Elderweiss

Elderweiss’ title stems from the Edelweiss flower (in German, Edelweiß, symbolising strength, toughness and resilience). We seek to enable socially isolated elderly to be strong in their golden years by taking charge of their health and enthusiastically participating in their community. Through volunteering sessions, we aim to reconnect and reintegrate elderly into the wider community around them, providing a listening ear to the residents (many of whom lack an outlet to vent their frustrations and feelings); and enabling the elderly to better maintain their health, keeping them physically and mentally active.

Objectives of project

• Regular companionship for socially isolated residents; with volunteers following through with their assigned elderly for the entire academic year

• Empowering the elderly to take charge of their health and speak about personal matters to someone they trust

• Fostering a strong sense of community within the SARAH AAC community, and developing a robust social support system for the elderly to turn to

Activities conducted

• Regular house visits and/or virtual check-ins with elderly more prone to social isolation

• Outings / individually-organised activities with the elderly to encourage greater socialisation and promote a more active lifestyle among the elderly

• Large-scale events, providing opportunities for the elderly to mingle with their peers and the wider SARAH AAC community