Participation is the highlight of the day

– “It's a Thursday, but it could as well be some other day. We have a packed schedule for every weekday!” the instructor Jouni Laaksamo says with a smile.  

Laaksamo notes that the varied offerings at the Soukka Service Centre are planned collectively by the entire wellbeing promotion team.

– “The core activities are consistent across all service centres and even in areas without one.”

In addition, both clients and volunteers are involved in the planning process.

– “We continually receive valuable insights from our clients to refine our operations We also initiated client councils in the spring to amass feedback, ideas, and suggestions. During this autumn – based on the feedback we received – we have introduced activities such as Monday quizzes and community singing sessions,” Laaksamo shares.

Traditional paper advertisements are the primary means of promoting Soukka's activities, as they have been deemed most effective.

– “Our paper schedules are eagerly getting picked up at the onset of every autumn. That said, we also advertise on the Wellbeing Services County's website and on our Facebook page. And we keep our partners updated on our schedule. Clients also find us via Senior Info, and we even actively reach out to potential clients to inform them about the centre’s offerings.”

Yet, Laaksamo still encounters those who remain unaware of the happenings at the Soukka Service Centre.

– “Many people mistakenly think this is a nursing or retirement home. I liken it more to a youth centre for seniors!”

Laaksamo encourages the elderly to participate, emphasizing the good it can do.

– “For many individuals, our centre brings routine and an enlivens their social lives; conversations here might be their only social interaction of the day. For others, activities such as chair exercises help to maintain physical capability. And for some, crafting, knitting, or pottery in good company is exactly what they need.”

The ceramic workshop led by artist Terttu Riippi is brimming with one stunning artwork after another. At a large table, two seniors are focused on their art, while others have taken a coffee break.

Anja Rajamäki showcases her hedgehog-inspired piece.

– “I come here every Thursday. I have a strong urge to create,” says Rajamäki, who was even a founding member of the Soukka art society.   

Maria Helenius, also a member of the art society, joins the conversation.

– “The group is wonderful. You get inspiration and ideas from others, and we have so much fun! It’s such a breath of fresh air, an incredible place,” praises Helenius, who has been involved in many of the Soukka Service Centre's activities.   

– If any senior is still hesitant, I’d say it’s worth joining. There are no expectations here; everyone can come just as they are,” she adds.

Both Rajamäki and Helenius speak highly of the instructor Terttu Riippi, who also finds the work immensely rewarding.

– “Creating art gives you so much that it’s almost unbelievable. I would probably be bedridden because of all my flaws and issues if I hadn't taken up something like this,” she reflects and encourages everyone to join in, Asserting, “Everyone can do it!”

Kainalojuttu:

Stepping outside the home, mingling with others, and participating in activities provide meaningful experiences and support one's ability to manage daily challenges.

Elina Kvist, Service Manager of Elderly Services at the Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County, says that joining activities gives the elderly concrete ways to take care of their wellbeing.

– “When you go out, you get to move, talk, and maybe try new things. This opens up new horizons, reduces stress and pain, activates your mind, boosts your mood, and strengthens your resilience,” she says.

Participating in activities can also inspire people to take better care of themselves.

– “The future might start to feel brighter. And one also gets the opportunity to share and enjoy things with people who understand,” Kvist adds.

She emphasizes that wellbeing activities are for everyone, regardless of age or physical condition.  

– “Some want to exercise with others, some seek company for conversation, and others thirst for new knowledge. It’s never too late to get excited and start discovering what one needs and which activity suits best for oneself. No need to know in advance,” she says.

The Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County organizes wellbeing activities, for example, at service centres for the elderly and at municipal meeting places. You can also find wellbeing activities offered by the county’s municipalities, local organisations and associations, and institutions such as adult education centres.

For example, in Kirkkonummi, you have a lot of choices for activities that enhance your wellbeing.

– “You can choose from activities that support physical activity, outdoor companionship, buddy or group chats, book clubs, musical events and performances, information events, various hobbies, and excursions,” says Service Manager Pirjo Heinojoki-Pellinen.

There is a strong collaboration with other organisations that provide activities for seniors.

– “The municipality, for example, offers exercise options, and the library hosts various activities and events. The parish also helps to fight elderly loneliness with initiatives such as the Ellen Olohuone meeting place and volunteer programs. In collaboration with organisations, we encourage active participation and offer activities for seniors.

Heinojoki-Pellinen invites seniors to leave their homes and join events or meet people.

– “You have nothing to lose. If an activity is not for you, we can look for other options together. Many seniors who tried group activities ended up staying for a long time, some even for several years,” she says.

Feedback from seniors is overwhelmingly positive and appreciative.

– “The company of others, shared experiences, and collaborative efforts are important and motivate people to join. Such experiences are often the highlight of their day, and the pleasant atmosphere in the group brings joy for a longer time."

Some feedback concerns the lack of information about certain group or events.

– “Many ask: “Why didn’t I come here sooner? Why didn’t I know about these activities? We still need to work on making sure everyone interested knows about the groups and events.”

Heinojoki-Pellinen trusts in the power of collaboration.

– “Tell your elderly relatives, friends, or neighbors, and challenge them to join. Why not come together?”

Information on local opportunities can be found online at www.luvn.fi/en search for: hyvinvointia ikääntyneille (“ well-being for the elderly”)

Alternatively, call the Senior Info counselling service 
029 1512 270 Senior Info (Eastern Region): Espoo, Kauniainen, Kirkkonummi

OR
029 1512 280 Senior Info (Western Region): Hanko, Inkoo, Karkkila, Lohja, Raasepori, Siuntio ja Vihti.