Fleurhof-based NPO keeping the elderly physically and mentally active
Challenges such as a permanent venue and transport for the elderly hinder growth.
Even if the body may slow down, the verve for life does not cease.
A non-profit organisation (NPO) based at the Fleurhof Recreation Centre is giving the elderly members of the community an outlet for any pent-up boredom. Three days a week, Fleurhof Elderly Community Centre (FECC) provides a host of activities that help the over-60s remain connected to the outside world through the bonds of friendship and regular fun.
Tuesdays and Thursdays are focused on the physical well-being of the members, with the grannies and grandpas getting the joints moving. Various stretching exercises are followed by games of soccer, netball and other ball sports. Wednesdays are for the mind as they are a mix between emotional upliftment and fine motor skills work. FECC puts on various motivational discussions as well as arts and crafts activities like sketching, knitting and even choir.
Each day runs from 10:00 to 14:00 and features a home-cooked meal prepared by the members at their own homes and transported to the venue by whatever means necessary. “It is important to get the elderly out and active. Too many grannies sit around alone and here they can enjoy the company of other while keeping mentally and physically healthy,” said FECC chairperson, April Rampeiwa.
One stumbling block to the NPO’s growth is the lack of a permanent home as the use of the Fleurhof Recreation Centre is ad hoc. FECC has had offers of assistance but those have been subject to having a permanent headquarters with measurable amenities.
April and his team’s dream is to lay these permanent foundations in order to broaden the care they give to the elderly so should a helping hand be willing to be extended they may contact April on 0076 291 5441.
