Circulos de Abuelos (Grandparent's Circles) - Cuba

Many such 'Circles' have evolved over the years with the elderly as leaders & members. A well-integrated network of community action by ageing members of the population, the 'Circles' often include other family members in exercise programmes, workshops, cultural events & outings. Part of the 'Circles' programme is having their elder members take part in public discussions & school visits, where their wisdom is called upon to help with such challenges as "rebellious adolescents". Interpersonal communication is the binding force behind the 7500+ groups successfully formed.

Ageing, Population, Rights

Each 'Circles' committee is independent & self-supporting; "they have official status & act as first referral points for health & other public services". In addition to the Circulos de Abuelos, there is a system of Casas de Abuelos (grandparent's houses), or highly developed day centres. They offer many support services "from hospital functions to advice, bathing & therapy activities". These chiefly autonomous centres are run by elderly members & work with a professional services panel & an administrator. A back-up service for those unable to attend the Circulos de Abuelos or the Casas de Abuelos is called "Attention to the Elder Living Alone at Home". Interestingly, it is the ageing who provide most of the caregiving in this organisation & identify with the needs of those they are serving. The wisdom & experience of the elderly benefit Cuba's society in part of the 'Circles' programme of public discussion & school visits. The ageing help with "rebellious adolescents", re-educating the labour market, and generally, offer their services where needed.