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Senior citizens centres re-open post COVID

Re-opening activity centres for senior citizens, having them reconnect with their friends and regular activities.

By news@gippsland - 4th May 2021 - Back to News

Senior citizens across Latrobe City can’t wait to see their friends again after senior citizens centres reopened across the municipality. The centres had been closed due to COVID-19 restrictions since March 2020.

Delighted to be able to re-open the doors of our senior citizens centres again, allowing the treasured senior members of our community to re-connect, which is vital for their wellbeing

Centres used by senior citizens

The centres are used by senior citizens clubs to provide social activities for members, benefiting their mental and physical health. Senior residents enjoy being part of six clubs that operate from Council facilities across Latrobe City:

• Traralgon East
• Monomeath at Traralgon
• Morwell East
• Maryvale Crescent at Morwell
• Moe centres
• Newborough centres

Council maintains the centres and pays for operating costs. The centres are also available to community groups other than senior citizens clubs to use. "Council is delighted to be able to re-open the doors of our senior citizens centres again, allowing the treasured senior members of our community to re-connect, which is vital for their wellbeing," Latrobe City Council Mayor, Cr Sharon Gibson said.

Allowing reconnections for senior citizens

Traralgon East Senior Citizens Club President Gloria Grenenger said members had enjoyed playing cards and sharing in other activities with their friends again. "It’s really important for senior people to see others, and to seek the friendship and help that they need, particularly if their families are not around," Gloria said. The club’s 180 members enjoy such activities as carpet bowls, line dancing, card games, a monthly music afternoon, pool, bingo and table tennis.

Going back to regular activities

Morwell East Senior Citizens Club has resumed in earnest, after many members felt lonely while the club was unable to meet, President Patricia Claassens said. "During the COVID lockdowns we stayed in touch by phone and then caught up for a coffee when we could, but there’s nothing like being back to regular activities," she said.

The club holds such activities as a fitness class, a card group, lace-making, knitting and choir rehearsal. "It’s all about the friendship and getting people out of their homes and having a chat. There are some people who would not do anything without the seniors club," Patricia said. All senior citizens clubs in Latrobe City welcome new members. To find out more, phone Council on 1300 367 700

Pictures from Latrobe City Council Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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