Lagos, Nigeria — Members of the Reconnect Dynamics Group gathered at an outdoor funfair in Lagos to promote active and joyful ageing among senior citizens. The event featured body exercises, traditional games, dancing, and social interaction, designed to encourage fresh air and physical movement for retirees.
Mrs. Elizabeth Adedeji, the founder of the group, stated that the primary mission of the funfair was to create a recreational and relaxing experience for the elderly. She highlighted the importance of stepping away from air-conditioned environments to enjoy fresh air and oxygen, which she described as essential for healthy living cells. “Most of us enjoy staying in air-conditioned rooms, cars and offices without adequate intake of oxygen... But today we enjoyed ourselves playing games which really enriched the brain,” Adedeji said.
The organisation was established following observations by medical practitioners and ministers of God who noted that many elderly people were struggling with loneliness and inactivity. Abayomi Ogunbekun, a Trustee of the group, explained that Reconnect Dynamics was formed to provide a platform for widows, retirees, and those with empty nests to avoid a sedentary lifestyle. “Instead of living a sedentary life, they now have a place to reconnect,” Ogunbekun said, noting that the group has previously organised excursions to Abeokuta, boat cruises, and gala nights.
Participants described the event as a meaningful opportunity to rebuild social connections. Mrs. Margaret Fasehun, a first-time guest from the diaspora, recalled watching two elderly men play the traditional game of ayó, a skill she had forgotten but relearned during the event. “It’s beautiful to be growing older together and learning from each other,” she said, expressing her intention to join future programmes whenever she is in Nigeria.
Long-time member Mrs. Bose Ogunsanwo, who is in her 70s, shared that she joined the group to avoid ageing in the manner of her parents, whom she described as having a negative outlook on old age. Having travelled internationally since 1972, she found renewed joy in local outings organised by the group, such as a recent trip to Abeokuta by train. “I decided early that I am going to enjoy old age. And I am,” she said.
Other members emphasised the necessity of staying physically and socially engaged. Cessy Ogunnaike advised participants to recall activities that brought them happiness in their youth and to maintain friendships. “You must have your kind of people to form friendships that last... As you get older, if you don’t move your limbs, other parts of the body become weak,” Ogunnaike said. Reconnect Dynamics aims to replace isolation with community, asserting that retirement can be a period for learning new skills and reviving old hobbies.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>