16 April 2025 – SJM Resorts, S.A. (“SJM”) and the Macau Holy House of Mercy have jointly expanded the scope of their "My ElderFriend Programme" this year to include “senior elders,” specifically elderly individuals with limited mobility or serious dementia. The programme recently conducted training sessions on 26 March and 16 April for 18 and 21 volunteers, respectively. The training focused on dementia awareness and communication skills for engaging with the elderly, equipping volunteers to serve elders who wish to participate in the friendship programme more effectively.

The training, designed by the nursing home supervisors and led by its senior social workers, provided professional guidance to approximately 43 participants, including SJM volunteers and coordinators. Following this training, the first phase of the programme will support approximately ten mobility-impaired elders with dementia, while also visiting 17 elders who had established preliminary connections through the programme last year.

Ms. Lam, an SJM volunteer who recently completed the training, expressed her honour in participating in the “My ElderFriend Programme.” She stated that the training enhanced her communication and caregiving skills for senior elders, deepened her understanding of the needs and psychological challenges faced by those with dementia, and proved to be highly rewarding. She hopes the programme will bring warmth and joy to more elderly individuals.

Launched in early 2024, the “My ElderFriend Programme” aims to foster deep friendships between SJM volunteers and residents of Our Lady of Mercy Home for the Elderly through regular visits. The initiative seeks to help seniors feel a sense of community, promote their physical and mental well-being, and add warmth to their later years.