A new initiative in Veliky Novgorod is aimed at helping seniors maintain their health, energy levels, and social connections. Spearheaded by Dr Viatcheslav Kantor, an honorary citizen of Veliky Novgorod, the project will include a rehabilitation centre in the city and primary care facilities in three district centres (Staraya Russa, Borovichi and Pestovo). Novgorod region governor Andrey Nikitin has expressed support for the project.
Plans are for the rehabilitation centre in Veliky Novgorod to provide primary, outpatient and inpatient care for over 16,000 patients each year (6% of all residents of Novgorod region over 60).
The project includes installation of diagnostic, medical and rehabilitation equipment (including a powered exoskeleton), repairs to existing medical facilities, and landscaping of areas designated for exercise therapy.
“The inability of any human community to support its weakest members may eventually lead to the complete extinction of that community. Supporting the weakest and most vulnerable is true charity. To my deep regret, seniors traditionally receive the smaller share of care because they are perceived as the “weakest link” in the chain of charitable activity. When we change our attitude to the elderly, we prove that our society is mature and sustainable”, Dr Kantor emphasised.
Novgorod region governor Nikitin commented on the project: “The number of people over 60 is increasing in Russia. In our region, one out of every three residents is already in this age group. It is important to keep seniors in Novgorod region healthy and active as long as possible. The diagnostic and medical equipment and modern methods used at the rehabilitation centre will help us provide that care”.