This year’s IDOP gave seniors a platform to give thanks to others.

 

The National Council of Social Service (NCSS) held its “Seniors Give Thanks!” campaign in conjunction with International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) Singapore, which happened in October. The campaign provided a platform for the community including voluntary welfare organisations (VWOs) to engage seniors and for seniors to reconnect with their loved ones through simple acts of gratitude. This further contributes to strengthened social relationships, according to NCSS. A study done in the US in 2013 showed that seniors who expressed gratitude reported much lower depressive symptoms and significantly greater positive effect.

In the card that was used to give thanks to others, seniors could folk an origami hydrangea – a floral symbol of heartfelt gratitude – and present it to the person they wanted to thank.

Initiated by NCSS in 2014, this year’s IDOP Singapore has gained strong support with close to 40 social service organisations, community and corporate partners, Community Development Councils and grassroots.

 

 

Watch these three videos below on how seniors expressed their gratitude:

 

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