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| Project: | Development of Prevention and Psycho-social Assistance of Mental Health Problems in Elderly Populations |
| Program Area: | Psychogeriatrics |
| Country: | Georgia |
| Status: | Completed |
| Date: | June 2006 to February 2008 |
| Donor(s): | Cordaid |
Through its small grants program, GIP-Tblisi funded the NGO AMAGI, a Georgian NGO created to facilitate and improve psychiatric and psychosocial assistance to elderly populations in Georgia. Due to the current Georgian reality of high unemployment and symbolic pensions, the quality of life and psychological condition of elderly populations has markedly decreased. Physically and mentally healthy elderly populations have become socially marginal, with decreased self-esteem. They are also now at high risk of developing depressive disorders and other serious mental health problems.
With GIP funding, AMAGI ran activities including melotherapy, nondirect group psychotherapy, learning activities, and occupational therapy. Staff were also trained in specific aspects of gerontopsychology, which facilitated relations with elderly populations. The objectives of the project were to ameliorate the quality of life among the elderly and create new forms of psychosocial support (focusing on increasing self-esteem and social integration) among elderly people who require additional support. Furthermore, the project sought to enhance public awareness and further understanding of issues that the elderly face. The project also involved a training program for professionals of geriatric services.