Social support groups keep seniors active

The opportunity to spend time with other people and engage in social outings keeps people connected with the community they live in.

Bellarine Community Health runs a program of social support groups, which aims to keep seniors active both physically and mentally.

Known as Planned Activity Groups or PAG, these groups provide social and recreational activity programs that help people stay connected and live as independently as possible.

By participating in a range of enjoyable and meaningful activities, people can enhance, practice or maintain their skills, enjoy social contact with others and participate in the community.

“Our PAG programs are a lot of fun for the participants,” community wellness coordinator Sally Bambrook said.

“We provide a safe, supported environment where elderly people can enjoy stimulating activities and outings.

“Listening to the chatter of the different groups when they meet up is a joy and people form real bonds and friendships.”

The programs are open to a wide range of people who are seeking to maintain their independence and connection to the community, whether they’re living independently at home, living with a disability or are assisted and supported by carers or family.

“We provide a variety of different groups which target different activities,” Ms Bambrook said.

“We have a specific men’s group and they do activities like cooking and play billiards, there’s also groups aimed at people with limited mobility and we have groups for people suffering memory loss or dementia.”

The Planned Activity Group program aims to support wellness and independence by including a range of activities which build on the strengths, goals and interests of those participating.

The activities could include arts and craft, music, outings to local venues, games and gentle exercise and even gardening.

The group sessions are conducted at Bellarine Community Health Centres or within the local community.

BCH will provide assistance with transport for those people not able to drive themselves.

To find out more about the Planned Activity Groups, phone Bellarine Community Health on 5258 0812 or email [email protected].