Author: gcamera@thedigitalhub.com

VR Workshop With The Digital Hub’s D8 Surfers Club

On Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024, Smart D8 supported The Digital Hub in the delivery of a Virtual Reality Workshop with the D8 Surfers Club in the Learning Studio at the Digital Depot from 10 am until 12 pm.

This workshop was lead by the tutor Barry Haughey, who is a digital artist, XR coah, STEAM educator and the founder of HoloGen.

The D8 Surfers Club

The D8 Surfers Club holds a special place at The Digital Hub, having nurtured digital literacy and connectivity among local residents since its inception in 2015. What began as a tutor-led class, where local residents with limited exposure to communication tools and the internet, has evolved into a vibrant community hub where members gather weekly to share knowledge, experiences and camaraderie, while discovering how digital technologies can benefit them in their everyday lives.

Unlocking the Potential of Virtual Reality: A Gateway to Ageing Well

In today’s fast-paced world, technology continues to revolutionize every aspect of our lives. One innovation that is gaining increasing attention is Virtual Reality (VR). Beyond its entertainment value, VR holds immense potential to enhance the quality of life.

Even though VR is often associated with the younger generation, its benefits for older adults are equally profound. In fact, one of the key advantages lies in its ability to combat social isolation. As individuals age, factors such as mobility limitations or the loss of loved ones can lead to feelings of loneliness and detachment. However, VR offers a lifeline by providing opportunities for social interaction and connection. Through virtual meetups and collaborative activities, older adults can forge new friendships and reignite their sense of belonging.

VR serves as a powerful tool for cognitive stimulation because, by immersing themselves in interactive VR experiences, older adults can sharpen their cognitive skills, enhance their memory, and maintain mental acuity. Furthermore, VR holds promise in promoting physical wellbeing among older individuals thanks to virtual fitness programs and interactive games. Participants can then engage in low-impact exercises that improve balance, flexibility, and coordination.

VR Workshop with the D8 Surfers Club

The workshop aimed to onboard everyone in getting set up and started with VR experiences given the fact that for many members of the club this was their fist time using a VR headset. The tutor taught participants the basics and made sure that the equipment was comfortable for each user.

The topics covered during the workshop were:

• What is VR technology and what are its key features and capabilities?;
• How do you use the equipment comfortably and safely?;
• The importance of taking a break;
• Visiting different parts of the world with Google Earth in VR;
• Stepping inside a museum;
• Playing an immersive game.

Through engaging demonstrations and hands-on activities, attendees had the opportunity to explore a variety of immersive experiences firsthand, gaining valuable insights into this cutting-edge technology.

By embracing VR technology, the D8 Surfers Club broke free from the constraints of age and experienced a newfound sense of vitality and exploration.

Supporting Dublin 8 Community: Enhancing Residents’ Health & Wellbeing

As Spring approaches, Smart D8 eagerly continues its mission to promote health and wellbeing in Dublin 8, envisioning these efforts as opportunities for residents to flourish much like the blossoming of flowers in springtime. Following three successful months dedicated to fostering healthy food and eating and physical health and wellbeing, our focus in April shifts to the theme of successful and positive ageing.

April Focus: Successful & Positive Ageing

Recognizing the significance of successful and positive ageing in enhancing the quality of life, Smart D8 embraces a multidimensional approach aimed at expanding healthy and functional years in individuals’ lifespan.

We acknowledge the importance of different factors, such as physical health, mental health and social involvement, in defining successful and positive ageing. Therefore, conscious of the vital role of social engagement, Smart D8 is delighted to initiate the month by supporting three esteemed organizations deeply committed to this cause in Dublin 8:

1) Robert Emmet CDP/SICCDA – ‘Knitting’ Classes

Smart D8 will support Robert Emmet CDP/SICCDA in the delivery of ‘Knitting’ classes, recognizing knitting as a therapeutic activity that promotes both physical and mental wellbeing. Participants will have the opportunity to enhance fine motor skills, alleviate arthritis symptoms, and foster social connections in a friendly, supportive environment.

