Outings boost the mood and provide a chance to socialise, no more so than for residents of WesleyCare.
In the past few months, WesleyCare has taken residents on outings to easily accessible destinations, such as the New Brighton pier and shopping malls. Most journeys are by minivan but some have been by Orbiter bus, which stops on Harewood Road directly outside WesleyCare. The oldest resident to have enjoyed an outing was 99 years old.
“Outings are uplifting and provide the residents with a sense of freedom,” a WesleyCare Activities staff member said. “We want the residents to enjoy the sights of Christchurch as well as the conversation and socialisation that goes with being in a group.”
Outings keep residents connected to their city and enable them to enjoy places they may no longer be able to access on their own. WesleyCare staff recently took a group of residents, including wheelchair and walking frame users, on an Orbiter ride to morning tea at the Bush Inn Centre. One resident described the day out as wonderful. “It was good to get in the fresh air and sun. It gave us a chance to see a different environment and I got to know other members of the group which would not have occurred otherwise.”
The prospect of a trip was always exciting, with one resident saying an outing “added a whole new dimension to my day”. Another said the group aspect made outings special.
Physical activity associated with outings provides irrefutable benefits such as improved physical wellbeing and cognitive stimulation, according to the Ministry of Health. Outings can improve the quality of life, counter stereotypes about aging, foster a sense of belonging and reduce isolation.