The South Aegean Social Inclusion Observatory continues its research visits to associations and facilities in Syros. More specifically, an interview was conducted with the President of the Syros Care P
rovision and Home Nursing Association, Mr. Nikos Albanopoulos. During the interview, the progress of the Association was discussed, which began operating in 1995 as a citizens’ initiative to provide care for people who, after being discharged from the hospital, require assistance at home. As mentioned, home nursing services, as well as the loan of medical equipment, are provided free of charge, covering the needs of beneficiaries regardless of age. Concurrently, future goals were discussed, such as the need to hire a general duties employee to support the work of the nursing staff, alongside the financial challenges faced. It is worth noting that it constitutes the largest social association in Syros, counting 1,200 registered members.
Additionally, a visit was conducted at ‘Agios Panteleimon’ Syros Nursing Home and Poorhouse, where we spoke with the President of the Association, Mr. Nikitas Gryparis, in order to document the outstanding work of elderly care carried out on the island. With 152 years of experience and contribution, the facility constitutes a safe environment, ensuring 24-hour nursing care and medical monitoring for the accommodated elderly, psychosocial support, personal care, and creative engagement through activities, and above all, a dignified standard of living. Among other matters, the daily needs and contemporary challenges faced by the recognized charitable association in managing the facility (with a capacity of 58 beds) were discussed, along with the importance of social solidarity for the continuation of this invaluable work.
Furthermore, the Observatory visited the Cyclades Prefecture Association of Friends, Carers & Persons with Dementia and Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases ‘Agkalia Mnimis’ and held a discussion with the President, Mr. Apostolos Efkarpidis, and the General Secretary of the Association, Ms. Nancy Korotzidou. Having commenced its operations in 2025, the association envisions an inclusive society, as well as an improved quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Currently, it numbers 400 members and aims at raising awareness, early diagnosis, care, social integration, and inclusion, while simultaneously mitigating the psycho-emotional and social burden on caregivers. In addition to the above, the issues they face were discussed, alongside their multifaceted impact on society.
In conclusion, the Observatory would like to thank all the participants in the research!
(Texts and photographs: Theodora Symeonoglou & Konstantina Kourkoumari)
