From isolation to inclusion – Shireen’s journey with Hopscotch Women’s Centre

How a community project transformed an elderly woman’s life through social activities and support programs

Situation 

Shireen, an elderly woman living with her son and his family, was struggling with loneliness and deteriorating health. Her feelings of isolation were exacerbated by her limited social interactions and declining mental health. Recognising the urgent need for support, her family contacted Hopscotch and arranged an appointment with our Project Coordinator for Older Women’s Support Group. 

Initial Assessment

During the initial appointment, our Coordinator gently guided Shireen through the registration process to identify her specific needs and how our programme could address them. It became clear that Shireen’s isolation and depression required a multifaceted approach to improve her overall well-being.

Tailored Support

Since joining Hopscotch, Shireen has been actively participating in weekly sessions, steadily rebuilding her confidence and enhancing her quality of life. Social outings became a regular part of her routine, offering her the chance to connect with others and explore new environments.

Learning to use a mobile phone and WhatsApp enabled Shireen to maintain regular contact with her family and friends, significantly reducing her feelings of isolation. Physical activity sessions, tailored to her abilities, improved her health and energy levels, while health and well-being workshops provided her with valuable knowledge and practices for managing her health more effectively.

Swimming classes were a fun and engaging way to boost her physical fitness and provided a supportive social setting. Collaborative cooking sessions allowed Shireen to learn new skills and bond with others over shared meals. Cultural excursions to iconic locations like Kew Gardens enriched her experiences and broadened her horizons. Shireen also became more confident in using public transport and smartphones, further enhancing her independence and integration into the community.

Impact

Shireen’s journey is a powerful testament to the transformative power of social inclusion programmes for elderly individuals facing isolation and depression. Regular social interactions and gaining new skills have significantly diminished her loneliness and improved her self-confidence. 

As Shireen’s trust in our programme grew, she was referred to Hopscotch’s Camden Memory Project, which explores the holistic aspects of dementia. She now attends CMS sessions twice a month, adding another layer of support and enrichment to her life.