Introduction
The BLESSED Project has started a three-year pilot programme in Sha Tin District since June 2012. It operates in collaboration with the Geriatric Psychiatric Unit of Shatin Hospital and the Prince of Wales Hospital in a model of Medical-Social Collaboration. The programme serves elders who are aged 60 or above with emotional distress or depression and provides emotional and life support.
In October 2015, we gained the sponsorship from the Community Chest for the extension of 3 years’ services.
Our multi-disciplinary team consists of social workers, nurses and physiotherapists to provide 6-month programme (twice a week) with emotional support and to help elderly to establish a healthy lifestyle.
Target
Elderly aged 60 or above living in Sha Tin, and:
1. who are living in the community but suffered from emotional distress or depression symptoms, and
2. who are discharged from and referred by Psychogeriatrics in Shatin Hospital or Psychiatry in the Prince of Wales Hospital.
Objectives
1. To plan or establish a healthy lifestyle for the elderly;
2. To promote positive emotion and self-management ability of the elderly,and enhance
their self-confidence;
3. To form peer and community support network;
4. To support and relieve stress of caregivers and to promote harmonious family relationships;
5. To raise the community awareness on elderly depression, to support and offer care to the elderly.
Service Scopes
1. Rehabilitation Care
Health assessment, physiotherapy, home environmental assessment, physical exercise and cognitive trainings.
2. Emotional Health Management
Counselling and metal health support groups.
3. Social Life
Social activity groups, interest groups and outdoor activities.
4. Healthy Diet
Customerised breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea for the elderly.
5. Transportation and Escort Services
6. Peer Support Programme
Regular home visits and warm calls by trained volunteers, and companion in
interested groups and trips.
7. BLESSED Net
“BLESSED Net” is a programme specially designed for the participants who have completed the 6-month “Healthy Lifestyle” programme
to form a peer support network. Different types of activities will be organised regularly to facilitate the communication between the
participants and their families or caregivers. Our ultimate goal is to establish a community-based self-help network.
Charges and Application Method
$500 per month (6 months in total)
Referred by social workers.。
Join our “Peer Support Volunteer Group”
You are invited to become our “Peer Support Volunteers” to offer care and support to the elderly who
suffered from emotional distress or depression which help them regain joy in life.
Target: For whom who are determined to help those elderly with mental distress
Recipients: Elderly aged 60 or above living in Sha Tin District and suffered from mental distress or depression
Service Scopes: Warm calls, home visits, promotion and education in community
Enquiry and Application
Applicants may contact hospitals, social service agencies or us for enquiries and referrals.
Contact and Enquiry
Address: G/F, 1 Lek Yuen Street, Sha Tin, New Territories
Tel: 2608 2598
Website: http://www.elderly.bokss.org.hk
