Combating Loneliness: Interactive Event Brings Joy to Seniors in Velsen
VELSEN, Netherlands – An interactive event held Wednesday, March 12, brought together 40 seniors for an afternoon of fun, friendship, and activities designed to combat loneliness. Organized in collaboration with Stichting Telstar Thuis in de Wijk and other organizations, the event featured music, games, and exercise, all aimed at fostering connections and promoting well-being.
Friendship and Fun Take Center Stage
The event kicked off with familiar tunes from the 1950s and 60s, featuring artists like Wim Sonneveld, Willy Alberti, and the Selvera’s, immediately creating a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere. Erik Smit of SRO and Sam Rooker of Stichting Welzijn Velsen emphasized the importance of stimulating sport and organizing events for all ages to encourage movement and engagement within the community.
Olga Commandeur Leads Engaging Warm-up
Adding to the excitement, Olga Commandeur, former athlete and popular TV personality from the programme “Nederland in Beweging” (Netherlands in Motion), led an enthusiastic warm-up session. Commandeur, an IJmuiden native, had participants stretching, bending, and raising their arms, setting a lively tone for the afternoon.
Badminton, Speed Dating, and an Enthusiastic choir
participants then broke into groups to participate in activities such as kind speed dating, sjoelen (Dutch shuffleboard), and seated badminton. Siem Wagner, 76, an enthusiastic participant from Ontmoetingscentrum Polderstroom, part of Zorgbalans, notably enjoyed the badminton with a balloon, emphasizing the importance of staying active with others. The afternoon concluded with a vibrant performance by the Amusementskoor velsen, which was well-received by the enthusiastic crowd.
Organizers expressed their satisfaction with the event, highlighting the joy and camaraderie shared by all who attended.
How did the organizers measure the success of the event in terms of combating loneliness and fostering a sense of community among the attendees?
Combating Loneliness: Interactive Event Brings Joy to Seniors in Velsen
VELSEN, netherlands – An interactive event held Wednesday, March 12, brought together 40 seniors for an afternoon of fun, friendship, and activities designed to combat loneliness. Organized in collaboration with Stichting Telstar Thuis in de Wijk and other organizations, the event featured music, games, and exercise, all aimed at fostering connections and promoting well-being.
Friendship and Fun Take Center Stage
The event kicked off with familiar tunes from the 1950s and 60s, featuring artists like Wim Sonneveld, Willy Alberti, and the Selvera’s, immediately creating a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere. Erik Smit of SRO and Sam rooker of Stichting Welzijn Velsen emphasized the importance of stimulating sport and organizing events for all ages to encourage movement and engagement within the community.
Olga commandeur Leads Engaging Warm-up
Adding to the excitement, Olga Commandeur, former athlete and popular TV personality from the program “Nederland in Beweging” (Netherlands in motion), led an excited warm-up session.Commandeur, an IJmuiden native, had participants stretching, bending, and raising their arms, setting a lively tone for the afternoon.
Badminton, Speed Dating, and an Enthusiastic choir
participants then broke into groups to participate in activities such as kind speed dating, sjoelen (Dutch shuffleboard), and seated badminton. Siem Wagner, 76, an enthusiastic participant from Ontmoetingscentrum Polderstroom, part of Zorgbalans, notably enjoyed the badminton with a balloon, emphasizing the importance of staying active with others. The afternoon concluded with a vibrant performance by the Amusementskoor velsen,which was well-received by the enthusiastic crowd.
Organizers expressed their satisfaction with the event, highlighting the joy and camaraderie shared by all who attended.
Q&A: Combating Loneliness in Velsen
Q: when and where did the event take place?
A: The event took place on wednesday, March 12th, in Velsen, Netherlands.
Q: What organizations were involved in organizing the event?
A: Stichting Telstar Thuis in de Wijk and other organizations collaborated to put on the event.
Q: What were some of the activities offered?
A: Activities included music from the 1950s and 60s, a warm-up led by Olga Commandeur, badminton, “kind speed dating,” sjoelen (Dutch shuffleboard), and a performance by the Amusementskoor Velsen.
Q: Who is Olga Commandeur and why was she involved?
A: olga Commandeur is a former athlete and TV personality known for the fitness programme “Nederland in beweging”. She led the warm-up session to encourage physical activity.
Q: What is the significance of “kind speed dating”?
A: “Kind speed dating” is a modified version of speed dating, designed to be friendly and encourage social interaction among participants.It helps foster new friendships and connections.
Q: What is sjoelen?
A: Sjoelen (Dutch shuffleboard) is a customary Dutch game where players slide wooden pucks across a board into numbered arches. It’s a fun, engaging activity that encourages competition and social interaction.
Q: How can I find similar events near me?
A: Check local community centers, senior organizations, and city websites for event listings. Search online using keywords like “senior activities,” “community events,” or “social gatherings” in your area. Consider joining a local club or group that interests you.
This event in Velsen demonstrates the power of community and activity to combat loneliness. Consider attending or organizing a similar event in your own community – it’s a wonderful way to make a difference!
