CARE-Lead BIP: An International Intensive Week on Ageing, Care and Leadership in Nursing
In May 2026, Rīga Stradiņš University hosted the international Blended Intensive Programme CARE-Lead BIP — Competence in Aging Care & Responsible Empowered Leadership in Nursing.
The idea for the CARE Lead BIP intensive week was developed within the framework of the Big Picture project. During the project, nursing competences in geriatric care were analysed in depth, and a significant amount of theoretical material was collected and reviewed. This process highlighted the need to translate theoretical knowledge into practical, student-centred learning activities.
As a result, the concept of an international Blended Intensive Programme was created. The intensive week provided an opportunity to apply the knowledge gained through the Big Picture project in an intercultural and practice-based learning environment. It brought together students and educators from partner countries to explore ageing, comprehensive geriatric assessment, nursing leadership and person-centred care from a broader perspective. In this way, the CARE-Lead BIP intensive week became a practical continuation of the Big Picture project, helping participants to see the broader context of geriatric care and to strengthen the role of nurses in improving the quality of life of older adults.
The programme brought together students and academic staff from Latvia, Greece and Iceland to explore practical, sustainable and person-centred solutions for improving the care of older adults. As population ageing remains one of the most pressing challenges in healthcare, the programme focused on key areas such as geriatric care, ethical decision-making, sustainable healthcare and the development of nursing leadership.
An International and Practice-Based Learning Experience
CARE-Lead BIP was an international, practice-oriented programme that combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience in a multicultural environment. During the programme, students attended lectures and workshops, analysed real-life cases and worked together to develop solutions to challenges faced by older adults in everyday life. Special attention was paid to:
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment
- Cognitive assessment of older patients
- Healthy ageing
- The role of spirituality in the ageing process
- The role of nurses in different European countries
Students worked in international teams, exchanged experiences and strengthened their ability to collaborate in a diverse professional environment.
Exploring an Innovative Project in Geriatric Care
During the programme, students also learned about the project Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment Skills Education Programme for Nurses – Can You See the Big Picture? The main aim of this initiative was to strengthen nurses’ competences in geriatric care and help address the shortage of healthcare professionals in ageing societies. The project focused on developing a new educational programme for nurses on Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment, which could later be integrated into university, higher education and vocational education programmes, as well as used in continuing education and lifelong learning. Students explored how Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment helps evaluate not only a patient’s physical health, but also:
- Functional abilities
- Cognitive status
- Social support
- Financial aspects
- Living environment
- Emotional and psychological well-being
Virtual Activities and Film Analysis
The programme began with online meetings in April and May 2026. During one of the virtual lectures, students were introduced to the topic The Second Map: Redefining the Landscape of Global Aging (50+), which examined the impact of population ageing on the economy, technology and healthcare. As part of their preparatory work, students also carried out a film analysis related to geriatric care. Through this activity, they assessed:
- The quality of life of older adults;
- Social and emotional challenges;
- Quality of care;
- The role of family and society in the ageing process.
This approach helped students develop empathy, critical thinking and professional reflection skills.
Programme Activities in Riga
During the intensive week, students took part in a wide range of activities in Riga, including lectures, interactive workshops, simulated care scenarios, group project work, mentoring, visits to care institutions and cultural activities. The CARE-Lead BIP programme promoted not only professional development, but also intercultural collaboration, empathy and a deeper understanding of ageing in contemporary society. Together, students and educators from Latvia, Greece and Iceland contributed to shaping a more compassionate, sustainable and competent future for older adults.