KUCHING: The intergenerational approach highlighted in the Senior Citizens’ Mental Awareness Workshop has strengthened ties between youth and senior citizens, while raising awareness on the importance of mental health.
Pustaka Negeri Sarawak Chief Executive Officer Japri Bujang Masli said the workshop aimed to provide exposure on the need to care for mental health among the elderly, while fostering awareness of the emotional and psychological support required by this group.
“In today’s modern world, senior citizens risk feeling excluded from society as they enter a new phase of life, with lifestyle changes from once being socially active to having fewer face-to-face interactions due to the use of technology such as gadgets and social media.
“This also happens when their children are working, leaving them feeling lonely and with limited interaction.
“With initiatives like this, we can create a healthy social environment, which is essential for ensuring good mental health and quality of life,” he said.
He said this to the reporters at Bengkel Cakna Minda Warga Emas at Exhibition Gallery, Pustaka Negeri Sarawak here on Friday.
Japri explained that the intergenerational concept applied in the programme was particularly valuable, as interaction between young people and the elderly encouraged two-way communication, built empathy, and fostered mutual understanding and respect.
“When the elderly interact with the young, bridging the age gap and sharing life experiences, it helps to ease feelings of emptiness because, by nature, we are social beings who need community,” he said.
The workshop, organised by the Digital Senior Citizens Club (DIWARMAS) in collaboration with Pustaka Negeri Sarawak, was attended by about 35 participants comprising senior citizens and youth.
“This participation not only focuses on the mental health of the elderly but also provides opportunities for young people to offer support and assistance throughout the sessions,” he added.
He further noted that most participants were active DIWARMAS members who regularly join digital literacy sessions held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at Pustaka Negeri Sarawak.
“This initiative is an ongoing effort to empower senior citizens in the digital world, helping them to remain relevant and independent in their daily lives.
“Structured and socially engaging activities have proven effective in reducing the risk of depression, loneliness, and social isolation among the elderly,” he explained.
He hoped that more high-impact programmes of this kind could be implemented on a continuous basis to ensure the mental and social well-being of senior citizens in Sarawak.
