Meeting new people
THE Croftdene Senior Citizens Club, based in Chatsworth, was formed about 45 years ago with the aim of creating a fun social space for the elderly, aged 60 years and above.
Saroj Naicker, 65, the treasurer, started as a volunteer 40 years ago.
“The main reason our senior citizens club was formed was to encourage people to interact with others to alleviate loneliness, and to go on outings. We found that a lot of them were living alone and they didn’t get to experience the joy of socialising and going out in a group. Most of them are just happy to interact with others.
“A number of them joined as volunteers when the group was formed. Others come because they know or have friends or family who are part of our group.”
Naicker said they planned to lower the club entrance age to 55 in the near future. She said the senior citizens went on excursions on the club’s bus.
“They also do activities such as exercising, dancing, singing of mainly cultural songs, acting through plays and empowerment talks. We also host birthday celebrations for the members.”
Plans for the senior citizens this month include a trip to Cape Town.
Dolly Govender, 70, said she joined in 2013 after retiring from her job in the textile industry.
“I was bored at home and wanted to do something that would keep me busy. I was excited to meet new people and have different experiences.”
She said club meetings were every Wednesday and that members felt like family.
“We talk about anything and everything. We go to different places that we don’t go to with our own families, and we are well looked after. Most of us actually leave home early every Wednesday because of our excitement. The club organises transport for us and we always do so many activities.
“I wish my husband could join me. Unfortunately, he can’t participate in the activities because of his poor health.”
Govender, who lives in Chatsworth, said she also looked forward to prayer sessions, health talks and the meals provided.
“I learn so much from them. There is so much unity within our group.”
She said she rarely had different experiences with her children.
“I have three children. They are all married and living their own lives. So this club is an experience of a lifetime.”
◆ For more information, call Naicker
at 084 771 9803.