Tenerife Expands Social Tourism Program to Combat Elderly Loneliness

Tenerife is leading the way in active aging by launching a local travel program designed to fill the gaps in national social tourism. Now in its second year, the Island Council is working with 25 municipalities to offer trips for residents over 60. More than just a vacation, this initiative aims to bring people together and combat the growing issue of loneliness among the elderly.

The program has a budget of 863,100 euros, funded through a partnership between the island government, local municipalities, and the travelers themselves. Each trip costs 707 euros, with the island contributing 240.38 euros and the municipalities and participants each paying 233.31 euros. This shared cost makes travel and culture accessible to those who spent their lives working hard or caring for their families.

A major update this year is the addition of 60 fully funded spots for vulnerable individuals, covered by the Island Institute for Social and Socio-health Care (IASS). This change addresses concerns from social services, which recognize that isolation is a significant risk to the health and well-being of older adults.

This year’s destination is Granada, chosen based on feedback from participants who traveled to Cantabria during the program's first run. As part of the "Islénior" strategy, the six-day trips include professional support staff to ensure the travelers feel safe and well-organized throughout their journey.

The program’s success comes down to its local approach. By organizing trips through neighborhood councils, participants travel with people they already know, which helps reduce the anxiety of visiting a new place. Early feedback has been very positive, with travelers praising the hotel quality and the chance to socialize. Because it is affordable and well-managed, this initiative has become a popular alternative to the limited spots available through national programs.