Dates: April 8th and 15th

Time: 11 am – 1 pm

Location: SICCDA (South Earl Street)

2) The Digital Hub – ‘Virtual Reality’ Workshop with the Digital Hub’s D8 Surfers Club

The D8 Surfers Club has been running at The Digital Hub since 2015. It started life as a tutor-led class, where local residents were guided in the discovery of how digital technologies could benefit them in their everyday lives.

In April, Smart D8 will offer The Digital Hub’s D8 Surfers Club the chance to experience the world of virtual reality technology. Through interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities, participants, who are all older people in the Liberties, will explore the possibilities of VR technology and its potential for entertainment and education.

Dates: April 23rd

Time: 10 am – 12 pm

Location: The Learning Studio at The Digital Depot (The Digital Hub)

3) Creative Life/MISA/SJH – ‘Artist in Residence Series’ & ‘Bealtaine Festival Event in MISA’

The Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing (MISA) at St James’s Hospital is a state-of-the-art-facility for integrated clinical services and a hub for world-leading research in ageing. Creative Life is one of four pillars within MISA and, since 2017, it has designed, developed and collaborated with many partners and arts & health programmes based on international best practices in this emerging sector. 

This year, MISA will collaborate with Smart D8 to deliver the ‘Artist in Residence Series’ over April and May 2024. This series will offer older adults the opportunity to engage in creative workshops designed to inspire and enrich their lives.

Additionally, Smart D8 will contribute towards a ‘Bealtaine Festival Event in MISA’, celebrating creativity and arts among Dublin 8 residents.

Stay Engaged, Stay Updated

Smart D8 is committed to supporting initiatives aimed at enriching the health and wellbeing of the Dublin 8 residents.

If you would like our assistance in organizing and delivering a health and wellbeing event, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@smartd8.ie.

Introduction

Since 2013, The Change For Life is a wellbeing programme that has enabled people across the city to improve their health and wellbeing. The programme adopts a holistic approach to improving health and wellbeing, encouraging participants to look after their mental and physical health while providing important social outlets for many people in our communities.

This year, this 8-week initiative took place from January until March 2024, and was delivered in different areas of the city, mostly in Dublin 8: Fatima, Dolphin House, Rialto, Bluebell, and Inchicore. The programme offered a comprehensive regimen of fitness activities and health education.

Partnerships and Support

The Change For Life Programme is the result of a dynamic partnership between Fatima Groups United (Family Resource Centre) and Dublin City Council Sports Partnership.

This year, the programme was also supported by Smart D8, HSE Health and Wellbeing, and CDETB. This collaborative effort ensured a holistic approach to health promotion and community development.

Objectives and Focus Areas

The primary objectives of the programme were to foster holistic wellbeing, promote healthy lifestyle choices, and encourage community engagement. By targeting areas such as physical health, mental health, and emotional resilience, the programme aimed to empower participants to make sustainable changes in their lives. People were encouraged to think about health and fitness in a broad sense.

To involve the participants in all the elements of the programme, a variety of activities were offered:

• Health assessment and weight management advice;
• Nutrition and cooking classes to promote awareness regarding healthy food and eating;
• Exercise classes such as yoga, circuit training, tai-chi, reflexology, pickleball, aerobics, pilates, aqua, dancing, and zumba.

Participant Diversity and Engagement

This year, 249 individuals aged 2 – 90, took part in the programme!

The initiative catered to individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. From underactive adults to minority groups and homeless individuals, Change For Life embraced inclusivity and diversity. Sessions were tailored to accommodate varying needs, ensuring equal access to health-promoting activities.

Programme Highlights

Over the course of the 8-week programme, participants engaged in a range of activities including:

• Pre-assessments (height, weight, BMI, measurements, blood pressure);
• More than 40 weekly exercise classes to avail of;
• One to one advice session and support;
• Re-assessments at the end of the programme;
• Celebration and graduation open to all participants and supporters.

