The main goal of the BLOOM project was to promote the mental well-being and social inclusion of older adults through outdoor physical activities designed to stimulate both body and mind. By using movement as a tool for neurocognitive stimulation and community engagement, the project aimed to enhance emotional balance, resilience, and overall quality of life among seniors. BLOOM also sought to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, research, and good practices between Portugal and Slovenia and to co-create the BLOOM Programme — an educational model integrating mental well-being, neurocognitive stimulation, and social participation. Furthermore, the project intended to strengthen cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving, empowering seniors to manage stress, reduce anxiety, and stay active. Finally, BLOOM aspired to reduce loneliness and to foster intergenerational connection, creating inclusive communities where seniors feel valued and engaged.
Europe is experiencing a major demographic change, with a rapidly growing older population facing challenges such as loneliness, cognitive decline, and reduced physical activity. Many seniors lack accessible opportunities to maintain their mental well-being, stay active, and feel socially connected. These issues often lead to isolation, loss of confidence, and a decline in quality of life. BLOOM was created to respond to these challenges by promoting mental well-being and social inclusion through outdoor physical activity. The project recognised that combining movement, social interaction, and cognitive stimulation can significantly improve older adults’ emotional balance, resilience, and motivation to stay active. At the same time, BLOOM aimed to reduce social isolation and encourage exchange between several generations, offering seniors opportunities to connect with others, engage in shared activities, and feel valued and included within their communities.