In collaboration with local social organisations, Marisol Illescas, the councillor for Social Affairs, Inclusion, Family and Older Adults, has introduced a new municipal programme targeting the elderly population of Toledo. This initiative combines cultural activities, excursions, performances, social gatherings, and training workshops, aiming to promote active ageing, strengthen support networks, and combat unwanted loneliness.
Illescas emphasised that this programme addresses an increasingly significant social need. Activities for older adults not only enhance their physical and emotional health but also stimulate cognitive abilities and foster personal relationships, particularly during a life stage where support networks may weaken due to the loss of family or friends. “Each year, the City Council strives to reinforce support for social networks and institutional collaboration with all entities working towards a common goal: improving the emotional health and protective networks of older adults,” she stated.
The councillor highlighted the diverse interests and needs of older adults, making it essential to combine training in new skills with activities that allow them to break free from their daily routines, explore new environments, and share experiences. She noted that excursions and attendance at cultural events serve as tools to stimulate memory, maintain physical activity, and promote personal autonomy. “Travelling and stepping outside the usual environment activate biological and psychological mechanisms that contribute to healthy ageing,” Illescas affirmed.
One of the new features of this edition is the inclusion of activities proposed by other organisations working with older adults in the city, following the collaborative approach the council applies in other areas. Initiatives from the El Tajo Residents' Association and Socializa60, a collective of various older adult associations in Toledo, will be incorporated. Additionally, the Mayores Foundation has designed the promotional materials for this programme, highlighting its work in Castilla-La Mancha, particularly in supporting older adults over 60 who are vulnerable, disabled, or lacking family support.
The municipal programme will offer leisure, cultural, educational, and social activities to cater to the varied interests of older adults. Among the initiatives led by the residents' association are a petanque tournament, a bicycle maintenance workshop, an introductory Lindy Hop class, and a radio workshop with Onda Polígono. The City Council will organise film afternoons featuring documentary screenings at senior centres and a workshop titled ‘Lights, camera, action,’ where participants will learn to create videos and publications.
Digital training will continue to be a key focus, with workshops on using WhatsApp and social media among other tools. The second edition of the ‘Huellas que dejan legado’ gala will also take place, recognising the contributions of exemplary older residents of Toledo. A new afternoon activity will be introduced to create spaces for socialising and community engagement.
The programme will also include a specific meeting for older women to connect with the Women’s Centre and learn about the resources and services available. Cultural outings and excursions will again play a prominent role, with planned destinations including Consuegra, La Puebla de Montalbán, and Madrid, where culture, theatre, and environmental heritage will be highlighted.
Additionally, intergenerational activities, theatrical proposals at the Teatro de Rojas, and magic shows will be included to encourage the exchange of experiences between different generations and strengthen familial and community ties. Another significant change this year is the new registration system, which will be conducted in person at senior centres, responding to requests from the Local Council of Older Adults and the organisations involved.
During the presentation, Pilar Sánchez Conde, a representative of the Mayores Foundation, expressed gratitude to the City Council for the opportunity to collaborate on a programme that shares the goal of enhancing the quality of life for older adults and promoting their social inclusion.