Impact and Results

Pre-assessments revealed prevalent issues such as obesity and high blood pressure among participants. However, post-assessments showed significant improvements, including reductions in BMI, weight loss, and better blood pressure management.

Youth Involvement and Education

In addition to adult-focused activities, the programme included sessions tailored for children in crèches, preschools, and after-school programs. Through interactive sessions and engaging activities, children learned fundamental movement skills and developed a greater appreciation for physical activity.

Graduation and Community Celebration

The culmination of the programme was marked by a celebratory event where participants were recognized for their achievements and could then look forward with a healthier perspective on the year ahead. Awards were presented to individuals who demonstrated commitment, progress, and community involvement. The event served as a testament to the power of collective effort and community support in achieving wellness goals.

Conclusion

The Change For Life Programme exemplifies the transformative impact of community-led initiatives in promoting health and wellbeing. By fostering collaboration and inclusivity, Fatima Groups United and its partners have provided residents with the tools and support needed to embark on a journey towards healthier living. As the classes continue all year round beyond their initial timeframe, their legacy of resilience and empowerment will endure, inspiring positive change for years to come.

Love Your Heart Event at St Andrew’s Community Centre

On Wednesday, February 14th, 2024, Smart D8 supported the Love Your Heart event at St Andrew’s Community Centre from 10 am until 2 pm.

This event was also supported by Dublin City Council, Dublin South City Partnership, Rialto Development Association, Rialto Primary Care Centre, and the Dublin 8 Community Health Project based in F2 Centre.

Love Your Heart – Love Your Health – Love Yourself

Since its inception in 2017, Love Your Heart has blossomed into a free annual event at St. Andrew’s Community Centre, aiming to inspire individuals to prioritize their health, all while harnessing the spirit of Valentine’s Day.

At the core of Love Your Heart is the mission to foster community health using holistic care. Every year the event offers attendees a day filled with opportunities for connection and self-care, bringing people together in a community setting to promote healthy living choices.

Variety of Health-Focused Activities To Celebrate Health

Throughout the day, a diverse range of activities aimed at promoting community health and wellbeing were offered:

• Blood Pressure Checks:  the Irish Heart Foundation’s mobile unit allowed attendees to monitor their blood pressure, promoting awareness and proactive management of cardiovascular health.
• Informational Stands: cardiovascular health and quitting smoking (HSE’s stand), innovative solutions for health and wellbeing challenges (Smart D8’s stand), community health initiatives in Dublin 8 (Fatima Groups United’s stand and St Andrew’s stand).
• Healthy Smoothie Demonstrations: attendees learned how to create nutritious and delicious smoothies, empowering individuals to make healthier dietary choices.
• Cardiac Arrest Response Demonstrations: attendees gained essential life-saving skills with demonstrations on how to respond to cardiac arrest situations and effectively use a defibrillator.
• Holistic Therapies: attendees experienced relaxation and rejuvenation with a variety of complementary holistic therapies, including Indian Head Massage, Reiki, Reflexology, Back Massage, Acupuncture, and more.
• Nail Painting and Tarot Readings: attendees explored spiritual connections through tarot readings and pampered themselves through nail painting sessions.
• Café Setting with Light Refreshments: attendees enjoyed light refreshments in a cozy café atmosphere, promoting social interaction and companionship on a day that may feel isolating to some.

Growing Community Engagement

By offering these diverse activities, the event aimed to create an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals could prioritize their health and connect with their community.

Love Your Heart has seen steady growth in attendance year after year, with over 70 attendees recorded this year.

Beyond being a one-time event, Love Your Heart serves as a catalyst for ongoing community connection and support. Through word-of-mouth communication and networking opportunities, the event fosters a culture of mutual care and wellbeing.

In essence, Love Your Heart offers the community a chance to come together, celebrate wellness, and reaffirm the bonds of camaraderie and self-love using Valentine’s Day as an inspiration to reconnect with oneself and others.

