YOUNG people could do much to brighten up the lives of the elderly by helping them stay in touch with the outside world, said a veteran social worker.
Kwong Yum Home for the Aged superintendent Ong So-heung said bridging the gap between the elderly and the rest of the community was especially important for those who lived in homes for the aged.
Ms Ong said residents at the home where she worked had opportunities to meet a variety of visitors, but it was just as important for them 'to go out and see the world'.
'That way they get to see changes in society and meet friends outside their own age group,' she said.
She also pointed out that group activities and outings had a positive effect on the elderly.
'They become active, more open-minded and positive in their outlook.' As superintendent of the home, Ms Ong said she would like to see more groups organising activities for the residents. She suggested that students could make use of their long holidays to arrange outdoor games and programmes for old people.
