A functioning social environment and an active life are the key for growing old healthily in familiar surroundings – this insight gave rise to the idea of establishing Vicino Luzern. It consists of a range of services that provide advice and social interaction, which is specifically tailored to the needs of the elderly, provided by by various organisations from the health, social and housing sectors. The main specific aim is to facilitate a self-determined life for older people in their familiar residential and living environment. The programme profile of Vicino is presented as a combination of self-help, services and a local concept. At the same time the organisation sees itself as a clearing point for a large number of services and requirements. It helps contacts to be established, provides information and acts as an intermediary for neighbourhood and also professional services, if the situation requires it. In addition, Vicino creates opportunities to meet other people and for social interaction: A place in the neighbourhood serves as an office, meeting point, meeting room, drop-in centre and location for small or large events and workshops.