Awards Ceremony Held at Solingen Clinic for Self-Help Achievements
In the heart of Solingen, a city known for its rich history and vibrant community, self-help groups are making a significant impact on the lives of its residents. The recent Self-Help and Health Day at the City Hospital Solingen saw three self-help groups, including the Bergisch Land Histamine Group and Karden, receive the Self-Help Award.
Prof. Dr. med. Thomas Standl, the medical director of the City Hospital, emphasized the importance of self-help groups in providing a platform for affected people to find comfort, support, and share valuable tips. For those dealing with chronic conditions or social challenges, self-help groups offer a space to connect with others who understand their struggles, providing emotional support and practical advice.
One such group, the Bergisch Land Histamine Group, has been supporting people with histamine intolerance in the region for eleven years. With around 180 members, the group has been instrumental in raising awareness, providing coping strategies, and advocating for affected persons in local healthcare. Recently, Barbara Bontemps handed over the leadership of the group to Laura Funke, ensuring its continued success.
Karden, a self-help group for Turkish-background caring relatives, also received the Self-Help Award. Unlike the German community, the Turkish community does not traditionally rely on external support services for care of older family members. Karden, which means Snowdrop in Turkish, is filling this gap, providing a much-needed platform for support and advice.
The Digital Guides, a team of three committed individuals, help, explain, and support older people in dealing with digital media. Through their work, seniors no longer have to fear modern technology. Dagmar Eickenberg from the Health Department of the city stated that the Digital Guides explain smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more, making digital life more accessible for everyone.
The Digital Guides are planning to develop a training course and are in need of new Digital Guides. Tim Kurzbach, the mayor of Solingen, honoured the Bergisch Land Histamine Group with the Self-Help Award for the successful handover of leadership, and Nicole Backes, head physician of geriatrics at the City Hospital, was happy to present the Self-Help Award to Karden.
These self-help groups are shining examples of the power of community in addressing health and social challenges. They demonstrate that with support, understanding, and a shared commitment, we can overcome obstacles and improve the lives of those around us.
In the realm of science and health-and-wellness, the Digital Guides, a team dedicated to bridging the gap between seniors and digital technology, are making significant strides in promoting mental health by empowering older individuals to embrace modern technology with confidence. On the other hand, Karden, a self-help group prioritizing mental health and emotional support for Turkish-background caring relatives, is fostering unity within the community by addressing the unique needs of the Turkish community regarding care of older family members.
