A fruitful beginning: Visiting DBF project "Table Tennis against Alzheimer’s" in Bulgaria

Today is World Alzheimer’s Day, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and dementia, conditions that affect millions of people globally. On this day, the ITTF Foundation wants not only to increase awareness but also to advocate for the positive impact that table tennis can have on individuals battling these life challenges. We invite you to journey with us as we recount our recent visit to one of the newly launched Dream Building Fund (DBF) powered by The Foundation for Global Sports Development projects "Table Tennis against Alzheimer’s – the Art of Inclusion" in Bulgaria and share the inspiring stories and moments that unfolded during this trip.

The DBF project "Table Tennis against Alzheimer’s – the Art of Inclusion" was initiated by the Foundation Compassion Alzheimer Bulgaria (FCAB), a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing social services and support for people living with Alzheimer’s and their families. They were selected as one of our new DBF projects, with a vision to integrate table tennis into their programmes to engage people with Alzheimer's, caregivers, and their families, enhancing the quality of life for those affected. Through delivering tailored table tennis exercises, workshops, and conferences for the Alzheimer’s target group, the project will empower each participant within the community. With the 2024 World Alzheimer’s Table Tennis Championships in France approaching, the FCAB team is also trying tirelessly to secure the necessary resources and financial support to send players with Alzheimer’s to this global stage, showcasing their commitment to bettering the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s through table tennis.

To deepen our understanding of the on-ground realities and to ensure the success of the 2-to-3-year DBF journeys, the ITTF Foundation has been planning visits to the new DBF projects. The visit to the FCAB in Bulgaria was our first stop, where we spent 3 days meeting with the project leader, coordinators, participants, and staff at the daycare centers and nursing homes where the project is implemented.

Day 1: Understanding the Reality on the Ground in Varna

Our visit began in Varna, where we were warmly welcomed by Tania, the project leader at FCAB. Varna is one of the 3 locations where the project is being implemented, alongside Kazanlak and Sofia. At the daycare center in Varna, we met with the daycare center director, caregivers, and staff who work tirelessly to support those living with Alzheimer’s.

Through their lens, guidance, and shared experiences, we gained a better understanding of the current condition at the site and how our collaborative efforts can make a difference.

Day 2: Bringing Table Tennis to Life in Kazanlak

Our second day took us to Kazanlak, where we visited a nursing home that is also part of the project. Here, we met the facility director, staff, and nursing home residents. The highlight of this day was that we conducted a comprehensive workshop focused on TT4Health, specifically tailored to Alzheimer’s and dementia. The workshop involved both in-person and virtual participants, including staff from Kazanlak and Varna, who engaged in an insightful session on the basics of Sport for Development and how to use table tennis for social development.

The practical component of the workshop was particularly interactive and impactful. Together with the attendees, we developed and conducted table tennis exercises aimed at improving focus, memory, and coordination – all critical areas for individuals with Alzheimer’s.

These exercises were later introduced to the nursing home residents, who participated with enthusiasm. The joy and engagement we shared reaffirmed our belief in the potential of table tennis to benefit those living with Alzheimer’s.

Day 3: Enhancing Collaboration and Communication

Our final day in Kazanlak was dedicated to a workshop on Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) and Communications. Given that this project spans 3 locations, effective coordination and communication are vital for its success. The workshop was designed to equip the FCAB team with the tools and knowledge needed to monitor the project’s progress and communicate effectively across all locations.

We delved into the importance of regular data collection, tracking progress, and using surveys and focus group discussions to evaluate the impact of the project activities. The communications segment of the workshop was equally crucial. It focused on providing the FCAB team with guidance and examples to develop clear and effective messaging strategies and foster a culture of active listening and understanding, which are essential for successful communication.

As we reflect on this visit, we are filled with excitement for the future of this project. The efforts of the FCAB team, the enthusiasm of the participants, and the support from the facility staff all contribute to a strong foundation for success. We look forward to the next steps in this 2-year journey and to sharing more stories of change and impact as we continue to work hand in hand with our partners in Bulgaria.