Growing up under the loving care of my maternal Grandmother, senior citizens have a special place in my heart. I was very heartened to learn that the People’s Association (PA) has launched the ‘Senior Academy’ with the key mission to encourage more seniors (50 years old and above) to pursue lifelong learning aspirations and lead an active, happy lifestyle. Through the Senior Academy, they can pick up new knowledge, skills, interests, and make new like-minded friends. This will enable them to continue to lead fulfilling lives and avoid feeling socially isolated.
I personally think this is such a brilliant initiative given Singapore’s ageing population. My Mum is a Pioneer Generation retiree. For the first few years of her retirement, she was caring for my nephew. But now she has more time on her hands, I would like to see her enjoy her golden years. Besides listening to her fav radio stations (FM95.8, FM97.2) and watching Taiwanese TV serials at home, I would encourage her to participate in this host of interesting courses awaiting her at the Community Clubs (CCs)!
The Golden Hobbyist Series
The Golden Hobbyist Series offers affordable and senior-friendly courses to keep Seniors’ Body, Mind and Soul agile.
Click here to download the Senior Academy course brochure for more information.
BODY
Keep Fit, Feel Good, Make New Friends! Workshops which promote a healthy and sociable lifestyle:
Some examples of the course include:
- Basic Massage & Essential Oils
- Laughter Exercise
- KpopXFitness – The Golden Edition
- Fun Cultural Dances
- Zumba Gold
MIND
Learning new skills can be fun, especially when you can make new friends. These interesting courses will keep your minds stimulated!
Some examples of the courses include:
- Finance 101
- The Basics of Scrapbooking
- Fun with Sudoku
- Learn English through Songs
- Mobile Photography
SOUL
Nurture your souls by picking up a new hobby and share your craft with your family and friends!
Some examples of the courses include:
- Garden in a Bottle
- Fun with Ukulele
- Festive Balloon Sculpting
- Golden Home Chefs Series
- Fun with Herbs
Seniors who complete 10 Core + Elective courses within 4 months will receive a ‘Senior Wellness’ Certificate. For other Seniors, they can collect stamps on their rewards card which they can use to redeem mystery gifts.
Last Saturday, Dana and I attended ‘The Basics of Scrapbook Course’ to have an idea how a sample lesson in the Golden Hobbyist Series is conducted. Despite having no prior experience in making a shadow boxes, we made these in under 2 hours! I like the fact that the class was conducted in small group setting, in a cosy, air-conditioned environment at a CC nearby; all materials were provided; the instructions were not too hard for beginners and the trainer was friendly and helpful. The participants had ample time to craft, chat and mingle. I can foresee this would be an enjoyable and leisurely session which many Seniors would enjoy.
Dana’s shadow box, done with some of her favourite things: her Mommy & Daddy, her fav little brother, her love for animals and musicals (represented by Mufasa the Lion and Zazu the Hornbill from The Lion King).
My shadow box with things that makes my heart sing: my children and hubby, my love for gardening and yes, travelling round the world!
The Golden Work series
Besides hobbies, Senior Academy offers skill-based courses for seniors to acquire relevant skills for free-lance or part-time work. The courses are co-developed with community partners such as Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), FarEastFlora.com Pte Ltd, etc.
Click here to download the brochure on Golden Work series.
How to Register?
Register at these 10 Community Clubs island-wide to be part of the Senior Academy: Tanjong Pagar, Teck Ghee, Tampines West, Aljunied, MacPherson, Bedok, Nee Soon South, Fuchun, Gek Poh Ville and Clementi. and sign up for the courses via onePA website. If you have a senior in your home, encourage them to be part of the Senior Academy today!
For more information, visit the Senior Academy website or contact Lifeskills & Lifestyle Division of People’s Association at: Tel:8344 4129 / 9081 5580 (Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 6pm).
Disclaimer: We were invited for a Media Preview of the Senior Academy courses by the People’s Association. No monetary compensation was received. All opinions and photos are, as usual, ours (unless otherwise stated).
Daniel Lee says
Your URL is not working
Can’t download your brochure
Senior Academy Course and Golden Week Series
Can send me the correct URL or send me the PDF by email
Thank you
Angie. S says
Hi Daniel
thanks for visiting our blog. You can visit PA Senior Academy’s updated URL here: https://www.pa.gov.sg/Our_Programmes/Lifeskills_and_Lifestyle/Senior_Academy