In Tírig, technology is being used to help the community address a growing problem: unwanted loneliness among the elderly. The municipality has joined Voces en Red (Voices in Network ), a Red Cross initiative that promotes the use of smart speakers to facilitate companionship, communication, and independence at home.
The program brings Alexa devices with screens to residents aged 65 and over and offers free installation, with the aim of enabling users to connect with their surroundings, access everyday digital services, and maintain routines that improve their daily well-being.
What is the initiative in Tírig?
Voces en Red promotes close digital support through voice assistants. Using natural language and a touchscreen, the devices allow users to make calls , video calls, or send messages instantly—especially useful for those who live alone or have reduced mobility.
In addition to communication, the speakers can assist with medication and appointment reminders , play music or radio, read news, check the weather, and set up personalized routines. All of this is easily configured for convenient and accessible daily use.
The approach is clear: to strengthen personal autonomy without replacing human interaction. Technology acts as a bridge in smart homes with Alexa, facilitating contact with family, friends, and municipal or healthcare services, complementing other forms of social support.
The council emphasizes that this initiative responds to a real need in the area, seeking practical solutions that help older people feel more accompanied and connected in their usual environment.
How many devices are there and who is it aimed at?
The initiative is spearheaded by the Spanish Red Cross in collaboration with the Amancio Ortega Foundation , which in 2023 acquired 26.000 Alexa devices for distribution to people over 65 throughout the country. In Tírig, the City Council has up to 90 speakers to meet local demand.
The priority target group is residents of the municipality aged 65 and over who wish to improve their communication and access to digital services. At the local level, the project is particularly geared towards those who experience unwanted loneliness or have difficulty maintaining frequent contact with their social circle, so it is important to understand the data protection implications.
The mayor, Juan José “Juanjo” Carreres, explained that this is a commitment to social innovation with a practical approach: bringing simple and useful tools to the homes of those who can benefit from them the most.
The goal is to progressively deploy the available equipment, taking into account the requests received and ensuring that the configuration is understandable and personalized for each household.
How to apply, installation and connectivity
Those interested can contact the Tírig Town Hall to submit their application. There they will receive detailed information about how the program works, as well as advice and support during the implementation process.
Installation is free and covered by the project, ensuring that the equipment is ready to use from day one. Support staff help you establish routines and trusted contacts, answer basic questions to make operation easy, and explain how to protect your privacy.
An important aspect to consider is the internet connection at home, as voice assistants require network access. The city council reports that around forty applications have already been received and that the service will continue to be rolled out as the technical conditions in each home are confirmed; it is also advisable to be aware of potential global Alexa outages.
Examples of everyday use illustrate the value of the tool well: organizing a video call with a group of friends to chat while making dinner, activating music or radio to accompany the afternoon or listening to audiobooks , or programming alerts that remind you of tasks and medications, all through voice commands.
The municipal intention is to reach the people who need it with a progressive approach, ensuring that each installation is well configured and that the device is adapted to the user's preferences , avoiding unnecessary complications.
With the support of the Red Cross and the Amancio Ortega Foundation, Tírig is moving forward along a clear path: using technology in a useful and accessible way so that seniors feel more supported, with up to 90 devices available, free installation, and support that focuses on autonomy and well-being at home.
