“Young children, apart from their studies, should engage in a sport and a hobby so that they can continue to pursue them post-retirement and have a good social circle,” urged J.P.Janakan, Managing Editor of Adyar Times. He was speaking at the inauguration of the inter-generational summer camp ‘Fun with Thathas, Pattis, Perans and Pethis’, at The Dementia Care Foundation (TDCF).
The camp, held from May 5 to 10, aimed to build camaraderie between the generations through fun games, while also sensitising the youngsters about dementia and dementia care. “Dementia is a degenerative disease. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed,” explained Gayathri Ananthakrishnan, MD of TDFC.
The foundation is an NGO that provides daycare, inpatient care, caregiver support groups, caregiver trainings and cognitive screening services in Thoraipakkam and Mylapore. “A lot of the elders don’t have their grandchildren here, and many of the children here also don’t have grandparents. This camp provides a social environment for both generations where they can learn skills in a supportive environment. We started this camp in 2024 and this is our second edition,” Gayathri added.
This year’s edition was marked by a rich collaboration with external facilitators who generously contributed their time and expertise:
- Yoga Vahini – Led therapeutic yoga sessions to enhance physical and mental well-being.
- Decathlon – Hosted dynamic sports activities that encouraged movement and teamwork.
- Leo’s Dance Academy – Brought energy and creativity through expressive dance sessions.
- Elite Laughter Yoga Club from Casa Grand Zenith – Uplifted everyone with laughter yoga therapy.
- Darash Ahava Foundation – Conducted creative arts and bonding sessions with the elders and children.
A few elder women from Vishranthi Home for the Aged and Destitute at Palavakkam also participated. For more information, contact TDFC at 93442 57901, 24964555; www.thedementiacarefoundation.com.
