brings together stakeholders, including institutions, communities, and families impacted by dementia, to foster collaboration and alleviate concerns. Meeting three times a year, the network encourages mutual learning, partnerships, and expert guidance on dementia. Krems University supports the initiative by providing expertise and issuing certifications for public entities implementing a “dementia-friendly” system. Key actions include peer-support spaces for caregivers and training on coping strategies. The Nature Park Sparbach has embraced this initiative by launching the “Miteinander unterwegs” project, which enables individuals with dementia and their carers to explore nature together and connect.
Excursions in Naturpark Sparbach, Austria
© Naturpark Sparbach, Susanne Käfer
Excursions in Naturpark Sparbach, Austria
© Naturpark Sparbach, Susanne Käfer
Excursions in Naturpark Sparbach, Austria
© Naturpark Sparbach, Susanne Käfer
Background of the project
The aging population is leading to an increase in health conditions, including dementia, which presents a significant challenge as available facilities are often insufficient to meet the growing demand.
Recognizing this pressing need, the five municipalities within the Biosphere Reserve Wienerwald (Mauerbach, Gablitz, Purkersdorf, Tullnerbach and Wolfsgraben) have embraced the idea of becoming a dementia-friendly region.
Many relatives find themselves in the position of caring for family members without sufficient support, resulting in emotional burdens that extend beyond practical concerns.
Caregivers often experience feelings of isolation, overwhelm, and grief, while individuals with dementia confront a gradual loss of their abilities, which creates a significant emotional toll on both themselves and their families.
Solution and actions taken
By committing to the development of a dementia-friendly region, these municipalities aimed to foster collaboration and establish partnerships across various actors and sectors within the community. This approach not only seeks to alleviate the challenges faced by caregivers but also enhances social cohesion.
Under the motto Discovering the world together, two excursions were organised.
The first excursion took place in the Sparbach Nature Park and the second was held at Wolfsgraben Zoo. These outings provided participants with unforgettable moments of joy and relaxation. The welcoming atmosphere of these excursions creates a space where everyone feels included and safe. The focus is not on consumption or hectic schedules, but rather on shared experiences, support, and meaningful exchange.
The cost for each excursion was approximately €250.
Even if the project has concluded, the activities have continued.
Other institutions or parties involved
Caritas Vienna neighborhood activities (Stadtteilarbeit der Caritas Wien) – project lead
Wir 5 im Wienerwald – project partners – municipalities
Sparbach Nature Park – destination as part of Miteinander unterwegs (Travelling together)
Wolfsgraben Zoo – destination as part of Miteinander unterwegs (Travelling together)
Results
A strong network was developed throughout the project period, which enabled the initiation of a new project as a “carrying community.
Challenges
The primary obstacle was ensuring mobility for the clients and their relatives in reaching the destinations for the excursions.
Our solution was to organise a private shuttle service to transport all participants.
Lessons learned
The coordination team should comprise a group of experts skilled in collaboration.
It is essential to have individuals whom clients and their relatives can trust. Additionally, the process should be straightforward for clients and their families to navigate, and the setting must align with the needs of all involved.
Contact name
Senada Bilahic und Fabian Wildner
Institution name
Caritas Stadtteilarbeit Wien
Website(s)
