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We went to the Lion Befrienders centre to carry out various activities that we have planned for the elderly. Our first activity was origami where we taught the elderly how to fold different shapes such as heart shapes and paper cranes. Next, we played volleyball where we gathered in a circle to toss the ball to each other while remaining on our seats. Additionally, we taught the elderly how to play virtual mahjong using the app “mahjong leh'' using our laptops, iPads and phones. To blend in with the National Day atmosphere, we also helped the elderly to put National Day tattoos on their arms. At the end, we also had a National Day cake for them to eat.

This service learning project was an eye opening experience for most of us as we got the opportunity to interact with the elderly. It reminded us of our grandparents and they were really friendly and kind. Despite the initial awkward atmosphere and the language barriers our group faced, we were able to adapt quickly to the situation and interact with the seniors in a much more relaxed manner, partly due to the lively character of all the seniors. Many students in the group said that the experience was akin to having a casual chat with an elder relative, gaining an insight into the seniors’ lives while engaging in various activities together with them. It was definitely heartening to see all of the students talking excitedly with the seniors, laughing together and having fun. Despite the short duration of the session, us students and seniors alike truly enjoyed the activities and more importantly, the conversations we shared amongst each other. Throughout this meaningful experience, we certainly valued the company of the seniors as we got a chance to learn more about them. The seniors also showed to all of us that aging gracefully is not difficult at all. Many of them participated actively in the activities and made the students laugh by telling us jokes and personal anecdotes from their teenage years. For us students, we all left with unique experiences that we would not forget.