Dying of Loneliness - Rayne Stroebel, activist for the elderly.

Rayne Stroebel is an activist for the elderly. In this episode we speak about the problem of institutionalizing the aged in care homes and retirement villages, our perceptions of what it means to be elderly and understanding the dignity off those with dementia . Rayne Stroebel (55) tells his story about why he is so passionate about older people.

His business GEACTEC provides contract services to the elderly and care homes which improve the quality of life of the people living there.  GERATEC believes in creating an environment where older people can enjoy a “life worth living”  based on the principles of relationship directed support and care. It strives to enhance well-being through a constant search for the best and most innovative products and services which create the best quality of life.

Rayne is also the regional representative in South Africa of The Eden Alternative a small, not-for-profit organisation making a big difference in the world.  It started in the USA and the core belief is that ageing should be a continued stage of development and growth, rather than a period of decline. Building on this thinking, the approach affirms that care is not a one-way street but, rather, a collaborative partnership.

The Eden Alternative aims to redesign the experience of ageing around the world. The bulk of its work to date has been in de-institutionalising the culture and environment of today’s nursing homes. They are expanding to all care settings, including home care and residential care for people living with different abilities.

Rayne has a special interest in dementia and has completed his PHD on this subject. His insights into this condition are eye opening.

To find out more about Rayne's business and philosophy go to www.edenalt.co.za  and www.geratecza.com