Older People's Project

Combating Loneliness and Isolation Through Community Activities

Introduction To Our Older People's Project

The Northam Care Trust are proud to offer a heartwarming initiative giving something back for free to our local community. Aimed at breaking the cycle of solitude and seclusion that older people may face. In this ‘post pandemic’ world, we are helping people to reconnect with others, building relationships and providing a support network.

A group from our older people's project in the star position whilst doing chair yoga.

The Positive Impact That We Make In Combatting Loneliness

The Power of Community

The core of this initiative lies in its regular sessions, where our group gather twice a week to join in a variety of physical and mental activities. Activities are carefully selected to benefit people both physically and mentally.

Physical Activities

One of the key aspects of these sessions is the inclusion of physical exercises. Chair yoga, walks, and even friendly competitions like paper tower building have become favorite pastimes among the senior citizens. These activities have resulted in noticeable improvements in their mobility, flexibility, and balance. They have rediscovered old abilities that have helped to give them a sense of accomplishment while building upon their confidence and self-esteem.

Mental Stimulation

The meetups also offer an array of mental activities such as quizzes, spelling bees and popular television game shows reimagined, to take part and play. These activities not only engage their minds but also foster a sense of friendly competition and accomplishment. Many participants have found that keeping their minds active through these activities has improved their cognitive function and memory.

Building Social Bonds

Beyond the physical and mental benefits, the sessions have helped seniors forge new friendships and support networks. The sense of belonging they have gained from this community has been inspiring. They now have a space to share their stories and experiences, and it has brought them closer together. The warmth and camaraderie among the participants is clear to see.

Boosting Mental and Emotional Well-being

The impact of these sessions goes beyond the physical and social aspects. They have also had a profound effect on the mental and emotional health of the people involved. The activities stimulate their minds, reducing stress, and increasing happiness. The sense of purpose and connection that these gatherings provide has proven to be a powerful antidote to the loneliness and isolation that can often be experienced by older people.

The older people project has been a huge success improving the lives of many who had become isolated through covid. It has received positive feedback from people who attend, who have expressed their gratitude and satisfaction. It has also created a positive impact on the community, as it has fostered social cohesion, intergenerational exchange, and cultural diversity.

To hear the thoughts of some of the people supported through the project, click here!

Older People's Project

Addressing Older Loneliness:

The pressing issue of older people's loneliness and social isolation post pandemic has had a significant impact on the lives of the seniors.

Regular Community Meetups:

The initiative emphasizes the importance of regular meetups as a means to reconnect older individuals. These meetups are organized twice a week, providing consistent opportunities for social interaction.

Diverse Activities:

The initiative offers a diverse range of physical and mental activities to cater to the varied interests and abilities of senior citizens. Activities include chair yoga, quizzes, spelling bees, walks, and even friendly competitions like paper tower building, family fortunes, University challenge etc.

Physical Well-being:

The positive impact of physical activities on seniors' well-being. These activities improve mobility, flexibility, and balance, helping seniors maintain physical health.

Mental Stimulation:

The initiative incorporates mental activities such as quizzes and spelling bees to engage seniors' minds. Mental stimulation helps enhance cognitive function and memory.

Building Social Bonds:

A central principle is the creation of a supportive community where seniors can form new friendships and support networks. The sense of belonging fosters camaraderie among participants.

Mental and Emotional Well-being:

The meetups positively affect the mental and emotional health of seniors. They stimulate the mind, reduce stress, and increase happiness, contributing to improved overall well-being.

Sense of Purpose:

The sense of purpose and connection derived from participating in these gatherings is crucial for combating loneliness and isolation among elderly individuals.

Community Care:

This initiative is a reminder that with care and effort, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our elderly loved ones and contribute to their happiness and well-being.

Laughter:

This initiative is a reminder that with care and effort, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our elderly loved ones and contribute to their happiness and well-being.

Eligibility criteria for participation in the initiative to reconnect elderly people

Age Requirement:

Participants should likely be of a certain age, typically considered as "elderly" or "senior citizens," which is often defined as 60 years or older.

Willingness to Participate:

Seniors interested in joining the initiative should express a willingness to actively participate in the meetups and engage in the offered activities.

Interest in Social Interaction:

Eligible participants should have an interest in social interaction and a desire to connect with other seniors. The initiative's primary goal is to combat loneliness and isolation, so participants should be open to building social bonds

Ability to Benefit:

While not a strict eligibility criterion, seniors who can benefit from physical and mental activities in terms of improved mobility, cognitive function, and emotional well-being may be prioritized.

Community Involvement:

Those who are interested in becoming part of a supportive community and are willing to contribute to the sense of camaraderie and belonging may be preferred.

Activities & Projects We Offer

The initiative to reconnect elderly people offers a wide range of engaging activities designed to promote physical, mental, and social well-being among senior citizens. These activities are carefully curated to cater to the interests and needs of elderly individuals, providing a well-rounded experience. Here's a brief overview of the activities offered:

Chair Yoga: Chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga that can be practiced while sitting on a chair or using it for support. It helps improve flexibility, balance, and relaxation without requiring participants to get on the floor.
Quizzes: Brain-teasing quizzes stimulate cognitive function and memory while providing a fun and interactive way to challenge participants' knowledge on various topics.
Spelling Bees: Spelling bees not only test participants' spelling skills but also encourage friendly competition and mental engagement.
Walks: Regular walks promote physical activity, increase mobility, and provide an opportunity for seniors to enjoy the outdoors and socialize with fellow participants.
Trips Out: Organized trips to local attractions or events offer seniors a chance to explore their community, experience new things, and bond with others in the group.
Paper Tower Competitions: Friendly competitions, such as building paper towers, add an element of creativity and teamwork while fostering a sense of accomplishment.
Reimagined popular television game shows: Fun and friendly competitions based on very popular game shows such as, Blankety Blank, Countdown, Name that Tune, Blockbusters, Family Fortunes, Play Your Cards Right, Pointless and many more.
Coffee mornings
& much more!