As part of the institutional commitment to comprehensive education and university social responsibility, the UMECIT Extension Coordination, Chitré Campus developed a social practice in the Lions Home for the Elderly of Azuero, with the participation of students from the Bachelor of Social Work, who promoted activities aimed at the well-being and support of the elderly population.

The day was led by the students Fatima Govea, Jenifer Cordoba and Jose Mendoza, under the tutelage of the Mgter. Anielka Samaniego and with the support of the Social Work team. During the activity, social, cultural, and recreational spaces were developed aimed at strengthening coexistence, intergenerational exchange, and the cognitive, emotional, and motor stimulation of the residents.

Likewise, the students put into practice skills specific to their professional training through the application of group intervention tools, participant observation, empathy and active listening, creating spaces for conversation, reading and exchange of life stories that favored the emotional well-being of the older adults.

Among the main results achieved was the active participation of the residents in the activities, reflected in expressions of joy, interaction, and a strengthening of social bonds. Beyond recreational activities, this experience represented an exercise in validation, respect, and recognition of a population that has contributed significantly to building society.

Social practice reaffirms the commitment of Social Work to the care of vulnerable populations and demonstrates the importance of generating educational experiences that strengthen both professional skills and the human sensitivity necessary for the ethical and committed practice of the profession.

With initiatives like this, UMECIT continues to promote learning spaces linked to social responsibility, university extension and the training of professionals committed to the well-being and development of communities.