The Centre is open on Mondays at the Anglican Church Hall lounge, 2A Kamo Rd, from 9.45 am. It offers a programme of Tai Chi exercise, morning tea, a guest speaker or demonstrator and an outing or activity, followed by a two-course lunch. The cost is $5 to $10 per guest and transport is available, if needed.

 

Part-funded by The Selwyn Foundation, one of New Zealand’s largest charitable providers of quality aged care services, the Centre is for people over 65 who live alone and may be in need of friendship, help and support, regardless of religious or cultural background. Activities are run by a trained coordinator and a team of volunteers who can also play an advocacy role, liaise with other agencies, or offer extra respite care as needed.

 

More than 500 older people with varying levels of independence and mobility now attend one of 25 Selwyn Centres each week, and there are plans to open more Centres this year. Loneliness can be a serious health issue for the elderly, and research indicates that social interaction with others directly influences general health. It can also bring psychological benefits, such as delaying the onset of dementia.

 

For further information on the Whangarei Centre and a detailed programme, please contact: Jean Currie, Selwyn Centre coordinator, Anglican Church office, 2B Kamo Rd, Whangarei, Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 12 noon. Tel: 09 437 6087.