In January of this year New Age Care launched a Wednesday Activity Club for clients and the wider community. The idea behind the club was to bring people together to socialise; create, with seasonal activities; and inform & inspire, through guest speakers.
The positive impact of socialising for the elderly
Loneliness can be a huge issue for the elderly or those living at home on their own and the Wednesday Activity Club is helping to combat this. We’re pleased to say that the Wednesday Activity Club has been a huge success with lots of positive feedback.
Our first Wednesday club
Our first Wednesday Activity Club, on 31st January, started with a game of bingo, with prizes for the winners, followed by a variety of board games.
It was lovely to hear our clients reminiscing about when they used to play these games with family, when they were younger. Refreshments were served throughout the afternoon and clients also enjoyed an afternoon tea, which included a selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones served warm with jam and clotted cream.
To finish the afternoon off we had a guest speaker, Chris, a financial advisor, who talked about finance matters. This was an informal discussion around the financial climate and clients had the opportunity to ask about any finance queries they may have. Chris offered some great advice on how to keep yourself financially safe.
The Wednesday Club in February
Our 2nd Wednesday Activity Club happened on the 28th of February. We had a great turn out again and it was lovely seeing old and new friends meeting up. Our guest speaker this month was Sonia, an extremely talented actress/voice coach. Sonia talked about her career and shared lots of interesting and funny anecdotes about many of the famous people she has worked with, in theatre and television, over the years.
Clients again enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea. The afternoon ended with an impromptu sing-along. Sonia led the group singing ‘Amazing Grace’, which just so happened to be one of the client, John’s, favourite songs.
The March Wednesday Club
Our latest Wednesday Activity Club was on Wednesday 27th March. It was wonderful to welcome back some of our clients for an afternoon of crafts. Although there were lots of options available, everyone opted for the less messy felt tips and pencils.
Our clients also enjoyed a talk by two police officers, who shared valuable insights on home safety and various types of scams people may encounter. Everyone found it highly beneficial. Afterwards, we indulged in afternoon treats including hot cross buns and of course the popular Victoria sponge cake.
Creating Opportunities for Reconnection
The Wednesday Activity Clubs are a fabulous afternoon, full of conversation and lots of laughter. It’s lovely to see old friends meet up again and share memories, as well as an opportunity to meet and make new friends.
Coincidently, two of our clients actually knew each other previously but hadn’t seen each other in 30 years. Their families used to live on the same street, but one lady moved to another area, and they lost touch. They were reunited at our Wednesday Activity Club! It was so heartwarming to see how delighted they were to see each other again, reminisce about the good old days and share memories about their families. We have since supported them to meet up again and go for a coffee and more meet ups are planned.
What our attendees say about the Wednesday club
Everyone who has attended our Wednesday Activity Club said that they have had a great time, thoroughly enjoyed themselves and were looking forward to attending again. Here are some quotes from our clients:
BK (Client) - “It was great playing the old board games. It reminded me a lot of my childhood and playing Draughts with my father. A lot of fond memories”.
CP (Client) - “I loved getting out and meeting new people. It was a fabulous afternoon and I’m looking forward to attending more. I think it’s a great idea”.
Roger (Client) – “I love the Wednesday club as it gets me out of the house and gives me something to do. I get to meet people and each month it’s a different topic, which I look forward to.”
DT (Client) – “The Wednesday clubs are really helping my mental health.”
Join us at our next Wednesday club
At the Wednesday club we aim to reduce isolation and loneliness in the community. Left unchecked this can often lead to more serious mental health issues low self-esteem and depression. Getting people together and creating a community is so important for their physical and mental-health and well-being.
The Wednesday club runs on the last Wednesday of every month at Pure Offices in Leamington Spa.
It is not just for clients but is open to the whole community.
If you are interested in attending, please call 0808 808 5000 to book.