Smart D8 Continues To Empower Community Health & Wellbeing in Dublin 8

As we step into the second month of the year, Smart D8 is thrilled to maintain its commitment to supporting organizations in Dublin 8 that strive to enhance the health and wellbeing of the community. Following the successful launch of the new year with initiatives centred around healthy food and eating classes, which will continue until March, our focus in February shifts towards promoting physical health and wellbeing.

February Focus: Promoting Physical Health & Wellbeing

In the pursuit of a holistic approach to community health and wellbeing, Smart D8 recognizes the pivotal role that physical health and wellbeing play in fostering a thriving and resilient society.

Physical health and wellbeing are essential for maintaining a healthy body and a healthy mind, and for reducing the prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues.

Therefore, we are excited to announce our support for the following organizations:

1) St Andrew’s Community Centre – ‘Love Your Heart’ Initiative

Smart D8 is honoured to support such an inspiring initiative such ‘Love Your Heart’. Since its inception in 2017, it has been a way to encourage people to think of their health by bringing people together in a community setting to promote healthy living choices and looking after oneself.

This will be achieved by offering on the day a range of complementary holistic therapies, several informational stands covering a variety of health-related topics, demonstrations on how to make healthy juice, and free blood pressure checks to prevent heart-related issues.

This Initiative is also supported by Dublin City Council, Dublin South City Partnership, Rialto Development Association, Rialto Primary Care Centre, and the Dublin 8 Community Health Project based in F2 Centre.

Date: 14/02/2024

Time: 10 am – 2 pm

Location: St Andrew’s Community Centre

2) Fatima Groups United – ‘Change For Life’ Programme

Smart D8 is happy to keep supporting Fatima Groups United as they continue their ‘Change For Life’ Programme, empowering individuals to embrace a healthier outlook on life through various activities. We are excited to be part of this journey by supporting the delivery of dance classes.

Dance is not just a form of exercise, it is a joyful and expressive way to stay active and boost overall wellbeing while promoting group cohesion.

This Programme is also supported by Dublin City Sport And Wellbeing Partnership, The Family Resource Centre, CDETB, Dolphin House, Sport Ireland and HSE.

Dates:

19/01/2024

26/01/2024

02/02/2024

09/02/2024

16/02/2024

23/02/2024

01/03/2024

Time: 10 am

Location: F2 Centre Fatima

The Power Of Community Engagement

Smart D8 firmly believes in the transformative power of community engagement to drive positive change. By actively supporting programs that promote health and wellbeing, Smart D8 aspires to create a ripple effect that extends beyond individuals, benefiting the entire community.

Our commitment to supporting organizations dedicated to helping each other and promoting health and wellbeing remains steadfast. One initiative a time, we hope to foster positive outcomes for community health and wellbeing.

If you would like our assistance in organizing and delivering a health and wellbeing event, please do not hesitate to contact us at  info@smartd8.ie.

Smart D8 Workshop at Inchicore College of Further Education’s Health and Wellbeing Week

Overview

On Thursday, January 18, 2024, Smart D8 conducted an engaging and dynamic workshop from 11 am to 12 pm with students at Inchicore College of Further Education as part of its Health and Wellbeing Week. This annual event, dedicated to promoting health and wellbeing, featured a diverse schedule of activities throughout the college. Topics covered during the week included Blue Monday, stress management, self-care, safe sex, fitness, kindness, active consent, laughter yoga, meditation, and more.

Smart D8 Workshop 

The Smart D8 workshop aimed to facilitate interactive discussions about the health and wellbeing challenges faced by students in the D8 community. The session sought to understand their needs and explore potential solutions through the Smart D8 initiative. The format encouraged active participation and collaboration, starting with a brief presentation on Smart D8 followed by an open discussion using the Jamboard.

