Golden Designs Tabloid

‘Honouring a Golden Legacy, Shaping a Bold Future’ - Participants of the Art Class for Seniors September is a special month for older Jamaicans. Across the island, National Senior Citizens Month 2026 will bring together seniors, families, communities, organisations, and service providers to celebrate the contributions of older persons while creating opportunities for them to remain active, connected, and engaged. Spearheaded by the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) , this year’s commemoration takes place from September 1 to October 1, 2026, under the inspiring theme: ‘Honouring a Golden Legacy, Shaping a Bold Future’ The theme is a reminder that ageing is not simply about looking back at what has been accomplished. It is also about recognising the possibilities that lie ahead. Older persons continue to contribute to families, communities, businesses, and Jamaica’s social and cultural life in countless ways. This year is even more significant as the National Counc...

Older Adults at the Centre of Enterprise A BOLD national initiative aimed at unlocking the entrepreneurial potential of Jamaica’s senior citizens has officially been launched, signalling a new chapter in how the country views ageing, productivity, and economic participation. The Senior Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) , an islandwide training initiative spearheaded by Golden Designs with funding support from the Digicel Foundation , was officially launched on Thursday, April 9, at Regardless (The Manley Centre) in St. Andrew. The programme targets more than 200 older adults across Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Thomas, Manchester, and St. James. Funded through the Digicel Foundation’s Salute 21 Grant under its Silver Economy initiative, the programme forms part of a strategic effort to empower older adults through economic participation. The grant programme commemorates Digicel Foundation’s 21st anniversary and supports projects focused on special needs, digital literacy, and oppo...

HURRICANE MELISSA howled through Jamaica, it left behind damaged homes, heartbreak, uncertainty, and loss. Among the hardest hit are our beloved senior citizens. Many of whom now live in unhealthy and unpleasant circumstances, struggling without power, clean water, food, or even basic clothing. At Golden Designs, we believe that our seniors, who have given so much to this country and their families, deserve dignity, care, and compassion. That’s why we’ve launched the Hurricane Melissa Relief Drive for Senior Citizens , a heartfelt initiative dedicated to bringing comfort and stability to older adults as they recover from this devastating storm. Standing with Our Seniors In this relief phase, our goal is simple yet vital. We aim to provide humanitarian assistance until some semblance of normalcy returns to the lives of our seniors. From now through the end of January, Golden Designs will be collecting and distributing relief supplies to senior citizens across the western parish...

Members of Golden Designs, Dr. Verona Barnes, second right, and Melva Yorke-Johnson, expressing appreciation for the sewing machines to Logos Hope Jamaica. GOLDEN DESIGNS is overjoyed to share that we are a proud recipient of Logos Hope’s Community Engagement initiative. Through this programme, our company has been blessed with three sewing machines and the priceless gift of time from Logos Hope volunteers who joined one of our art classes for seniors. For those unfamiliar, Logos Hope, affectionately known in Jamaica as the “book ship” , is much more than a floating bookstore. Owned and operated by GBA Ships, this vessel sails across the world promoting literacy, education, and cultural exchange. At every port, the Logos Hope team partners with local organisations, providing aid, encouragement, and opportunities that reflect God’s compassion for people of every background. A Welcome Gift to Empower Seniors The donation of three sewing machines could not have come at a better ...

Ashley Thompson/Media Intern Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, we are reminded of the critical importance of addressing mental health challenges and preventing the tragic loss of life through suicide. While the focus often turns to younger populations, it is crucial to shine a light on an often-overlooked group deeply affected by this issue — our seniors. As people age, the emotional, social, and physical challenges they face can increase their vulnerability to feelings of hopelessness and isolation, which may lead to suicide. This article explores the alarming rate of suicide among older adults, the unique factors that contribute to their struggles, and the steps we can take to support them in their most vulnerable moments. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in their 2023 article Suicide Prevention , defines suicide as a death caused by self-inflicted harm with the intent to die. Tragically, suicide does not discriminate by age, gender, race, or ethnicit...

Credit: Freepik.com Colliecia Wright/Media Intern A balanced lifestyle refers to having a sense of control and well-being in all areas of life. According to an article published by Physio West, written by Bec Clare (2020), balanced living involves achieving optimal health in various aspects including relationships, work, fitness, health, and emotional happiness. From an early age, we are taught the importance of balance in our lives. However, as we age, particularly upon entering the senior citizen stage, maintaining this balance can become challenging. The transition to this phase often brings many changes — retirement, adjustments in living environments, and new health challenges are common experiences for seniors. As an article by the World Health Organization (2022) points out, while some health variations among older adults are due to genetics, a significant portion is influenced by physical and social environments, such as their homes and communities, as well as personal fa...

Credit: ODPEM As Hurricane Beryl nears Jamaica, it’s essential for everyone, especially our senior citizens, to be well-prepared. The effects of a hurricane can be devastating, but with careful planning and preparation, you can ensure your safety and well-being. Here are some crucial tips to help seniors get ready for the potential impacts of Hurricane Beryl. 1. Create an Emergency Plan Emergency Contacts: Choose a contact person who will check on you during the hurricane, and decide how you will communicate (by telephone or knocking on doors). Make a list of people who can help you in times of disaster, including family members, doctors, pharmacies, caregivers, neighbours, and local emergency services. Medical Supplies: Ensure your medical information is readily available. Have an adequate supply of all necessary medications, medical equipment, and other health-related items to last at least seven days. Evacuation Plan: Know the nearest evacuation routes and shelters. Arran...

