THE increasing number of male residents who call Mercy Place Edgewater home has prompted the establishment of a men’s group.
Local resident and volunteer Robert Cramp, whose mother was a resident at the residential aged care home for several years, started the group.
The male seniors at the home have been meeting regularly to have a chat, with a focus on boosting their emotional health and wellbeing and reducing the risk of loneliness and isolation.
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READ NOW“It all started when I began visiting my mum regularly and noticed while the female residents had lots of craft groups to get involved with, the male residents did not and I thought that a men’s group was something that I could help to organise,” Mr Cramp said.
“We now meet every second Friday and talk about a range of topics, including current affairs, while enjoying drinks and nibbles.
“I enjoy it immensely – volunteering makes me feel like I am giving something back and it’s an enjoyable thing to do during my retirement.
“I’m 69 years old so it’s actually nice to be the youngest member of the group for a change.”
Mercy Place Edgewater service manager Alison Devonport said the group was a simple concept but the residents had embraced it.
“Men typically keep things close to their chest but it’s important for them to have a chance to share their thoughts and experiences, have a chat, make some new friends and reflect on their past within a safe and social environment,” she said.