Why Senior Pen Pals?
An estimated 60 percent of nursing home residents never have visitors. During the COVID-19 crisis, this has increased sharply.
The benefits of writing are widespread; the U.S. Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language and Literacy identified a improvement in focus, increased cognitive skills, reduced symptoms of depression and reduced symptoms of anxiety as benefits of writing regularly.
As well as the above, for seniors and members of the public writing can provide a stronger sense of community connection.
About us
This initiative came about when the Bermudian public spoke out to a query and said yes!
Without the help of care homes, the government and the wider community this would not be possible.
Lakshmi Magon
Founder
I am a Bermudian community enthusiast and former researcher of communication and education for vulnerable communities. I was interested in this initiative due to the wonderful elders I have in my life and the great wisdom I've gained from them. We're losing out on opportunities for education, connection to our history, and friendship as there are far fewer opportunities for intergenerational friendship in Bermuda than there have been in the past. I hope to create some new opportunities with this initiative.