Empowering Lives: The Feel Good Centres by Listening Ears Charity
Isolation among the elderly is a pressing issue, and at Listening Ears, we’ve pioneered a transformative initiative: the Feel Good Centres. Specifically designed for individuals over 50 and the elderly, our centres in Abbey Wood (Feel Good Fridays) and Thamesmead (Feel Good @ The Atrium) serve as vibrant hubs where isolation dissipates, and connections flourish.
Promoting Social Bonds and Total Wellbeing
At our Feel Good Centres, we go beyond the conventional scope of combating isolation. Here, our esteemed visitors find more than just a cup of tea and friendly faces. They discover a haven where they can indulge in engaging activities, savour nourishing meals, and forge friendships that last a lifetime. Our holistic approach focuses on enhancing their quality of life, health, and total well-being.
A Tapestry of Activities
Our centres buzz with diverse activities tailored to promote physical and mental vitality. From gentle exercises that keep limbs active, ensuring stability and preventing falls, to interactive sessions fostering new friendships, we tailor our programs to the unique needs of our participants. Board games and Bingo sessions add a touch of friendly competition, while health checks and information sessions on vital topics empower our visitors with knowledge.
Nourishing the Body and Soul
Nourishment, both physical and emotional, is a cornerstone of our approach. Participants indulge in a monthly luncheon club, treating them to a buffet of dishes spanning various cultures. Pampering days offer free massages, a luxurious experience that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, our annual coach day trip to the seaside and regular outings to places of interest broaden their horizons, adding joy and excitement to their lives.
Gentle Yet Effective Activities
Recognizing the unique needs of our cherished participants, all physical activities are gentle, ensuring safety while being effective in improving mobility and reducing the risk of cardiovascular illnesses. From chair-based exercises to the rhythmic movements of Line Dancing and Zumba Gold, our sessions cater to diverse interests, ensuring everyone finds an activity that resonates with them.
At Listening Ears, our Feel Good Centres are more than spaces; they are vibrant communities where laughter, learning, and connection thrive. Join us in our mission to combat isolation, nurture friendships, and enhance the lives of our elderly community members. Together, we create a tapestry of wellbeing and joy, weaving a future where no one feels alone.
Did you know?
Loneliness is a huge social problem! With 3.8million older people living alone, more than 700,000 people over 65 have reported loneliness
About 200,000 older people are unable to leave their homes due to social immobility
Only 17% of older people are in contact with family, friends and neighbours more than once a week and 11% are in contact less than once a month
12% of older people feel trapped in their own home
Only 6% of older people leave their house once a week or more
Nearly 200,000 older people in the UK don’t get help to get out of their home
9% of older people say they feel excluded from society
Of about 3.8 million older people living alone, 70% are women over 65
51% of people aged 75 and over live alone
Catalyzed by this profound realization, Listening Ears is propelled into action, committed to alleviating the poignant issue of elderly isolation. Our dedication finds expression through our flagship initiatives: The Feel Good Centres and the Community Angels befriending service.
Since 2006, we’ve reached out to more than 1,500 individuals aged 50 and above, offering support and companionship through our centers and outreach programs. Yet, there are many more waiting to be reached. Your contribution to our cause plays a pivotal role, enabling us to cover essential expenses like delivery costs, volunteer travel, and the facilitation of engaging activities.
Becoming a partner of Listening Ears means joining hands with us in this noble endeavor. Whether through a one-time donation or regular monthly commitments, every contribution matters greatly.
We invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. Your time is a valuable gift, and you can make a difference by volunteering or becoming an ambassador for the Listening Ears charity.
Following a visit from TV presenter Anthea Turner on behalf of our funders, our Feel Good Centre is featured in the new National Health Lottery television advert! Watch on YouTube: