The social good of community connections

Imagine this – your elderly parent lives on their own, has some independence, but there’s a risk of them becoming lonely due to being less mobile and unable to get out and about as much as they used to.

Our Club Enliven day programme has been developed for people to stay connected and have regular contact with other older people.

Run by trained staff and volunteers, Club Enliven offers a programme of activities for older people to come together, have a social outing and lessen the risk of social isolation and loneliness.

Many of our members are picked up by volunteer drivers (and returned home at the end of the day), although some have their own transport. Arriving in the morning, they’ll have morning tea, the day will be full of activities, lunch is then provided, and afternoon tea will wrap up the day. Activities include quizzes, crosswords, crafts, gentle exercises, music, indoor games and guest speakers.

Earlier this year, Club Enliven Dunedin members were invited to see the world through virtual reality technology that gave them virtual tours of places around the world, including the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Machu Picchu in Peru and white sandy beaches in Jamaica.

Having the opportunity to make friends and being connected to other people is an important part of Club Enliven. Members feel a sense of belonging, and their mental wellbeing is nurtured. The programme also offers respite for members’ caregivers.

Club Enliven Dunedin moved into new premises in South Dunedin and are now enjoying a more spacious environment that is warm and inviting.

Club Enliven is run in Alexandra, Dunedin and Mosgiel, and is of great value to the community.

Banner image: Club Enliven members enjoying activities at their Oxford Street premises

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