[The Munich street work project "Senior citizens visited by experts in the community" (SAVE)-A mixed methods evaluation study].

Abstract

Background: Old age and service centers (ASZ) in Munich offer preventive and care services for older people. As initiating contact with existing support services is a barrier, the street work project "Senior citizens visited by experts in the community" (SAVE) was introduced. Since 2019 SAVE experts have been providing advice to older people who are in public spaces and appear to be in need of support. The aim of our study was to examine the implementation of SAVE to identify recommendations for action.

Method: The SAVE evaluation is based on a mixed methods multistage design with a participatory approach. Firstly, secondary data (SAVE statistics, project documents) were analyzed. In addition, participant observations (n = 4), a focus group (n = 6) and interviews with SAVE experts (n = 4) and ASZ managers (n = 5) were conducted. To integrate the data the respective results were compared, triangulated and jointly interpreted.

Results: According to the statistics (period: January 2020-June 2023) the project reached 1546 people (57% women, 2847 contacts). Common problems identified included physical and mental illnesses, financial difficulties and loneliness. The derived recommendations for action address the following topics: SAVE requirements profile, basic equipment, implementation, orientation phase, public awareness and collegial cooperation.

Conclusion: The SAVE project offers an innovative way of reaching older people in their community by providing information, building relationships, giving on-site counselling and providing additional support. The project can be seen as an important measure to prevent distress among older people.