What I saw in Israel; A lesson in aging
October 28, 2022
Founded in 1962, just 14 years after the founding of the state of Israel, the elderly in Israel were faced with tremendous socio-economic challenges. They weren’t respected or paid attention to given the challenges the newly founded state was going through, and even worse, they lost respect for themselves.
Along came Yad Lakashish, where 8 local elderly men were trained in the art of bookbinding and for a small fee they serviced the community and local schools. They regained their self-respect and started connecting with community members.
Today, the non-profit organization supports and provides opportunities for over 300 elderly in the Jerusalem area. (In ten workshop ranging from silk painting and knitting to ceramics and textiles). Some are Holocaust survivors and some immigrants from Russia and Ethiopia. All creating magnificent pieces of art on a daily basis while socializing with their peers.


The Yad L’Kashish model is an inspiration for re-engaging with the elderly population and giving them the opportunity to connect and contribute. You can see more about the work they do here: https://www.lifeline.org.il/index.aspx
Categories:
Aging