Visit of Psychology Department and College of Dental Medicine Students to the Elderly Care Home in Sharjah Prepared by: Psychology Department – College of Humanities and Sciences
Tuesday, Nov 26, 2024
Visit of Psychology Department and College of Dental Medicine Students to the Elderly Care Home in Sharjah Prepared by: Psychology Department – College of Humanities and Sciences Date of Visit: Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Supervision by Psychology Department: Dr. Shimaa Basha
Supervision by College of Dental Medicine: Dr. Samah Taleb
Introduction: As part of promoting social responsibility and fulfilling the mission of the University of Science and Technology in Fujairah, the Psychology Department and the College of Dental Medicine organized a joint visit to the Elderly Care Home in Sharjah. The visit included psychological and health activities aimed at improving the quality of life of the residents and supporting the caregivers. Students from both departments contributed by offering interactive and awareness programs that align with the university's goals of community service.
Objectives of the Visit:
1. Provide psychological and social support to the elderly to enhance their well-being and comfort.
2. Raise health awareness among caregivers to provide better care for residents.
3. Link theoretical education with practical application in the fields of psychology and public health.
4. Enhance collaboration between university departments to achieve shared community goals.
Details of the Visit:
1. Program Schedule
o Welcoming the participants at the Elderly Care Home in Sharjah by the management.
o Introducing the students to the programs and services of the care home through a welcoming speech by the management.
Psychology Department Students: Held a dialogue session with the residents, listening to their stories and experiences, including activities to stimulate positive memories.
College of Dental Medicine Students: Conducted an awareness activity on oral health care for the elderly for the caregivers.
A workshop presented by the College of Dental Medicine students under the supervision of Dr. Samah Taleb on preventive measures for common oral health issues among the elderly.
Distribution of instructional pamphlets to caregivers on the importance of daily oral hygiene.
o Joint recreational and social activities between students and residents, including games and competitions to foster positive interaction.
o Presentation of symbolic gifts to residents and caregivers.
o Concluding the visit with a thank-you note to the care home's management for their cooperation.
Positive Outcomes:
• For Students:
o Psychology Department Students: Gained practical experience interacting with the elderly and applying their psychological skills.
o College of Dental Medicine Students: Enhanced their skills in providing health education and communicating with different community groups.
• For Residents and Caregivers:
o Residents: Expressed their happiness with activities that improved their mood and reduced feelings of isolation.
o Caregivers: Benefited from the health information provided, which will help improve daily care for the residents.
Recommendations:
• Continue organizing joint visits between departments to promote community interaction.
• Expand the scope of programs to include additional psychological and health activities.
• Offer training courses for caregivers on specialized health and psychological topics.
Conclusion: The visit by the students of the Psychology Department and the College of Dental Medicine to the Elderly Care Home emphasized the importance of collaboration between academic departments in serving the community and promoting human values. This initiative had a positive impact on both the residents and students, serving as an encouraging step for similar future initiatives.
