Savvy Seniors
This over 60's programme called 'Savvy Seniors' has been designed by Counsellor Jaqui Barrett and supports well and active elderly living alone in the city and dealing with loneliness, waning confidence and a lack of family and social supports.
Savvy Seniors meet fortnightly and have social, creative, educative and wellness objectives.
There are many benefits for participants which include creating a support and social network, having fun, building confidence, discussing topics relative to their age group and having a sense of contribution and value in designing their own unique programme.
The goal of the group is to become self supporting and self directing.
After 20 weeks the group moves into the second stage of creating and facilitating their own gatherings.
Groups are limited to around 12 participants, small enough to be intimate and supportive yet big enough to be interesting.
This current group of elders (ages range between 60 - mid 80's) have created a healthy support and social network between themselves.
People interested in wanting more information or expressing their interest can ring Home and Family Counselling Centre on 630 8961
Jaqui says “I believe this is an important initiative which will support our elders and help to maintain good mental health amongst this sometimes forgotten group in our communities. Feeling useful, remaining active and maintaining a mutually supportive network no doubt helps to protect against premature aging"
To enquire or register your interest, please email info@homeandfamily.org.nz or ring 630 8961 ext 0
Comments from past group members
It is a fantastic group, I tell everyone about it. I am so glad it is going to continue. I look forward to coming to the group every fortnight. I have made great new friends and I have regular telephone contact with members of the group. It is great having people to ring, I don't feel lonely any more. It has filled a gap in my life. Norma, 77
This group is a hedge against isolation in this big city. A great place to meet new friends in the relevant age group. Judith, 61
I have been surprised at how quickly growth in friendship has happened, closeness, free and spontaneous sharing from light to serious subjects. I am 83 years old, in good health and mind. This group has satisfied my desire for good company with people of my own generation. Ann, 83
Finding company, friendship and support on a regular basis with chat, diversity and new interests. Human contact. Joan, 60's
I feel that coming to this group has helped me a great deal. I have lived alone in Mt Albert for 25 years and have never found a nicer group of people to meet. This group is very friendly. It has helped a lot of people. Glenys, 60's
Read article in Grownups.co.nz about Savvy Seniors here.
http://www.grownups.co.nz/read/directories/community_services_charities/adv-savvy-seniors