Enjoyable Two Days Camp

(14th & 15th July 2023)

The first short two-day camp for older adults was conducted on the 14th and 15th July 2023 at Nahar’s Amrit Shakti in Chandivali. The camp aimed to provide an engaging and enjoyable experience for the members while promoting social interaction, cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, and overall well-being. The camp activities were designed to cater to the specific needs and abilities of senior citizens, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the program. The camp aims to create a sense of community and connection among the senior citizens, fostering friendships and positive experiences. Facilitators and volunteers guide and support the members, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.

Day 1:

On the first day, despite heavy rains, there were 8 older adult members. The camp started with an icebreaker activity where members stood in a circle and threw a ball at each other while calling out their names. This activity helped everyone learn each other’s names in a fun and interactive way. 

Then it was finger-brain gym exercises. These exercises stimulate the brain through finger movements, enhancing cognitive abilities and fine motor skills. Members engaged in word games like Hangman, which helps in stimulating their minds, and encouraging social interaction and teamwork.

After the stimulating and exhilarating session, a short break was scheduled to allow the members to enjoy some snacks and refreshments. This break not only provided them with an opportunity to recharge but also encouraged socialisation among the members.

We also had small get-to-know each other, where members took turns sharing a little bit about themselves, such as their hobbies, interests, or memorable life experiences. This activity promotes bonding and creates a friendly atmosphere among the members. 

Members engage in a gentle exercise session with ribbons and move them gracefully to light music. This activity promotes coordination, flexibility, and overall physical well-being. We concluded our first day with a circle of gratitude and thankfulness.

Day 2:

Members begin the day by revisiting the finger-brain gym exercises introduced on the previous day which stimulate the brain. Additionally, new exercises were introduced to further challenge and engage the members.

On this day the members were encouraged to solve arithmetic calculations.This session focused on arithmetic calculations, both verbally and in a written format. Members were given maths problems to solve, which not only exercises their mental maths skills but also promotes critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Rhythmic Movements Sessions was the next session. A facilitator led the group in creating rhythmic patterns and movements while sitting. This activity promotes coordination and creativity and provides a sense of joy and camaraderie.

The two-day short camp proved to be an attempt to get an experience of what are the possible activities that the members can get engaged in.  The participating members suggested to continue organising similar programs. The activities conducted during the camp provided an excellent balance of mental stimulation, physical exercise, and social interaction. Members actively engaged in the various exercises, fostering a sense of community and connection. The camp successfully achieved its objective of providing an enjoyable and beneficial experience for senior citizens, contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.

Based on the success of this camp, the participating older adults suggested to continue organising similar programs on a regular basis. The activities can be further diversified to include additional cognitive exercises, creative workshops, and outdoor activities, depending on their interests and abilities. Additionally, seeking feedback from the members regarding their experience and suggestions for improvement can further enhance the effectiveness of future camps

Venue: Y – Wing, Callalily, Seven Flowers Association, Nahar’s Amrit Shakti, Chandivali, Mumbai – 400 072

Fees: Rs.499/- for 2 days (2 hrs each) with a Snack