Selwyn Centres – an antidote to loneliness for older people

Older people in central Auckland now have the chance to meet others and socialise in the friendly, caring environment of a Selwyn Centre.

Centres are open once a week in Mt Albert and twice a week in Blockhouse Bay, offering a programme of social games, gentle exercise, morning tea, outings and excursions, all for a nominal fee per guest.

Part-funded by The Selwyn Foundation, one of New Zealand’s largest charitable aged care providers, the Centres are for older adults who live alone and/or 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 and liaise with other service agencies on behalf of the guests attending.

“Many friendships have been fostered through our group, and new people are most welcome to come and see for themselves what we have to offer,” says 4 Seniors @ the Bay coordinator, Sylvia Richardson.

More than 500 people over the age of 65 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 the general health of older people.  It can also bring psychological benefits, such as delaying the onset of dementia.

4 Seniors @ the Bay is held at the Church of the Saviour, 2 Heaphy St, Blockhouse Bay from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm on Mondays and 9:30 am to 1.00 pm on Wednesdays. Contact Sylvia Richardson on 627 8779 or email sylvia@cots.org.nz for more information.

The Mt Albert Selwyn Centre is at St Luke’s Anglican Church, 704 New North Rd, on Fridays from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm. Contact Joanna Williamson on 528 6916 or 027 498 8010 for more information.

Go back to news items