Following the success of the first bocce pitch at the Mtarfa nursing home, a second bocce pitch has now been inaugurated in a residential home – this time at Dar il-Madonna tal-Mellieħa. This project, led by Active Aging and Community Care (AAKK), is part of the ongoing commitment to offering more opportunities for physical and social activity for the elderly.
This bocce pitch was built at Dar il-Madonna tal-Mellieħa after a number of residents showed a strong interest in this sport and also participated in the opening of the Mtarfa pitch. In this project, special attention was given to accessibility so that people with physical difficulties, including those using wheelchairs, can participate.
The Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, stressed that these initiatives are showing how investment in physical and social activity is yielding good results. “The experience at the Mtarfa pitch has shown us that the elderly are enjoying this sport and that is why we have continued to invest. We are now working to identify areas in more residential homes, including in St Vincent de Paul, in order to invest in more spaces where the elderly have the possibility to participate in this sport that helps them stay active both mentally and physically”, concluded the parliamentary secretary.
The sport of bowls not only offers physical and mental activity but also encourages social interaction, especially among men who are often reluctant to participate in other activities.
The pitch will be available to residents of the home, those attending the Day Centre, as well as seniors from the community. The AAKK is also planning tournaments between residential homes and the community, so that seniors have more opportunities to meet and have fun together.
Photo (DOI/MHA_PS)
