Another district joins project against loneliness - Thuringia's Agathe program fights loneliness for elderly residents living alone

A state-backed program in Thuringia is helping elderly residents combat loneliness and stay independent. Called Agathe, the initiative offers free, personalized advice to those living alone. Since its launch in 2021, around 35,000 seniors have already used the service.

Thuringia currently has about 210,000 people aged 63 and older living alone. In the Weimarer Land district alone, the figure stands at roughly 8,200. From March, trained advisors will begin working in the area to support these residents.

The Agathe program focuses on one-to-one, confidential guidance. Its goal is to help seniors remain in their own homes for as long as possible. More than half of Thuringia's districts and independent cities now take part in the scheme.

Demographic shifts suggest the number of elderly living alone will keep growing. The initiative aims to address this trend by providing practical assistance tailored to individual needs.

The expansion into Weimarer Land marks another step for the Agathe program. With loneliness and isolation a growing concern, the service offers direct support to thousands of older adults. Free and confidential advice remains available to all eligible residents across participating regions.