SLOVENIA'S 5 CORE VALUES

These change even more as people approach the golden age of life that old age brings with it. 

Many people look forward to their older years with trepidation, as older people are often marginalised, but this should not be the case, as we can help each other to have a better life. 

Not long ago, an elderly couple told me that they are finding it harder and harder to do housework, as they are not as strong as they used to be. It may or may not have been pure coincidence that shortly after our conversation I learned about the project Young for the elderly, which the Municipality of Ravne na Koroškem has been promoting since 2012. 

Young volunteers help senior citizens with various daily tasks. Last year, seven students from Ravne Secondary School and twenty-one students from Ravne High School participated in the project under the watchful eye of their mentors Metka Čebulj and Sonja Mravljak (Janja Kogelnik filled in for her during her absence). 

"Students help lonely elderly people with tasks that are harder for them to do on their own. This can include grocery shopping, light housework, taking out the rubbish and seasonal chores," said project manager Andreja Jezernik from the Municipality of Ravne na Koroškem.

This means that young volunteers never run out of things to do, whatever the time of year. In spring, they help out in the garden as needed, and in winter, many of them grab a shovel and shovel snow. They also help the elderly with the technological conundrums of using smartphones and computers. 

It is worth noting that many older people face loneliness. This is another pressing problem in today's society that should not be overlooked. This is why volunteers also visit the elderly once a week at the local retirement home, which is very welcome for the bonding process. 

We should not ignore the fact that different generations contribute to our society in different ways. The elderly pass on knowledge and invaluable life lessons and wisdom to the young. This treasure trove of rich experience can be an excellent starting point for the young, while the elderly themselves can help the old with their energy, fresh ideas and youthful enthusiasm. 

I sincerely hope that more and more projects of this kind will be launched over time, as real life does not take place on smartphones and electronic devices, which often suck young people (and others) in, but in genuine relationships with fellow human beings, which, with mutual support, can shine as a first-class school for life.

Mateja Sekavčnik, 16.6.2025