To improve access to quality health and social services for elderly people living in rural communities.
Most Americans are unfamiliar with Moldova and its complicated history. In many ways, it is a forgotten country. Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe. Since gaining independence upon the collapse of the Soviet Union, nearly twenty five years ago, the country has struggled to implement successful economic reforms. Moldova’s economy is still in transition, and those living in rural areas are disproportionately affected. Rural Moldovans make up 80% of the country’s poor and have lower levels of educational attainment than their urban counterparts. Widespread unemployment, high poverty rates, outdated infrastructure, and lack of access to quality health care services have left many Moldovans eager for change.
Among the groups most affected by Moldova’s underfunded health care system are the elderly and chronically-ill. Nearly 25% of working-aged Moldovans emigrate to Western Europe to earn money, oftentimes leaving their families behind. Since long-term care has traditionally been provided by family members, many older citizens are left without adequate support. The government and other organizations recognize that improving the quality and efficiency of health care is important not only for the well-being of Moldovans, but for the country’s growth and stability.
Diaconia-CRD, along with our local partner CASMED, is working to address the physical and mental health needs of isolated seniors and chronically-ill people living in the rural north of Moldova. By striving to ensure that Moldova’s most vulnerable citizens have access to quality care, we hope to build stronger and healthier communities.
CASMED, our in-country partner organization, provides much needed support to these underserved populations to improve public health. CASMED’s program is based on the “home-model” of care which allows nurses to give accessible, comprehensive, and compassionate care to their patients. In addition to providing acute and long-term care, nurses and social workers traverse unpaved roads to deliver medications and groceries; and cook, clean, and wash clothes. This holistic approach helps build a sense of well-being and connection, reducing the isolation felt by those they serve.
Training seminars that educate nurses and social workers on how to better support their patients are an important part of CASMED’s program. By working closely with local governments to increase their participation and accountability, CASMED hopes to cultivate a greater sense of responsibility authorities feel towards the vulnerable members of their communities. In addition to providing direct financial support, Diaconia organizes capacity building workshops so that CASMED can expand their reach and continue their important work.
Learn more about our work in Moldova in this video:
