Italy launches regional initiatives to support caregivers

Various Italian regions and institutions are launching initiatives to support caregivers, particularly those assisting oncology and neurodegenerative disease patients, in observance of European Caregiver Day.

In Piedmont, the Rete Oncologica is organizing events in Cuneo, Asti, and Vercelli. These programs include the “Villaggio del Caregiver” in Asti, which provides access to multidisciplinary medical teams, and specialized sessions in Vercelli and Cuneo focused on informing and supporting those accompanying patients through oncological treatments.

In Milan, the University of Milano-Bicocca is hosting discussions on dementia and social-health services. Meanwhile, in Parma, Progetto Itaca is launching a volunteer training course for mental health support, and the University of Parma is offering training for facilitators of self-help groups for caregivers.

Other regional efforts include the “Il Filo di Arianna” project in Satriano di Lucania, which supports families dealing with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s through home assistance training and social workshops. In Friuli Venezia Giulia, discussions have also focused on enhancing pediatric palliative care through the European “Hopeforkids” project.