Be part of the Brendoncare community: fun and laughter always guaranteed
Are you ready for some fun, some new activities to try out or some new friends to make? Then Brendoncare’s community clubs can help you achieve at least one, if not all of these.
Our network of community clubs in Hampshire is there to bring older people closer together. The clubs are places where friendships are made, activities are enjoyed and skills are discovered.
They provide opportunities to try out new activities which can improve physical and mental health, heightened a feeling of wellbeing and being part of something special.
Now let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of the community clubs.
Mind, body and soul:
The activities Brendoncare’s community clubs offer are designed with you in mind. We always listen to our members to see what they like doing the most. It’s clear they love all kinds of social activities where having fun together is their favourite part.
Staying active both mentally and physically are also important, so for the more cerebral, there are quizzes, with one regular online monthly quiz session. Many of our clubs feature a regular quiz as part of their activities.
Our physical activities come in all shapes and forms but most popular are our kurling and seated exercise clubs. These are accessible to members of all abilities. There is no barrier to keeping moving and having fun while enjoying the social side of this clubs.
The more energetic have sports like table tennis where eye coordination and fast footwork are key. Also for the movers and groovers are the dance fitness or line dancing clubs, where you can step out and stay healthy.
They say that singing is good for the soul – and you don’t have to sound like Celine Dion to enjoy the benefits our singing clubs can bring.
What we do know is trying out these new skills and staying sociable can stimulate the brain and help you stay mentally sharp.
Form new friendships:
Our community clubs allow people in later life to develop strong support networks and meet new people for the first time.
For Brian, one of our members, his local club has been a lifeline:
Research shows that people in later life who have strong friendships benefit from strong emotional well-being. They feel that they have people they can rely on and, as a result, they feel happier, more supported and loved, making them more resilient.
Online clubs:
Online clubs are another way Brendoncare members can connect with people in their local community from the comfort of their own homes.
Kate, Brendoncare community member, said: “I was quite apprehensive about Zoom join for the first time, but it was surprisingly easy. I received an invitation to a meeting by email and just clicked on the link. I used a laptop but it is equally easy with a desktop PC (which would need a webcam), a tablet such as an iPad or a smart phone.
“Going to a Zoom meeting certainly kept me sane during lockdown. I felt connected to other people and much less lonely and isolated. Even though we can now meet face to face, I still like being able to participate from the comfort of my own home and enjoy the interactive learning process.”
There is also the opportunity to volunteer in our homes or clubs. The Centre for Ageing Better reported on the benefits of making a contribution in later life and found evidence that older people who help others are happier as a result.
Interested in joining the Brendoncare community? Book a FREE taster session today to any one of our clubs!
Go to our website here to find clubs local to you. You can also give us a call on 01962 857099 or email clubs@brendoncare.org.uk where our friendly team will happily answer any questions you might have.
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