Helsinki to keep elderly service centres closed until 16 May

The elderly service centres in Helsinki City will remain closed until at least 16 May in the context of the coronavirus outbreak situation in the recent period, said the City of Helsinki in a press release on Monday.

The possibility of reopening the service centres will be re-evaluated at the beginning of May.

“The coronavirus situation in Helsinki is improving, but the risk of infection at gatherings is not over yet. Therefore, we have decided not to open service centres yet. The safety of our customers is very important to us,” said Helsinki City Southern Service District Director Helena Venetvaara.

Venetvaara said, “We will also continuously assess and monitor the situation, together with the municipalities in the Helsinki metropolitan area.”

The supported group activities of service centres have also been suspended.

Day activities for the elderly will remain closed until 16 May. Alternative ways of staying in contact are being explored for clients most in need of support.

Service centres are open meeting places for Helsinki residents who are retired or unemployed. At service centres, you can participate in various hobby groups, go to the gym and receive service guidance from social instructors, among other things.

Day activities for the elderly are organised for people over the age of 65 who have a memory disorder and live at home, for example. Day activities also support the coping of informal carers.