Bo-Kaap seniors' club thrives despite relocation
Members of Bo-Kaap Daycare Centre for the Aged meet every Monday at Schotesche Kloof civic centre, from 10am until 12.30pm.
Image: Fouzia van der Fort
A Bo-Kaap seniors' club is taking a break for Ramadaan, the month of fasting for Muslims.
The fasting month is due to start on Thursday, February 19, depending on the sighting of the moon. They will be back to weekly meetings on Monday, April 6.
Bo-Kaap Daycare Centre for the Aged, a 26-year-old community seniors' club, started at Vista High School and moved to Schotsche Kloof Civic Centre about five years ago, where members meet every Monday, from 10am until 12.30pm.
Coordinator Sharifa Fredericks said the club was originally intended to be a daily meeting place for the elderly, but it never materialised.
She said when they moved, activities dwindled. Members were not as enthusiastic about embroidery, arts, crafts, and being more involved with activities of service - cooking food or engaging in activities with the pupils.
The club has 30 members, predominantly women, although they are open to men becoming members.
Leaders of the Bo-Kaap Daycare Centre for the Aged, Mymoena Ismail, Sharifa Fredericks and Jasmien Davids.
Image: Fouzia van der Fort
The club's age requirement is 55 and older, and the applicant should be independent. "We look after each other, but sometimes the member may need a bit more care," she said.
There are no membership fees, making it accessible to all seniors in the area.
Ms Fredericks said the club offered a range of activities designed to keep members engaged and healthy. These include exercise sessions, various crafts, and outings.
The club also hosts wellness checks, including weekly blood pressure and blood sugar readings.
The oldest and longest-standing member, Mariam Sterris, 89, said she joined from the beginning.
"My grandson wasn't born yet. My grandchildren were raised in the club," she said.
She enjoys being a golden oldie athlete and often attends games of her favourite and local community's Schotsche Kloof Walmers rugby football club.
"I like to enjoy myself here, and I learn a lot," she said.
On Tuesday, February 10, members will be taking a train from Cape Town station to Kalk Bay. All members are to meet at the station at 9 am. This would be their last meeting before the fast.
For more information, or to join the club, call Ms Fredericks 082 696 7194.