Adopta Un Abuelo builds lasting intergenerational bonds to reduce loneliness among older people

Adopta Un Abuelo builds lasting intergenerational bonds to reduce loneliness among older people | Photo: John Moeses Bauan

Loneliness among older people has become a growing social concern across Europe, closely linked to demographic ageing, urban lifestyles and weakened community ties. In Spain, where the proportion of citizens over 65 continues to rise, unwanted isolation increasingly affects physical health, mental wellbeing and social cohesion. Within this context, Adopta Un Abuelo (Adopt a Grandparent) has consolidated itself as one of the country’s most visible responses to the challenge.

Founded in Spain, the organisation connects young volunteers with elderly people experiencing loneliness, focusing on sustained human relationships rather than short term assistance. By early 2026, the platform had surpassed one million registered users, reflecting both the scale of the problem and the demand for structured ways to address it.

Companionship programmes adapted to real lives

At the heart of Adopta Un Abuelo are its accompaniment programmes, designed to be flexible while maintaining continuity. The in person accompaniment model centres on weekly visits to nursing homes or private residences, where volunteers and older participants share simple activities such as walking, playing cards or conversation. For many seniors, these visits restore a sense of routine and social presence that had gradually faded.

Remote companionship has become a permanent pillar of the initiative. Telephone and video calls, initially developed as an emergency response during the pandemic, now allow people in different cities or countries to form meaningful emotional bonds. This format has proved particularly valuable for elderly people with mobility limitations and for volunteers living abroad. Complementing both approaches are one shot experiences, one off group activities such as cooking workshops, cultural outings or birthday celebrations, offering a low commitment entry point into intergenerational connection.

Technology and methodology behind the human link

The programme relies on a digital platform that uses a matching algorithm to connect volunteers and seniors based on shared interests, hobbies and geographical proximity. This data driven approach improves compatibility and helps relationships develop more naturally. Volunteers receive prior training on communication and ageing, with ongoing support from social workers and psychologists to safeguard the wellbeing of both parties.

A central principle of the initiative is intergenerational exchange. While older participants benefit from company and emotional support, younger volunteers gain insight, perspective and personal learning from lived experience. Internal monitoring indicates improved wellbeing among seniors and higher levels of empathy and civic engagement among volunteers.

Expansion, participation and sustainability

By 2026, Adopta Un Abuelo operates in more than 50 Spanish cities and has expanded internationally, including Portugal and several countries in Latin America. Participation is open to anyone over 18, with minors able to join when accompanied by a parent, through the organisation’s website or mobile application. Funding is secured through donations, volunteer memberships and partnerships with companies and foundations.

As ageing societies place increasing pressure on public care systems, initiatives like this demonstrate how social innovation, volunteering and digital tools can combine to deliver scalable impact. Addressing loneliness through prevention and community engagement aligns with SDG 3, highlighting the role of social connection in wellbeing.

More information and further reading: https://adoptaunabuelo.org