Senior citizens are being encouraged to become knowledgeable about the various laws that protect their rights as older adults. While Jamaica does not have an Elder Abuse Act, several pieces of legislation can be used to prevent or punish elder abuse. Attorney-at-law, Tamara Francis Riley-Dunn, has expressed concern over the increasing cases of elder abuse, noting that many senior citizens suffer in silence. Elder abuse can take many forms and primarily occurs due to the vulnerability and dependence experienced by seniors. “It is accepted that our elders are 60 years and older, and we are dealing with a vulnerable group who, due to their vulnerability, are dependent on others, which can lead to abuse,” she said. The veteran Jamaican attorney discussed the issue of elder abuse during an interview with Golden Conversations , an online programme for older adults. Every year on June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is commemorated in Jamaica and globally. The 2024 t...

Colliecia Wright/Media Intern May is observed as Mental Health Awareness Month , a time dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting the importance of mental well-being. While much of the focus often falls on younger populations, it's crucial to recognise that senior citizens also face significant mental health challenges. Anxiety, often intensified by the fear of the unknown, is a common yet overlooked issue among older adults. This article delves into the experiences of senior citizens grappling with anxiety and offers insights and strategies to manage this condition, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health at every stage of life. Photo credit: gstudioimagen1 on Freepik We live in a world constantly plagued with daily trials. People navigate life with uncertainties about their future plans and the well-being of those they care for most. As individuals progress through different stages of life, their worries often increase. Seni...

Contributed: The Lewises - 41 Years of Love Colliecia Wright/Media Intern Richard Bach once said, “True love stories never have endings” . Indeed, they don’t. For true love is not bound by time or circumstance; it transcends the material and the mundane, enduring through every trial and triumph. It is a steadfast beacon that guides us through life’s storms, reminding us of the profound bond we share with our beloved. The King and Queen of one vehicle, Samuel and Metlyn Lewis have kept Christ in the centre of their marriage for the past 41 years and counting. They have daily family devotion before taking on their activities for the day. The couple has three beautiful children, two boys and one girl. Embraced by the essence of St. Thomas, their love story is a testament to the power of faith and commitment. How did you meet? Their journey began amidst the hallowed halls of a school, where destiny wove their paths together in 1978. “I just left high school and went to this basic...

Empowering Older Women: A Vital Pillar of Health and Social Development Empowering older women is paramount for the well-being and advancement of families, communities, and nations. Age International highlights the invaluable yet often overlooked contributions of older women globally, as they provide crucial support to their families, communities, and economies through both paid and unpaid work. However, senior age can often usher in a sense of invisibility for many women. Their underrepresentation in data, media, and policy exacerbates this disregard. Globally, older women are less likely to participate in formal employment due to entrenched social norms dictating their roles in society. Moreover, when women do engage in paid work, they frequently encounter disparities in pay compared to men. Additionally, interruptions in their careers to raise children or care for others can lead to missed pension opportunities. Consequently, many older women find themselves compelled to wor...

Image: Freepik.com Well, it’s that time again when lovers unite. It’s that time again when they parade outside in their red and white. It warms my heart to see that love is in the air and for years I have longed for a love like this. This is why I decided to love myself. I am retired, but I still have purpose. I am a widow but there is still love out there for me. My body is fragile but as long as I have breath, anything is possible. Age is just a number so the fun has just begun. I am a senior citizen who is deserving of love. I decided to love myself. I have wrinkles but I have grown to embrace them. I don’t move around the same way I did 20 years ago but I believe that the sky's the limit. I will not wait on man’s approval, I decided to love myself. I will spray my sweet perfume. I will turn on soft music and rock to the tune. I will buy fresh roses and scatter love all around. I will buy food, chocolates and sweet wine, I will dine with me, myself and I. I d...

Contributed: Myrtle and Peter Davis, parents of seven children who have been married for 44 years! Welcome back to our captivating series, "Everlasting Love," where every Wednesday in February, we shine a spotlight on couples who've shared the journey of marriage for 40 years and beyond. Today, let's immerse ourselves in the enchanting tale of Myrtle and Peter Davis, whose love story is as timeless as it is inspiring. Colliecia Wright/Media Intern Love isn't merely a word; it's a verb — an action that speaks volumes louder than any declaration. It's the unwavering commitment to show up for each other, especially when life throws its curveballs. And Myrtle and Peter? Well, they've perfected the art of love during their 44-year adventure together. From the heart of Kingston, Jamaica; this dynamic duo has built their union on the sturdy foundation of three Cs: Commitment, Communication, and Conflict resolution. With seven beautiful children (fou...

Image: FreePik.com Jamaica is currently observing Safer Sex Week from February 11 to 17, 2024. In this article, we delve into the topic of sex in senior years, exploring how older adults can cultivate a healthy sex life regardless of their age. We'll hear from seniors sharing their experiences with sex, and medical experts will provide essential details on the practice of maintaining a healthy and enjoyable sex life. Colliecia Wright/Media Intern Awkward!!! As a 21-year-old, contemplating seniors engaging in sex or even discussing the topic with my grandmother, that’s the word that comes to mind. I eagerly anticipate a future with a healthy sex life, but I hadn't considered how it might evolve as we enter our senior years. This research opened my eyes to the fact that ageing does not diminish the need for intimacy and connection. While physical and emotional changes may occur, the desire for fulfilling relationship experiences remains. Relationship and Marriage Counsel...