Simple Social Activities Can Help Delay Dementia

Social Activities Can Help Delay Dementia
Feb 3 2025 Share

A study conducted by Rush University followed 2,000 adults with an average age of 80 over five years, finding that those who were more socially active had a 38% lower risk of developing dementia.

Researchers believe that social engagement, puzzles, and interpersonal interactions play a key role in reducing this risk. Staying active in later life not only helps improve cognitive function but may also reduce dementia-related healthcare costs.

Regular social activities, like maintaining friendships and engaging in conversations, can make older adults more resilient to age-related cognitive decline. Future research is needed to explore whether interventions that promote social activity can further help prevent cognitive issues.

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Civil Protection Malta’s 8th Recruitment Course Nears Its End

Civil Protection Malta’s 8th Recruitment Course Nears Its End
Feb 3 2025 Share

Civil Protection Malta’s (CPM) 8th Recruitment Course is entering its final week, bringing six months of rigorous training to a close. The course, designed to equip recruits with essential skills in emergency response, has pushed participants to demonstrate dedication, discipline, and resilience.

As they approach the final stage of their training, CPM has praised the recruits for their commitment and hard work, encouraging them to stay focused in these final days. The intensive programme has tested both physical and mental endurance, preparing recruits for the challenges they will face in their new roles.

Once completed, the recruits will join the ranks of Civil Protection Malta, an essential force in disaster response, firefighting, and public safety operations across the country. The course’s end signifies a major achievement for the participants, marking their transition from trainees to fully-trained professionals.

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Animal Festival 2025: Celebration For Animal Protection

Animal Festival 2025: Celebration For Animal Protection
Feb 3 2025 Share

On Sunday, the Animal Festival 2025 took place in Ta’ Qali, drawing many families with their pets for a day dedicated to raising awareness about animal protection and celebrating the bond between humans and animals.

The event was inaugurated by Minister Anton Refalo and Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said, with Dr. Lydia Abela, the Prime Minister’s wife, along with Joseph John Vella, the Director for Animal Protection, and Alison Bezzina, the Commissioner for Animal Protection, also in attendance.

Families had the opportunity to connect with various volunteer organisations, veterinarians, animal trainers, and behaviourists, gaining valuable insights into animal care and protection services.

Volunteers from the Department for Animal Protection were present with dogs awaiting adoption, encouraging attendees to consider offering a loving home to these animals in need.

The event aimed to promote animal adoption and highlight the importance of animal rights.

Minister Anton Refalo underscored the significance of such events, stressing the Government’s ongoing commitment to improving animal welfare. He highlighted that these activities complement the measures and reforms the Government has implemented to safeguard animals.

Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said praised the festival as a testament to the Government’s dedication to animals, emphasising the importance of policies that prioritise animal well-being.

The event also saw the opening of the Pet Memorial Garden in Ta’ Qali, a tranquil space for families to remember lost pets. The garden features statues and benches, creating a peaceful environment for reflection.

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Hal Tarxien Joins Other Localities With Active Ageing Centre

Hal Tarxien Joins Other Localities With Active Ageing Centre
Feb 3 2025 Share

Through an agreement with the Hal Tarxien Local Council, the Active Aging Centre has been officially launched in the locality of Hal Tarxien.

This centre will offer a safe space where elderly people can meet, attend educational and social sessions, and remain active within their community.

With this new centre, the number of localities with Active Aging Centres has reached 35, with over 2,500 seniors regularly attending these centres. The centre in Hal Tarxien will operate from the hall at Dar Nazareth, in collaboration between the Local Council and Active Aging and Community Care.

The centre’s program is designed to promote lifelong learning, provide knowledge about physical and mental health, and strengthen social interaction among the seniors in Hal Tarxien.

Parliamentary Secretary for Active Aging, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, emphasised that Active Aging Centres are an important pillar for seniors to stay active and independent in their communities.

He highlighted the Government’s commitment to continue investing in these centres so more seniors can participate in educational and social activities that help them maintain an active lifestyle.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, praised the Hal Tarxien Local Council and Active Aging and Community Care for this agreement, which will benefit many seniors.

The Mayor of Hal Tarxien, Joseph Abela Galea, expressed his satisfaction that the Local Council is providing space for this service, which will offer a positive and supportive environment for the elderly.

This centre will be open every Friday, hosting a variety of educational and social sessions for seniors. These initiatives are essential for ensuring that the elderly remain an active part of their community, enjoying activities that enhance their quality of life.

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