CHAT
GROUPS
Dem Days Chat Groups have one objective - Let’s talk LIFE!
Put very simply, a Dem Days Chat Group is a concept (or simple idea) that anyone who would like to, could start and run anytime, anywhere.
The purpose of a Dem Days Chat Group is to provide older people with another opportunity to exercise their minds and enjoy themselves through people contact.
There is no set format for how a group operates, and no set rules.
Anyone wanting to start a group is encouraged to determine a structure or format that works for them.
A Dem Days Chat Group would make an ideal project for an individual or a Church or community group, just to name three.
All it takes for a group to be established is for someone who has a heart for older people, to embrace the concept, plan it and arrange for someone (or several people on a rotation basis) to “Host” it.
Steps to start a typical Dem Days Chat Group
There is no one size fits all so this example should be used as a guide only. “Hosts” can set up what suits and works for them.
Think about:
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Who you want to invite?
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Where to hold meetings?
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How often you’ll meet?
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The length of each meeting?
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The format of each meeting?
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What you want to achieve?
Dem Days started it’s very first Chat Group like this:
Who we invited?
We started a group inside an aged care facility. Residents were advised of the group and invited to come along.
Where we hold it?
We held meetings in the general-purpose room at the aged care facility.
How often we meet?
We meet weekly.
How many attended?
After 6 meetings, between 6 and 10 residents attend regularly.
How long is each meeting?
Each meeting runs for approximately an hour to an hour and a half.
What format do we adopt?
We allow the first half hour for fellowship and a cuppa. The second half to three quarters of an hour is for group discussion about “Dem Days” (old times and memories) and we finish off with further fellowship time.
What we want to achieve?
Our objective is simply to help fill some of the void for those residents who battle loneliness, isolation and boredom on a daily basis. We do this by providing another activity for residents to consider and enjoy, one that connects people and provides opportunity for fellowship and engaging in conversation.
Chat Group Topics
Topics for a Dem Days Chat Group are endless and often, talking about one topic will lead to others. Again, the objective is not so much about the topic but about the fellowship and interaction. Inviting occasional guests to join the group as a participant or as a guest speaker is also an option.
To help shape your thinking and get you started, here are a few ideas.