Minister visited the School of Health and Welfare

On 24 November, Anna Tenje, Minister for Older People and Social Security, visited the School of Health and Welfare at Jönköping University (JU). During her visit, she learned about several current research projects focusing on the perspectives of the elderly, which is a timely topic.

The morning began at Mariedal, where Måns Svensson, President at JU, and Cathrine Legrand, Managing Director and Dean of the School of Health and Welfare, gave a more detailed presentation of the University and the School of Health and Welfare's activities.

“We are proud to contribute in a country like Sweden where older people can live dignified and secure lives, with high-quality care and nursing. A ministerial visit provides an opportunity to highlight the strong commitment and innovative thinking of our employees. It is gratifying to be able to showcase an environment where education, research and practice come together – and where we are making a real difference together,” says Cathrine Legrand about the visit.

The morning then continued at the School of Health and Welfare, where Louise Bæk Larsen, Head of the Rehabilitation Department, welcomed the visitors. She presented the education and research conducted in orthopaedic technology and biomechanics together with two students and a patient.

“It's a good programme, with many different parts. I'm taking a lot of knowledge with me,” Anna Tenje said on her way to the next item on the agenda.

Research – what is best for the elderly?

Selected research projects were then presented to the Minister, which also opened up for discussion. Common to the projects was that they were based on the perspective of the elderly and what is best for the individual.

"We conduct research of the highest quality in the fields of the elderly, ageing, and dementia, and today's visit gave a clear picture of the breadth and significance of the work being done. We have the opportunity to highlight both the challenges and what needs to be changed, which is an important way to contribute,” says Linda Johansson, Dean of Research and responsible for the day.

Finally, Anna Tenje was invited to the entrance hall, where the school had drawn attention to domestic violence during Orange Week.

“It has been a fantastic morning. I have gained access to cutting-edge research and opinions, as well as a great deal of valuable information. Not least the last thing we are doing right now, tying an orange ribbon. Violence does not retire, and therefore it is important that older people who are exposed to violence receive the right help and support, and that we work to combat it,” concluded Anna Tenje.