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MONA AGEING AND WELLNESS CENTRE
Computer Classes Computer classes for older adults have been suspended. The programme is under review and a more expansive information technology programme is being designed to address the needs of older adults. Gym The gym was reopened in July 2023. MAWC staff facilitate supervised exercise sessions twice a week at no cost to adults 60 years and over. Benefits of the exercise programme are already evident with improvements in clients’ health and fitness (determined objectively and subjectively). Dissemination of Ageing Information The Centre hosted four webinars and participated in one on-Campus wellness event over the period. The first webinar held August 5, 2022 was dubbed ‘Re-ignited for Purpose’ and was held in recognition of Jamaica’s 60 th anniversary of independence. Panellists reflected on the 1962 celebrations in Jamaica and discussed older adults’ role in modern Jamaica. The second webinar, ‘Navigating Dementia’ (August 10, 2022), targeted the general public and caregivers to persons with dementia in two concurrent sessions. The session for the general public was focussed on increasing awareness about the condition while the session for caregivers provided space for those affected by dementia to share struggles, exchange ideas, and learn coping strategies. The remaining two webinars were held during the afore-mentioned Careers in Ageing Week . One featured men in the field of ageing and explored the role and value of men as advocates and programme leaders in ageing. The other explored engaging seniors through art and discussed possible benefits including social, emotional, and physical benefits. MAWC participated in the UWI Wellness Day activities on March 22, 2023. We had a booth display and disseminated information focussing on a life course approach to health and wellness. We also provided COVID-19 vaccination services. Our involvement in this Campus-wide initiative provided the opportunity share with internal stakeholders and promote the message of health and wellness within our Campus community. The Centre continued the online initiative of engaging the public through its Face- book and Instagram pages. These channels allow for the disseminating of valuable information to the public on a variety of topical ageing issues and allows for mutual exchanges between the Centre and its stakeholders. We are developing a social media strategy for more focused and consistent engagement with our audiences.
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