# Elderly loneliness prevention initiatives in the Netherlands > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/elderly-loneliness-prevention-initiatives-in-the-netherlands > Updated: 2026-10-18T19:00:35.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Efforts to address elderly loneliness and social isolation in the Netherlands have manifested through both national initiatives and local foundation launches. In late September, the Nationaal Ouderenfonds reported that roughly 45% of elderly people in the Netherlands experience loneliness, often feeling like a burden to society. In response, the organization partnered with the cinema chain Pathé for a ‘Week against Loneliness’ to encourage volunteers to act as ‘film buddies’ for seniors. By mid-October, the Gouden Vrienden foundation was established in Dijk en Waard to provide similar support through social activities and organized outings. Collaborating with the Pieter Raat Stichting, the foundation utilizes volunteers to facilitate community engagement, including specialized activities such as wheelchair cycling trips. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-18: Gouden Vrienden foundation launches to support elderly in Dijk en Waard The Gouden Vrienden foundation has launched in Dijk en Waard to combat elderly loneliness by organizing social activities and outings with the support of local volunteers. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gouden-vrienden-foundation-launches-to-support-elderly-in-dijk-en-waard ### 2026-09-24: Nationaal Ouderenfonds and Pathé launch initiative to combat elderly loneliness The Nationaal Ouderenfonds reports that 45% of Dutch seniors face loneliness. In response, Pathé and the fund have launched a ‘film buddy’ initiative to encourage social outings. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nationaal-ouderenfonds-and-path-launch-initiative-to-combat-elderly-loneliness --- Cite as: Elderly loneliness prevention initiatives in the Netherlands. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/elderly-loneliness-prevention-initiatives-in-the-netherlands