A chat and cuppa to check on wellbeing

MENTAL health is on the menu at Mercy Place Rice Village as the Marshall aged care facility encourages residents to mingle over a cuppa on RUOK? Day today.

As part of the event, Mercy Place staff will advocate for seniors to check in on neighbours.

It is part of an initiative to highlight that retirees are not immune to depression and anxiety.

Mercy Place service manager Bernadette Bartok says the facility aims to rekindle communication among its residents.

“For our residents, it’s going back to the old days where they’d have a chat with their neighbour and be more connected,” Ms Bartok said.

“Everything can be sorted out over a cuppa — and we want to show that.”

She says staff provided special cups and tea pots for the locals as they socialised.

Mercy Place is one of a long list of Geelong businesses, clubs and institutions recognising RUOK? Day.

Named for the RUOK suicide prevention charity, the day aims to remind people having meaningful conversations with mates and loved ones can save lives.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 131 114 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636.