In Taiwan’s Nantou County, Changhua Township, there is a community called “Yushi Community,” formerly known as Niushixi, nestled around the foothills of Qialaoshan. Over the years, the community has been facing challenges such as aging population, an increase in elderly people with dementia, and the migration of young people, leading to intergenerational caregiving issues. To address these challenges, the Yushi Community Development Association has been utilizing the “Diversified Employment Development Program” from the Ministry of Labor in recent years.
This program provides an opportunity to access human resources and involves collaboration with association volunteers to jointly develop local care and cultural industries. The initiatives include discovering talents among the elderly in the community, such as traditional cooking skills, handcrafted papermaking, and gardening, allowing the older generation in the community to contribute back and make a difference. Through these efforts, the Yushi Community aims to strengthen the sense of community and support the well-being of its residents.
By combining resources and expertise, the association and volunteers are working together to create a supportive environment for the elderly population in the community. This collaborative approach not only addresses the challenges posed by an aging population and increasing number of elderly individuals with dementia but also fosters a sense of pride and connection among the residents. The focus on developing local care and cultural industries not only benefits the elderly by showcasing their skills and knowledge but also enriches the community as a whole. Through these efforts, the Yushi Community is paving the way for intergenerational cooperation and sustainable development.