It is quite natural that the society in which we live is youth-oriented. We are happy to be part of a young community, and it is a pleasure for us to watch children grow. In contrast, aging is often perceived as a sign of weakness, something that slows us down and is not associated with happiness. There are more and more elderly people who struggle with depression, feelings of deprivation, and loneliness. What is even more painful and sad is when a person’s departure from this world takes place in a cold hospital room without the presence of their loved ones.
When it comes to discussing issues such as aging, old age, retirement, or dying, our society tends to avoid talking about them thoroughly. We do not like to discuss topics that we do not consider positive and optimistic. We don’t like to ponder the fact that one day we will all get old and won’t have as much strength and energy as we do now. We don’t like to admit that every beginning has its end.
The Josef Novak Foundation was founded in 2016 with the purpose of providing comprehensive support to elderly people. Our aim is to enhance the health and social conditions of seniors living in the Czech Republic. The main areas of the Foundation’s support focus on:
- Development of palliative care in the Czech Republic
- Financial and material help for hospices and homes for the elderly in the Czech Republic
- Assistance for elderly people within the health, social, financial, and educational spheres
- Encouraging elderly people to lead active lives
- Research on issues concerning aging
Our dream is not only to support seniors but also to raise public awareness of the topics of aging and palliative care. Although these stories and topics may be rather sad, we must bear in mind that they are an integral part of our lives.
Let’s celebrate old age with the same fervor with which we celebrate youth.