Fifteen students from Psychology and Social Studies Courses attended the workshop and were divided into four groups. Each group addressed four key questions:

1. What are your health and wellbeing challenges as students in the D8 community?
2. What are your health and wellbeing needs as students in the D8 community?
3. How do you think Smart D8 could help address these challenges and needs?
4. What questions would you ask in a survey to measure the impact of the Smart D8 health and wellbeing initiatives on people’s health and wellbeing?

Key Discussions

Health and Wellbeing Challenges

Students pinpointed a range of challenges during the workshop, including the absence of community centers or mental health services, concerns about antisocial behavior in the area, inadequate ventilation in classrooms, restricted facilities for food preparation, the lack of healthy food options or affordable meals, and difficulties accessing medical centers with lengthy waiting lists. Additionally, they highlighted insufficient language support for non-native English speakers and noted the community’s resistance to change, expressing a desire to preserve the historical significance and origins of the area.

Health and Wellbeing Needs

The identified needs included more affordable accommodations, additional time in communal areas, increased breaks between classes, clearer instructions and deadlines from teachers, a cleaner canteen environment, more classrooms, enhanced group activities, access to a gym, greater attention to physical exercise and nutrition, and expanded options for healthy lunch choices.

Smart D8’s Role 

Students expressed the belief that Smart D8 could advocate for their needs, assist in overcoming challenges, and contribute by gathering data to inform decision-making.

Conclusion

The students engaged in lively discussions, providing valuable insights and feedback. The workshop concluded with a fruitful discussion of ideas written on the Jamboard, showcasing the students’ enthusiasm and proactive approach. Smart D8 looks forward to continued collaboration with Inchicore College in the future.

Empowering Community Health & Wellbeing in 2024: A New Beginning

As we bid farewell to the old and usher in the new, Smart D8 extends warm wishes for a year filled with joy, growth, and above all, good health to our incredible community. As previously hinted towards the end of last year, Smart D8 is now embarking  on an exciting journey to empower community health and wellbeing throughout 2024.

A Comprehensive Initiative

Our commitment to fostering a healthier and happier community is taking shape through comprehensive health and wellbeing initiatives, forged in collaboration with various esteemed organizations across Dublin 8. The time has come for these initiatives to unfold, and we are delighted to share the details of our inaugural focus.

January Focus: Promoting Healthy Food & Eating

Smart D8 is thrilled to commence this journey with a dedicated focus on promoting healthy food and eating habits. We firmly believe that a foundation of good nutrition lays the groundwork for overall wellbeing. Therefore, from January until March, we are excited to announce our support for two outstanding organizations:

1) Fatima Groups United – ‘Change For Life’ Programme

We will be actively supporting Fatima Groups United in the delivery of nutrition classes as part of their ‘Change For Life’ Programme. These classes aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed, health-conscious choices regarding their diet and nutrition.

This Programme is also supported by Dublin City Sport And Wellbeing Partnership, The Family Resource Centre, CDETB, Dolphin House, Sport Irland and HSE.

Dates:

18/01/2024

25/01/2024

01/02/2024

08/02/2024

15/02/2024

22/02/2024

29/02/2024

07/03/2024

Time: 5:30 pm

Location: F2 Centre Fatima

2) Robert Emmet CDP/SICCDA – Cooking On A Budget Classes

We will be actively supporting Robert Emmet CDP/SICCDA in the delivery of ‘Cooking On A Budget’ classes. These classes aim to teach individuals practical skills to create healthy food and affordable meals.

Dates:

29/01/2024

12/02/2024

19/02/2024

26/02/2024

04/03/2024

11/03/2024

18/03/2024

25/03/2024

Time: 10 am – 12 pm

Location: SICCDA (Earl Street)

Stay Connected, Stay Informed

Smart D8 is committed to keeping our community informed and engaged. Throughout the year, we will provide regular updates on our website, ensuring you stay in the loop about upcoming initiatives and events designed to enhance the health and wellbeing of our cherished Dublin 8 residents.

If you would like our assistance in organizing and delivering a health and wellbeing event, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@smartd8.ie.