New neighborhood help in Zwettl: strengthening and relieving the community

New neighborhood help in Zwettl: strengthening and relieving the community

As part of an innovative model, the organization “Zeitkissen” has redefined neighborhood help. This is a form of support that allows people to help each other without having to come from a nursing profession. As Wiesmüller, who is second in charge, emphasizes, it is important to have a broad base. The help offered goes beyond traditional care and ranges from errands to doctor's trips to administrative support.

At the same time, this approach offers relief to the caring relatives. Many sufferers experience the pressure of caring for family members while managing their own lives. Wiesmüller describes his “helper syndrome” humorously, but seriously mentions the need to promote social cohesion in the community. “It is a great instrument to counteract the isolation of old age and the care shortages that we are sliding towards,” says Wiesmüller.

Background and challenges

Demographic change and increasing employment have meant that there is less and less time for family care and support. Time cushion has developed solutions in response to these changes. The need for services for older people, people with disabilities and children is growing. In order to meet this need, the time cushion model was launched, which was founded in Vorarlberg in 2018 and is now also active in Lower Austria.

Access is easy for users: Anyone who needs help can use almost all services, but must first save up hours of time. These hours are financed by a fee of currently nine euros per hour. Almost half of these fees go into an emergency account, which is used to purchase additional services if necessary. Due to the reorganization of family structures and the changes in society as a whole, there are many people who have not yet saved any hours and urgently need help.

Growth and opportunities for participation

There are currently 38 time cushion groups in Austria, twelve of which are located in Lower Austria. The initiative shows great commitment to expanding further; new groups are already being planned. Wiesmüller expresses great joy at the opportunity to introduce this precautionary principle in her home district and thanks the community for the support she has already received.

Anyone interested in getting involved in this social project is cordially invited to take part in an information evening that will take place on November 13th at 6 p.m. in the “Frau Ida” restaurant on Zwettler Hauptplatz. In addition, from January 23rd, regular get-togethers will be held at the Hacker guesthouse to promote exchange and engagement within the community.