Ageing well in the mountains of Uri

The statement "We are getting older and older" also applies to the mountain regions of Uri. According to forecasts by the Federal Statistical Office, the proportion of over-65s in the permanent resident population of the canton of Uri will increase sharply by 2025. In addition to higher life expectancy and baby boomers reaching AHV age, the emigration of younger generations is also contributing to an increased proportion of residents aged 65 and over. This development brings with it various challenges that are particularly pronounced in mountain communities.

Health is a key factor in ageing well. "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity" (WHO). It encompasses the mental, physical, social and spiritual dimensions. Health is also a result of the interactions between people and their environment, which is constantly changing.

This project involves collecting data on the older population in the mountain communities of Uri, in particular qualitative data in the form of interviews. The intention is to create a kind of generational biography. From this, multipliable recommendations for action at cantonal level and concrete measures are to be proposed and implemented at municipal level so that the conditions for "ageing well in the Uri mountain region" can be maintained or even improved.

The project is being carried out under the leadership of Health Promotion Uri. The "Cultures of the Alps" Institute is participating as a research partner.