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Health conference in Emsland: Ideas against loneliness for seniors!
On September 13th, 2025, a health conference took place in Emsland to address loneliness among seniors and promote innovative solutions.
Health conference in Emsland: Ideas against loneliness for seniors!
In the Emsland district, around 170 participants recently gathered at Hagen’s Hotel in Haren to take part in a health conference. The occasion was the 30th anniversary of the Advisory Board for Senior Citizens. The conference had the central aim of combating loneliness and promoting the health of older people through various measures. District Administrator Marc-André Burgdorf opened the event with a welcoming speech in which he emphasized the commitment and diversity of ideas in Emsland.
A highlight of the conference was the interactive platform “DenkBar”, which enabled participants to record ideas for overcoming loneliness. In the afternoon, these approaches were deepened in another “DenkBar”. “The results will be published online and should serve as an invitation to participate in the municipalities,” explained Head of Social Affairs Dr. Sigrid Kraujuttis, who drew a positive conclusion from the event.
Specialist lectures and approaches to combat loneliness
Two insightful lectures were also given as part of the conference. Dr. Christoph Hutter spoke about the risks of loneliness for society as a health problem, while Sabine Sütterlin emphasized the importance of “third places” for the participation and community of older people. These issues are even more relevant considering that the global health organization has recognized the serious effects of social isolation and loneliness on the health of older people ZHAW.
Studies show that loneliness leads to serious behavioral changes in seniors. These include less exercise, higher smoking rates and poorer sleep, all of which have a negative impact on quality of life. Lonely people also have a mortality risk that is up to a third higher than that of their socially active counterparts AOK.
Competition for innovative solutions
Another part of the conference was the launch of a new competition to award innovative projects against loneliness. The duration of this competition extends until January 15, 2026. Those interested can find out more on the Emsland website emsland.de.
In summary, it can be said that the mixture of lectures, discussion groups and creative ideas enriched the participants. “We invite everyone to participate in the continuation of these ideas in the municipalities,” said Dr. Sigrid Kraujuttis.
The need for measures to reduce loneliness and social isolation is undeniable. Interventions such as the “Befriending Intervention” offer opportunities for emotional support and could improve the well-being of everyone involved ZHAW. Ultimately, this could help to sustainably increase the quality of life of older people.