The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.109)

2019 • 04 32 ocal News M alaysia’sMinistry of Health quoted the UnitedNations in stating that the ratio ofMalaysians aged 60 and above is estimated to increase to 10 percent of the total population, or 3.4 million people, by 2020, indicating Malaysia’s transition into an ageing society. With this in mind, Tzu Chi Malacca launched a “Care for the Elderly” programme this year, with the Elders’ Enrichment Centre as one of its initiatives. The Elders’ Enrichment Centre aims to foster an enjoyable learning environment for the elderly to encourage them to socialize and stay active in keeping with the spirit of lifelong learning. Approximately 20 Tzu Chi volunteers in their 70s signed up for the inaugural intake of classes. March 5, 2019 marked the first day of lessons for the seniors. After completing the registration procedure, the senior students were escorted to the Tzu-Chi Free Clinic to have their blood pressure levels, body temperature and weight measurements taken. During the second session on March 12, a dentist was invited to present a talk on dental care. The weekly lessons will introduce the students to a variety of topics, enabling them to discover a diverse range of unique experiences. The enrichment activities arranged for the seniors include painting, lessons on the art of the tea ceremony, mind-stimulating games, music lessons, handicrafts and storytelling sessions. It is hoped that this pioneer batch of senior students will benefit from the classes and be motivated to reach out to other seniors and invite them to join Tzu Chi’s charitable cause. Most seniors in their golden years would have already retired and left their financial obligations behind. Yet, at the same time, they might be susceptible to loneliness and depression as they are likely to face the loss of their spouse or an empty nest. The Elders’ Enrichment Centre provides a platform for the elderly to pursue lifelong learning, empowering them to lead a meaningful life. Encouraging Lifelong Learning for Seniors Malacca 2019.03.05 & 03.12 Translated by Chang Yii Yong Reported by Loh Siew Chien Photograph by Yong Siew Lee