Potencjał lokalnych instytucji we wspieraniu starzejącego się społeczeństwa – w świetle opinii seniorów

The increasing proportion of elderly individuals in Polish society is a real phenomenon. It gives rise to the need to deepen knowledge about the role and significance of local social institutions in supporting seniors citizens. This article presents the results of a survey conducted among 85 individuals attending the Daily Social Welfare Home (n=34) and Senior+ Club (n=51) in Białystok. In addition, an observation method was used to triangulate the data and broaden the interpretive context. Senior respondents indicated that these institutions (Daily Social Welfare Home and Senior+ Club) positively impact their functioning in the following areas: adaptive-social, integrative-activating, compensatory-reducing, educational-formative, and psychological. Participation in organized activities contributed to an improvement in the mental state of 83.5% of respondents and the physical condition of 92.9%. The vast majority of respondents (87.1%) felt that the facility provided important support in meeting their key needs. These findings confirm the significant role of local support institutions in assisting seniors and highlight the need to expand the support network for the elderly, particularly in areas where such facilities are lacking.