Andorra Launches Project Radars to Combat Loneliness in Seniors Over 75

The Andorran Ministry of Social Affairs will launch Project Radars in early April to address unwanted loneliness among people over 75 living alone, initially targeting 50 to 60 individuals in Andorra la Vella and Sant Julià de Lòria.

Minister Trini Marín outlined the programme on Tuesday alongside State Secretary Ester Cervós and Socio-Health Services director Montserrat Gil. Drawing from a Barcelona model operational since 2008—adapted via a late-2024 collaboration agreement—the initiative creates community networks of neighbours, local businesses such as pharmacies, bakeries and hairdressers, plus volunteers and professionals. These groups identify early signs of vulnerability like behavioural changes, build trust through weekly volunteer calls, activate alert protocols to notify parish or government staff, and connect seniors to local activities and resources.

Gil explained that while 1,775 people over 75 live alone nationwide—not all needing intervention—the pilot starts small to ensure effective monitoring. Sixteen trained volunteers from home care services, with five more in training, will handle weekly check-ins and referrals. In Andorra la Vella, priority goes to higher-risk neighbourhoods including Mitjavila, Riberaygua, Prada Ramon and Ciutat de Valls; in Sant Julià, cases are more dispersed.

Expansion is planned for Canillo and Ordino by summer, followed by La Massana, Encamp and Escaldes-Engordany once parish surveys conclude. 2025 data record 14,105 residents over 65—16% of the population—with 3,544 living alone. A survey of 4,454 seniors found 325 reporting loneliness at some point. Andorran Red Cross figures show 469 of 774 teleassistance users live alone.

Marín emphasised that Radars complements existing social and health services by strengthening community bonds and belonging, without replacing them. Cervós pointed to Andorra's ageing population and "invisible" isolation, where vulnerable elders often avoid seeking aid. The ministry coordinates through the Radars Table, involving officials, parishes and volunteers for awareness campaigns, detection and engagement—such as retirement home outreach and Sant Jordi recruitment materials. Pharmacies play a key role due to their frequent senior interactions, with any local business able to join. The project also welcomes public volunteers and notes flexibility to assist younger isolated individuals if detected. Partners include the seven parishes, youth and volunteering promotion, and Andorra Telecom providing free phone lines.